The depletion of our genetic resources is currently underway and there is an urgent need to act before it’s too late. It is crucial for each and everyone to unite as a global community and take immediate action. Together, we must work with a sense of urgency to ensure the continued survival of humanity as a whole. The ecological system despite its remarkable efforts to sustain life is facing significant challenges in maintaining the balance. The remarkable adaptations observed in plants and animals to survive in harsh conditions serve as evidence of this struggle. However, without a proper equilibrium of ecological factors, the very existence of life is at risk. Extensive research and careful observations have provided abundant evidence of the gravity of this critical issue. We have to act as One Family, work for our One Earth and have to find collective solutions to the challenges that confront all of us and have to continuously strive for a versy sustainable and self-sufficient One Future.
The loss of biodiversity and natural resources is an urgent call and a pressing issue with threats and challenges now seen and observed, worldwide. Biodiversity refers to the assortment of living organisms in a specific ecosystem and plays a crucial role in maintaining the micro-climate of the region, ultimately influencing macro-climates and contributing to the ecological balance. Unfortunately, the depletion of biodiversity is having adverse effects on the micro-climate leading to further ecological imbalances. The rapid decline of genetic resources within the ecosystems have been attributed to human interference and illegal activities in biodiversity-rich areas.
Numerous research studies conducted across different regions of our country have extensively examined the repercussions of biodiversity loss on ecosystems. These studies have presented compelling evidence highlighting the substantial consequences, including temperature fluctuations, alterations in humidity levels and disruptions within the food web. One noteworthy example demonstrating this phenomenon can be observed in grasslands and dry riverbeds where the disappearance of certain plant species has resulted in an increase in temperature and a decline in soil moisture. As a result, these changes have negatively impacted the growth and survival of other plant species in those particular areas. This phenomenon has been referred to as the “Thistle Effect Theory,” highlighting the cascading effects and interconnectedness within ecological systems.
Biodiversity loss has a direct impact on wind patterns. The reduction of plant species in grasslands has been observed to result in significant changes to wind patterns. The presence of a diverse range of plant species plays a vital role in establishing microhabitats that influence wind patterns. Conversely, the loss of these plant species leads to the disappearance of these microhabitats, ultimately causing alterations in wind patterns. Changes in the micro-climate and subsequent biodiversity loss are leading to the irreversible depletion of genetic resources which cannot be fully compensated for by scientific means. Genetic resources encompass the hereditary material found in plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms and hold immense potential for enhancing agricultural production, developing new medicines and even creating innovative industrial materials. However, once these genetic resources are lost, the opportunities they present for various sectors cannot be fully recovered or replicated. Nature is the most simple yet profound science which only unveils herself with time. Time is the most important commodity. This highlights the urgent need to protect and preserve biodiversity in order to safeguard these invaluable genetic resources and the myriad benefits they offer to humanity.
The loss of biodiversity is a very complex issue that has far-reaching impacts on the environment, society and economy. The global populations of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles have decreased by an average of 68% since 1970 due to human activities such as habitat destruction, overexploitation and climate change (much research has been done across the globe). This decline has disrupted the critical ecological processes such as pollination, seed dispersal, nutrient cycling and water purification. The decrease in pollinators like bees and butterflies for instance is leading to lower crop yields and food insecurity across the globe and now the continuous healthwaves making it an extremely challenging situation.
The IPBES has also reported that over 75% of the global land surface has been significantly impacted by human activities, resulting in biodiversity loss and the degradation of ecosystem services. Socially, the indigenous peoples and local communities of India, we are heavily reliant on biodiversity for our livelihoods, cultural practices and food security. The loss of biodiversity has impacted our traditional knowledge, social cohesion and overall well-being.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has reported that more than 1 billion people rely on fish as their primary source of protein. However, the unsustainable practices of overfishing and habitat destruction have resulted in significant declines in fish populations and marine biodiversity. This issue poses a threat not only to humanity but also to the people in the northern Himalayan region and worldwide, emphasizing our interconnected reliance on natural resources. Recognizing that we are all part of one global family and that the resources provided by nature are universal and should be shared responsibly is crucial. As inhabitants of this magnificent universe with only One Earth as our home, it is vital that we join forces and cooperate to establish a sustainable and self-sufficient future for present and future generations. By fostering a collective mindset and taking proactive steps, we can ensure the preservation of our invaluable resources and the well-being of all humanity. Understanding the significance of sustainable practices and actively implementing them is essential. Let us unite in our endeavors to safeguard our natural world and foster a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.
