Biological diversity - An overview

Abstract

Despite the overwhelming importance of biodiversity and the growing demand for the genes and chemicals, biodiversity is being lost at alarming rates, largely as a result of human action enhancing degradation of biologically rich ecosystems like tropical rain forests, grassland and coral reefs. A positive global change was achieved at the Earth Summit in Rio, 1992, requiring all nations to take four basic steps: develop national strategies for conservation, establish a system of protected areas, begin to rehabilitate damaged ecosystems and integrate conservation policy into national decision making. The conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use, technology transfer, intellectual property rights, provision of financing and the principle of equitable sharing of benefits were also promoted. On the local scene, Israel is known for its rich natural vegetation and diversified species which contribute to the biological diversity and plant species population. Beyond the intrinsic value, the diversified plant population is an extremely valuable genetic source for improvement of agricultural crops and extraction of new drugs. The Israeli Gene Bank (IGB) was established to preserve the natural endowment, and is responsible for in-situ conservation, formation of gene banks and other related activities with emphasis on regional and international cooperation.