Biodiversity Conservation: Human-based Solution to Address Nature Crisis

In our rapidly changing world, biodiversity conservation has become an urgent priority as human actions impact our planet’s ecosystems. From deforestation and habitat destruction to pollution and over-exploitation of natural resources, these actions are driving biodiversity loss at an alarming rate. At Yunus Environment Hub, we recognise that addressing the triple planetary crisis facing our planet—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—requires not only acknowledging the destructive role of human activities but also actively pursuing innovative social business and circular solutions to mitigate these impacts and foster positive change. 

To bring awareness on this urgent topic we participated in the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) side event, “Biodiversity Conservation in Our Neighbourhood: Human-based Solution to Address Nature Crisis,” organized by The China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF). This event aimed to highlight the pivotal role of people’s engagement as a crucial solution for biodiversity conservation and address the interconnected challenges such as climate change and pollution through interventions from:  

• Ambrose Mbuvi, Social Business Consultant at Yunus Environment Hub 
• Dr Zhou Jinfeng, Secretary-General at China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) 
• Mr Ebrima Jarra, Executive Director at The Soil Solution 

Together the panel explored and showcased innovative, human-based solutions that can contribute to mitigating the urgent nature crisis. The event brought together like-minded organisations and individuals dedicated to finding actionable solutions to our environmental challenges. 

Here are a few measures we believe are crucial to achieve effective biodiversity conservation: 

1. Inclusive Circular Economy Models:Human consumption patterns, primarily linear and wasteful, significantly contribute to biodiversity issues. By keeping resources in circulation and minimising waste, circular models not only mitigate environmental degradation but also promote long-term resilience and resource efficiency. This shift represents a fundamental rethinking of traditional linear consumption patterns, offering a pathway towards a more sustainable and equitable future for both people and the planet.  

1. Regenerative Practices: Human-induced climate change and pollution are major drivers of biodiversity loss. According to the UNEP’s Global Environment Outlook (GEO-6) report, unsustainable agriculture, including deforestation and intensive farming practices, is a significant contributor to biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. It is critical to raise awareness and upskill large- and small-scale farmers with the tools and know-how to implement regenerative agriculture practices, such as agroforestry, crop diversification, and soil conservation.  By doing so, they can play an active role in helping reverse these trends by promoting biodiversity, enhancing soil health, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.  

1. Effective Policies: The UNEP’s Global Biodiversity Outlook 5 (GBO-5) report emphasizes the critical need for coordinated action from governments, the private sector, small businesses, communities, and individuals to address the global biodiversity crisis. By fostering partnerships and engaging diverse stakeholders, we can develop and implement policies that promote biodiversity conservation, enhance ecosystem resilience, and secure a more sustainable future for generations to come. 

Biodiversity conservation requires acknowledging and addressing the destructive impact of human actions. YEH is committed to leveraging the power of human-based solutions to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity for future generations, and actively engages in partnerships to protect our environment. We enable circular business transformation through our CirculaRise program offerings, aimed at facilitating the adoption of inclusive, circular strategies. Reach out to us if you are interested in working together or want more information on CirculaRise via info@yunuseh.com