6 Ways You Can Support Biodiversity
May 22 is the International Day for Biological Diversity. Here are some simple ways you can help.
May 22 is the International Day for Biological Diversity. The holiday was established in 1993 by the United Nations to raise awareness of the vital role biodiversity plays in sustaining life on Earth.
Biodiversity — the variety of life on Earth — is essential for healthy ecosystems, food security, clean water, medicine, and climate resilience. But it's under threat from habitat loss, pollution, invasive species, climate change, and overexploitation.
This year’s theme is "Harmony with nature and sustainable development,” emphasizes the need for integrating biodiversity targets with sustainable development goals. We need all hands on deck — individuals, communities, and governments — working together to create harmony between people and the natural world. Here are some simple ways that you can support biodiversity today.
1. Plant native species
Adding native plants to your garden instantly increases biodiversity. Native plants provide food and habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife at every stage of life. And because they evolved to thrive in your region, they require much less water and maintenance than exotic varieties. Ask your local garden centre if they sell native plants (the more demand the better), go to native plant sales, or visit a native plant nursery near you. Not sure what plants to buy? Check out A Garden for the Rusty-Patched Bumblebee by Lorraine Johnson and Sheila Colla. It’s chock full of information on native plants and the types of gardens you can create.
2. Naturalize your lawn
Manicured lawns are biological dead zones — they’re not found in nature. Although lawns can serve a function, providing a soft surface for people and pets to play, many don’t get used. If you have a lawn, consider replacing at least some of it with native plants. Creating patches, borders, or habitat under trees will do wonders for biodiversity. Start with the sections that are not well suited for grass, such as shady areas. Plant a variety of vegetation types (grasses, flowers, shrubs, etc.) and plant them in clusters to attract a variety of pollinators, birds, and wildlife. The David Suzuki foundation offers some tips for converting your lawn.
3. Avoid using chemicals
The chemicals used on lawns and gardens (fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides) are harmful to people and the environment. They contaminate the soil and water, and they can poison insects, birds, fish, pets and children. This is yet another reason to garden with native plants, as they require less maintenance. Instead of using chemical fertilizer, you can feed your garden with compost, compost tea, worm casings, or blood meal. If you have stubborn insects to deal with, try an insecticidal soap instead of an insecticide.
4. Compost
Rather than using chemical fertilizers, compost your fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and yard waste. Adding compost to your garden enriches the soil by encouraging microorganisms and worms to thrive, improving soil drainage, increasing the soil’s ability to hold moisture and adding nutrients. This practice is also a great way to reduce the amount of waste you send to the landfill. A dual chamber tumbling composter is my go-to.
5. Buy local produce
When possible, purchase fruits and veggies from local farmers who don’t use chemicals — which are a major contributor to the biodiversity crisis. Look for farms that are certified organic, regenerative, biodynamic, or spray-free.
Local farmers also tend to grow a wider variety of crops, including heirloom varieties that are not typically grown on large-scale commercial farms. This practice helps preserve genetic diversity and contributes to overall agricultural biodiversity. Buying local also supports the local economy and creates less greenhouse gas emissions, as food doesn’t have to travel so far to reach you. And the less distance produce travels, the fresher and more nutritious it is.
To find sustainably grown, local produce, visit a farmer’s market or sign up for a CSA (Community Shared Agriculture) food box delivery. Visit the Canadian Organic Growers to find a CSA near you.
6. Remove invasive species
Invasive species are non-native species that disrupt ecosystems, outcompete native species, and lead to biodiversity loss. Here are some ways to help:
Volunteer at a local park, refuge or wildlife area to help remove invasive species.
Don't release aquarium fish and plants, live bait or exotic animals into the wild.
When using gear in water, clean off all mud, plants, and debris — and let it dry — before moving to a new location. This prevents invasive species from hitchhiking to another water body.
Avoid gardening with invasive plants like English Ivy and Periwinkle, which quickly take over a yard and outcompete other plants.
Don’t bring plants from home to the cottage or a natural area, as you can accidentally spread invasive species.
Dispose of yard waste properly through your local municipality, not in nearby natural areas.
These are just a few of the ways we can live in harmony with nature. Do you have other ideas or questions? Topics you’d like me to cover? Get in touch!
Yours for the Greener Good,
Brett