Why is it Important?

The interlinkages between biodiversity and human health presents a broad range of opportunities for jointly protecting health and biodiversity, and for advancing human well-being

The interlinkages between biodiversity and health present a wide range of opportunities to jointly protect biodiversity and strengthen the health of humans, animals and plants, while advancing overall well-being and ecosystem resilience. 

Biodiversity encompasses the complex interactions among living organisms that shape and sustain balanced ecosystems. These ecosystems underpin the air, water and food systems upon which all species depend. There is no sustainable human, animal or plant health without biodiversity. It is also integral to key development sectors that influence health outcomes, including agriculture, biotechnology, pharmacy, veterinary sciences and plant sciences. 

Over the last decade, the diversity and complexity of the interconnections between biodiversity and health across species have become increasingly recognized. Nevertheless, further efforts are needed to deepen our understanding of the relationships between biodiversity, ecosystem services and the health of humans, animals and plants. Promoting co-benefits requires more integrated policies and implementation activities, strengthened collaboration across environmental, public health, veterinary and plant health sectors, and the systematic mainstreaming of biodiversity and health interlinkages into national strategies, policies, programmes, accounts and reporting instruments.