Despite all our technological advances, we depend entirely on a healthy and vibrant ecosystem for our water, food, shelter, and energy. Respecting, protecting, and repairing our biological wealth is essential to ensure a habitable ecosystem.

This International Day for Biological Diversity, the theme, Harmony with nature and sustainable development, connects protecting biodiversity with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showing that both agendas must advance together as they support one another.

If there is one thing that is rapidly disappearing from today’s urban landscape, it is the trees -- many of them being cut down relentlessly to make way for roads, buildings, dams and the likes. But what can we do about those that have miraculously escaped the axe, apart from hugging them? Mapping them! Yes, you read that right. Today, various tree mapping campaigns are on that is calling on everyone to help map the trees in your neighbourhood. This data is of immense importance for further studies on urban ecology. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your phone and get mapping...