Biodiversity is the collection of life that makes up our natural world.
This includes the variety of plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms that work together to create healthy, balanced ecosystems that sustain life.
Biodiversity is important because it supports everything in nature that we need to survive and has a direct impact on our health and well-being. It provides food, fresh water, shelter, energy and medicine. Biodiversity also supports business and recreational activities that contribute to the economy.
What are the five greatest threats to biodiversity?
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Habitat loss and degradation:
When wildlife habitats are destroyed, they can no longer provide the essential food, water and shelter that species need to survive.
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Rising temperatures and increased extreme weather events are outpacing many species’ ability to adapt, leading to sharp population declines.
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Pollution:
Contaminants in air, soil and water disrupt ecosystems and threaten the survival of species within them.
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With no natural predators, invasive species outcompete native flora and fauna, reducing biodiversity, disrupting food webs and weakening ecosystem resilience.
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Excessive harvesting of wild plants and animals depletes populations, taking more from nature than it can sustainably offer.
Ducks Unlimited Canada’s approach:
Innovative solutions to protect biodiversity:
- Shaping sustainable policies.
- Restoring critical landscapes.
- Advancing research and technology.
- Empowering future conservation leaders.
Our work safeguards ecosystems, supports species and delivers lasting results for nature and people.
Stories about biodiversity
Coming of age on the edge of the ocean: how moving sediment benefits juvenile salmon
Juvenile salmon need spaces to grow into the mature fish they will become; ready to take on the saltwater ocean, and eventually return to their freshwater spawning grounds. But these transitional spaces are challenging to find.
Restoring marshes, reviving histories: a vision for the Fraser River Estuary
Bringing together history, science, and Indigenous knowledge, new research has the potential to reshape the way we approach marsh restoration in the Fraser River Estuary.
Mayook Marsh: A win for wildlife and water
Restoration enhancements add 30 years of wetland resilience, supporting at-risk species like western painted turtles, Columbia spotted frogs, and migratory birds.
Conservation that’s on the money
Iconic Canadian wildlife show why they’re worth the investment.
More ecosystems where we are making an impact
Our conservation efforts impact diverse areas across the entire country—including your community.
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