International Day of Biodiversity 2014: Island Biodiversity

These ecosystems are the legacy of a unique evolutionary history and are irreplaceable treasures. Islands are especially susceptible to the effects of Climate Change due to their relatively small and closed ecosystems; it often takes just one small change that can have huge knock on effects that cannot be undone. Perhaps today, it is also fitting to remember John Donne’s quote, that ‘no man is an island’. We cannot function alone and separated from the natural world- we are inextricably linked to our ecosystems- they are the keys to our livelihoods, our economy, our well-being and cultural identity. Although today marks a special day for biodiversity, it is important to remember our connection to it, every day.