Biodiversity

Biodiversity, or biological diversity, includes not only the diversity of animal and plant species and micro-organisms, but also the genetic diversity within these species and the diversity of the ecosystems in which they evolve. This biological richness is essential not only for the proper functioning of ecosystems, but also for the well-being of humankind.

Biodiversity can be broken down into three main levels:

  1. Species diversity diversity: this refers to the variety of species present in an ecosystem. Each species plays a unique role in its environment, contributing to the balance and resilience of ecosystems.
  2. Genetic diversity Within each species, there is genetic variability that enables individuals to adapt to environmental changes. This diversity is crucial to the survival of species in the face of disease, climate change and other threats.
  3. The diversity of ecosystems An ecosystem is defined as a community of living beings interacting with each other and with their biotope. This diversity encompasses different natural habitats, such as forests, oceans, rivers and meadows.


The importance of biodiversity

Biodiversity plays a fundamental role in maintaining ecological balances. It contributes to vital ecosystem services such as :

  • Pollination Many crops depend on pollinators, such as wild bees, to produce fruit and vegetables.
  • Climate regulation Forests and oceans absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change.
  • Water purification Aquatic ecosystems filter pollutants and regulate the water cycle.
  • Food webs They link producers, consumers and decomposers. These networks depend on species diversity to maintain the balance and resilience of ecosystems.

Biodiversity is also an invaluable source of resources for food, medicine and other human needs. Many medicinal plants are derived from natural biodiversity, and research continues to explore new species for medical applications.


Threats to biodiversity

Unfortunately, biodiversity is under threat from a number of factors linked to human activities. The main threats include :

  1. Destruction of habitats The loss of habitats due to intensive agriculture or urbanisation alone is responsible for 70 % of species extinctions.
  2. Over-exploitation of resources Excessive exploitation of natural resources, such as fishing, compromises the functioning and renewal of ecosystems. Worldwide, 93 % of fish stocks are fully exploited or overexploited.
  3. Climate change This phenomenon modifies the life cycles of living organisms and the geographical distribution of species, thus impacting interspecific relationships.
  4. Pollution Air, soil and water pollution, as well as light and noise pollution, affect the environment and all the organisms that live in it, particularly through plastic pollution.
  5. Invasive alien species (IAS) The introduction of non-native species, whether intentional or unintentional, has caused the disappearance of many species, particularly from islands, and is threatening natural environments. This threat is particularly acute in overseas collectivities, where 74 % of invasive alien species have been recorded. Since 2018, national regulations have been put in place to deal with this problem.


Biodiversity conservation

To preserve biodiversity, it is essential to adopt sustainable practices and implement conservation policies. This includes :

  • Protecting natural habitats The creation of nature reserves and national parks to protect areas that are crucial for biodiversity.
  • Restoring degraded ecosystems Efforts are needed to restore damaged habitats and encourage the return of species.
  • Raising public awareness Informing and educating citizens about the importance of biodiversity and the actions they can take is crucial to mobilising collective efforts.

Biodiversity is a priceless treasure that deserves to be protected. Each and every one of us has a role to play in preserving it, whether through everyday actions such as reducing our consumption of plastic, or by supporting conservation initiatives. By acting together, we can help to safeguard biodiversity for future generations.

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At AVIGNON university, concrete actions:

  • Setting up a shared vegetable garden with the association Les Jardins du Colibri and Greater Avignon. It is managed sustainably, without the use of pesticides.
  • Installation of nesting boxes and shelters on both campuses to encourage the presence and reproduction of numerous species of birds (black swifts, titmice, kestrels) and mammals (squirrels, hedgehogs, etc.).
  • Creation of a working group on the management of green spaceswhich will propose sustainable management to encourage the diversity of plants and the species that depend on them, particularly pollinators.
  • Setting up training activities on biodiversity for staff.
  • UEO "Acting on our campuses An optional teaching unit (UEO) enabling students to take part in the development of these initiatives and become involved in preserving biodiversity. Each semester is devoted to a campus.

Awareness-raising initiatives are also in place, such as the naturalist drawing workshophosted by Léna Keohavong and organised as part of the Arts and Culture Days in Higher Education by the Department of Culture and Campus Life.

Mis à jour le 10 March 2025