“Despite all our technological advances, we are completely dependent on healthy and vibrant ecosystems for our water, food, medicines, clothes, fuel, shelter and energy. Avoiding single use plastic, reducing food waste, reduced use of pesticides and fertilizers, protecting and planting trees etc. are the steps that can protect the biodiversity” – Elzineth Mrema, Acting Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biodiversity.
The 22nd of May every year, since 2001 is celebrated as the International Day for Biological Diversity. The theme of the year “Our solutions are in nature” emphasises the importance of working together at all levels to build a future of life in harmony with nature. 2020 is a year of reflection, opportunity and solutions. All of us have the opportunity to reflect on how we can “Build back better” to increase the resilience of nations and communities as we recover from this pandemic, According to the Convention of Biodiversity Press Release.
Rhino, Springboks, zebra, Elephant and lion [Biodiversity]
Given the current pandemic, the event was commemorated online for the first time ever, calling out for Ecosystem based solutions and mainstreaming biodiversity in economic sectors to address biodiversity loss, climate change and factors such as land degradation that has induced an ongoing damage on the health of our planet.
People participated from the major regions of the world laying emphasis on hope, solidarity and the importance of working together at all levels to build a future of life in coherence with nature
The world as we know is changing, highlighting our dependence on the natural world, more now than ever. We’ve radically transformed into a technological society that deems development as the definitive goal for the future but we’ve misplaced our roots in the process. What is truly fundamental though is that we have always been a part of nature, something we’ve always known deep down. The sooner we bridge our gap with it, the better will our lives flourish. The biodiversity of our planet is currently in a state of free fall, approaching collision but we must act now if we want to safeguard our future and lead a more fulfilling life that is in tune with nature’s principles.
Biodiversity is the bedrock of our own existence, we owe our lives to the years of evolutionary paradigms that have steered the course to our present lives. Without the interconnections playing out between each and every individual that is part of the global ecosystem we call Earth, the many facets of life we see today would be non-existent. With over millions of species across the planet, it is in our best interest to protect the countless ecosystems as it is ‘Life that supports Life’.
In the light of COVID 19, we must understand that the such infections are a result of massive devastation to wildlife habitats that increases our exposure to such pathogens. The only solution forward is to dive in to the root of the problems to so that we equip ourselves with the knowledge contained within nature itself that will teach us how healthy ecosystems function and what we can do lead a life that preserves it and the biodiversity we are ever dependent on.
Sharad Vats brings over three decades of rich safari experience across the Indian wilderness, leading a passionate team dedicated to delivering seamless and memorable wildlife journeys. With deep knowledge of jungle logistics—ranging from flora and fauna to experienced guides and skilled jeep drivers—he ensures that every safari is thoughtfully curated and effortlessly executed, offering guests an immersive and almost ethereal experience in the wild.
Over the years, Sharad has also spent extensive time assisting guests, curating personalized tours, and leading wildlife expeditions, combining operational excellence with a deep understanding of guest expectations.
Beyond tourism, he is an active contributor to the wildlife ecosystem. His initiatives include planting and maintaining thousands of trees, creating safe passages and corridors for tigers, and establishing solar-powered waterholes across Kanha and other national parks. He is equally committed to community development, supporting and adopting schools in nearby villages, reflecting a holistic approach to conservation and sustainable tourism.
