The International Day for Biological Diversity is observed every year on 22 May to highlight the importance of preserving the diversity of life on Earth and to raise awareness of the need to protect natural ecosystems. The day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 1993 to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity, one of the most important international agreements in the field of nature protection and sustainable development. The purpose of the observance is to remind us of the importance of preserving plant and animal species, their habitats, and the natural processes upon which life on the planet depends.
In the Republic of Croatia, the same date is also marked as Nature Protection Day, further emphasizing the importance of preserving natural heritage and sustainably managing natural resources. Croatia stands out for its remarkable diversity of habitats and species, thanks to its geographical position, climatic diversity, and well-preserved natural areas.
Biodiversity encompasses all forms of life — from microorganisms and plants to animals and their habitats — and represents the foundation of ecosystem stability. Balanced ecosystems enable numerous natural processes essential for everyday life, including water and air purification, nutrient cycling, climate regulation, and soil conservation.
Aquatic ecosystems are a particularly important component of overall biodiversity. Rivers, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater provide habitats for numerous organisms and connect different parts of the environment into a single integrated system. The quality and preservation of waters directly influence the diversity of life within them, as well as the condition of surrounding terrestrial ecosystems.
Despite their importance, natural systems are facing numerous pressures such as pollution, habitat degradation, climate change, and invasive species. For this reason, systematic environmental monitoring is essential for the timely detection of changes and the planning of protection measures. In this context, the Josip Juraj Strossmayer Water Institute, through systematic monitoring of surface and groundwater, also monitors biological indicators of water status, including communities of organisms that serve as indicators of the condition of aquatic ecosystems. Such research contributes to a better understanding of environmental changes and to the preservation of biodiversity in aquatic habitats.
Observing this day reminds us of the importance of joint action in nature protection, because by preserving biodiversity, we also safeguard ecosystem stability and the quality of life of future generations.
