Biodiversity and how important it is to protect it

Form 3 students. Foley’s school. Limassol (Cyprus)

From ghost nets to increased climate changes,it would be an understatement to say that our precious biodiversity is in danger. According to several researches, of the many species entangled in ghost nets, 10 are considered threatened with extinction. If that alone,surprises you, brace yourself because you don’t even know half of it.

For those who don’t know, a ghost net is a fishing net that has been lost in the ocean. These very nets keep animals from movement, cause injuries and keep mammals & birds from visiting to the surface for air.

The Mediterranean Sea with its rich ecosystem and biodiversity is a crucial hub of life supporting resources. Biodiversity is essential for sustaining fisheries, providing livelihoods for coastal communities and supporting tourism and recreation.
However, our activities include overfishing, habitat destruction, polluting and putting ghost nets pose significant threats to the delicate biodiversity that we are so lucky to have.
However, do not pry, we still have hope. That is if we take action. From clean up efforts, implementing substantial fishing practices to using less harmful ghost nets like those made of rope, we can take conscious steps everyday to improve our
biodiversity. Plethora of rare and wonderful animals have lived in the Mediterranean Sea for billions of years now. But unfortunately now their natural habitat is at threat more than ever from overfishing, pollution and climate change. Due to this many of our beloved creatures are considered vulnerable and even threatened with extinction.

Furthermore, it seems as though people are actually taking action. To protect Mediterranean ecosystems and preserve fish opportunities, this group under the name ‘Ocean’ is founded in illegal fishing, tuna overfishing and more. Not to mention, negotiations are well underway to increase the global marine coverage of MPAs 30% by 2030.

With added efforts and increased awareness, we can all tackle this issue. As it is affecting us, our diets, our seas and our pristine wildlife.

Thanks to all of you for reading and it would be appreciated if you could donate to Mediterranean charity.com. This is your time to take action, as our wildlife is counting on us.