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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is necessary for life to thrive on Earth.

Aldo Leopold, one of the great thinkers of conservation, observed more than half a century ago the importance of protecting species. "To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering," he wrote. Losing species is like throwing away one by one the engine parts of an airplane while flying.

Biodiversity is a major initiative of Conservation International.

Biodiversity conservation provides substantial benefits to meet immediate human needs, such as those for clean, consistent water flows; protection from floods and storms; and a stable climate. 

Curated by mokiethecat

Saving Life on Earth: A Discussion of Africa's Imperiled Wildlife
October 23, 2020

The Center protects global biodiversity by applying U.S. and international law to conserve imperiled species worldwide. Endangered wildlife knows no borders, and our work addresses the extinction crisis wherever it occurs.

Learn about our efforts to safeguard African wildlife, from iconic elephants and giraffes to unique pangolins and sea cucumbers. We need your support to combat the wildlife trade fueling these extinctions. Our International Director, Sarah Uhlemann, and International Legal Director, Tanya Sanerib, will share insights into this vital work.