From an economic perspective, the IPBES estimates the value of ecosystem services provided by biodiversity, including pollination, pest control and water regulation to be in the range of $125-140 trillion per year. This underscores the significant economic costs associated with biodiversity loss. Industries such as agriculture, forestry and tourism which heavily rely on biodiversity are experiencing negative impacts due to its decline. For example, deforestation has resulted in reduced timber production and diminished opportunities for wildlife tourism, across regions. Given the gravity of these concerns, it is of utmost importance that we adopt proactive measures to address biodiversity loss and protect the invaluable ecosystems and services that nature provides. It is crucial to reframe our approach with a focus on sustainability, placing self-sufficiency as a key foundation for ensuring a sustainable future for our planet. By embracing sustainability, we can establish a framework that harmonizes human activities with the natural world, minimizing negative impacts and promoting the long-term well-being of both ecosystems and society. This entails adopting practices that conserve biodiversity, reduce resource consumption, promote renewable energy sources and prioritize the preservation of natural habitats.
Moreover, fostering self-sufficiency encourages the development of resilient communities capable of meeting their needs in a sustainable manner. This involves promoting local economies, enhancing food security through regenerative agriculture, supporting renewable energy initiatives and promoting circular economies that minimize waste and resource depletion. By integrating sustainability and self-sufficiency into our collective mindset and decision-making processes, we together pave the way for a future where human well-being and environmental preservation go hand in hand. It is our responsibility to safeguard the Earth’s biodiversity and ensure a sustainable legacy for future generations. The loss of genetic resources poses a significant challenge as their recovery is often difficult, if not impossible. Although science is capable of developing substitutes for certain resources, such as creating new crop varieties, the irreplaceable genetic diversity that has been lost cannot be fully restored.
In an era marked by the pressing issue of climate change and its wide-ranging implications, the resilience and adaptability of our indigenous millets shine through. Our traditional grains cultivated and still consumed as a part of our LiFE, have proven the ability to withstand the trials imposed by climate challenges and healthcare breakdown by providing the essential nutrients. It is important to note that the use of hybrid seeds while offering some benefits for a few years but in the long term, gradually disrupt the delicate balance of life sciences within the soil which cannot be decompensated till the next century. This imbalance will lead to the exploitation of soil microorganisms and ultimately result in a complete loss of fertility posing a severe threat to food insecurity and complete healthcare breakdown which increase malnutrition across our geographical regions.
Let us celebrate and support the timeless legacy of our indigenous millets as we forge a path towards a healthier, more resilient and sustainable world. The practice of traditional techniques and knowledge not only contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage but also holds immense potential for supporting further research, unveiling new findings and driving innovation in the most sustainable and self-sufficient manner, ensuring the long-term well-being of both ecosystems and communities. The preservation of biodiversity and protection of genetic resources are essential for ensuring the long-term survival of ecosystems and sustaining the resources necessary for human development. By implementing measures to safeguard biodiversity, we can contribute to conserving genetic resources and ensuring that future generations have access to the valuable genetic diversity that has been lost due to changes in the micro-climate. While challenges lie ahead, it is important to acknowledge the existence of hope and trust. Artificial interventions provide an opportunity for assisting nature in regenerating and restoring ecological balance but they require a systematic and well-planned approach. One such approach involves the creation of artificial dispersal mechanisms for seeds, promoting the regeneration of biodiversity. Additionally, the establishment of mycelial mats presents a sustainable process for enabling new growth even in adverse weather conditions resulting from climate change.
This precise procedure offers a means to overcome the challenges we face, regardless of whether we encounter rainfall or its absence, heatwaves or their absence. By implementing these interventions with careful consideration, we can actively contribute to the restoration of ecological equilibrium. It is through our deliberate efforts and commitment to sustainability that we can help nature recover and thrive, fostering resilience in the face of environmental challenges. It is vital for us to unite as a global family, working together to secure sufficient time for preserving and regenerating natural resources for the survival of future generations. Through collective efforts, as one unified family, we can slow down the climate crisis and provide humanity with the necessary time to adapt and thrive.
Elinor Organics urges the global community to come together as one unified family, recognizing that we all share and only have One Earth. We believe in establishing a solid foundation for a sustainable future that prioritizes the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. This serves as a powerful reminder that we are interconnected and must collaborate to tackle the pressing challenges we face at any given point of time. While time may be limited, we firmly believe that through collective action, we can overcome these challenges and create a brighter future for all. There is always a Ray of Hope that always shines bright no matter how hard the challenges are. Together, let our work resound with the strength and unity of humanity. Let our shared commitment to environmental stewardship echo across the globe. By joining forces and working together we can bring about positive change, safeguarding our planet for current and future generations. It is through this resounding roar of determination and collaboration that we can build a sustainable and thriving world.
We Preserve. Protect. Aware. Regrow
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