Biodiversity

Definition of Biodiversity as it relates to Environment, Urban Sustainability

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of living organisms, from genes to ecosystems, within and across geographic regions. It encompasses all forms of life on Earth, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as their interactions with each other and with their physical environment. Biodiversity is essential for the functioning of ecosystems, which in turn provide numerous services that are vital to human health, well-being, and economic development. These include provisioning services such as food, fuel, and fiber; regulating services such as water purification and climate regulation; cultural services such as recreation, education, and inspiration; and supporting services such as soil formation and nutrient cycling. Biodiversity is particularly important in urban areas, where it can help to mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization on human health and well-being, and contribute to the sustainability of cities by improving air and water quality, reducing heat island effects, enhancing community resilience, and promoting social cohesion.

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