Terrestrial Biodiversity

Terrestrial biodiversity refers to the variety of species, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity found in terrestrial ecosystems. This diversity, which encompasses all groups of living organisms such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, is a fundamental element for the functioning of ecosystems and the continuity of natural processes. Terrestrial biodiversity safeguards the sustainability of both the natural environment and human societies through the ecosystem services it provides, either directly or indirectly.

Conservation and Sustainable Management of Terrestrial Ecosystems

In the Republic of Türkiye’s sustainable development policies, the conservation and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems are among the priority objectives. National strategies adopt science-based approaches to protect habitats, restore natural environments, and prevent biodiversity loss. Within this framework, the ecological integrity of natural areas is preserved, the risk of species extinction is reduced, and the sustainable use of ecosystem services is promoted. Policies aim to encourage ecosystem-friendly practices in areas such as agricultural activities, forest management, and land-use planning.

United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Biodiversity

Target 15 of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals encompasses the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. This target includes key components such as the sustainable management of forests, the prevention of desertification, the reduction of land degradation, and the protection of biological diversity. Target 15 also seeks to ensure the conservation of wildlife, the improvement of natural habitats, and the continuity of ecosystem services. In this context, the protection of biodiversity is supported through international cooperation and local-level initiatives.

Impacts of Biodiversity on Human Health

Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlight the critical role of biodiversity in human health. The healthy functioning of ecosystems plays a central role in meeting fundamental human needs such as clean water, air quality, and food security. Biodiversity also serves as the source of many medicines and medical products; the conservation of natural resources enables the development of innovative solutions in the healthcare sector. However, biodiversity loss can disrupt ecosystem balance, accelerate the spread of infectious diseases, and increase the risk of zoonotic illnesses. Therefore, biodiversity conservation strategies are also an important tool for public health.

Threats to Terrestrial Biodiversity

Terrestrial biodiversity faces numerous threats. Climate change, habitat destruction, changes in land use, pollution, overexploitation of resources, and invasive alien species are the primary factors driving biodiversity decline. These threats increase the rate of species extinction and lead to the disruption of ecosystem functions. The direct impacts of human activities disturb natural balances, causing ecosystems to fail in performing their essential functions. This situation poses serious risks both to biological diversity itself and to the services provided by ecosystems.