International Day for Biological Diversity 2026: Acting Locally for Global Impact​

On 22 May, the world marks the International Day for Biological Diversity — a global reminder of the essential role biodiversity plays in sustaining life, ecosystems, communities and economies. The Carpathian region joins this celebration by highlighting the importance of local and regional action for protecting nature and building a more resilient future.

Biodiversity is the foundation of healthy ecosystems. It provides clean air and water, fertile soils, food, climate regulation, pollination, recreation and the natural systems on which human well-being depends. Yet biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate due to pressures such as habitat loss, pollution, unsustainable land use, overexploitation and climate change. This loss threatens not only species and ecosystems, but also the resilience, livelihoods and quality of life of present and future generations.

This year’s theme — “Acting Locally for Global Impact” — strongly reflects the spirit of the Carpathian Convention. Across the Carpathians, often referred to as Europe’s wild heart, local communities, protected areas, scientists, youth, policymakers and civil society are taking action to conserve biodiversity, strengthen ecological connectivity, restore ecosystems and promote sustainable development.

These efforts are closely aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and its 23 global targets, as well as with the Carpathian Biodiversity Framework, which supports the translation of global biodiversity commitments into concrete regional and local action in the Carpathians.

**What can you do today?**

**Look and learn**
Explore biodiversity around you — in a local park, forest, river, garden or community. Learn more about native species, ecosystems and the importance of protecting them.

Connect and act
Join local or online initiatives supporting biodiversity action, including citizen science, habitat restoration, community events, nature monitoring, awareness campaigns or knowledge-sharing activities.

Share and inspire
Celebrate biodiversity by sharing your actions, stories, photos and ideas. Organize or join nature walks, information sessions, community gardens, photography or drawing competitions, or conversations that inspire action for nature. Use the hashtag #BiodiversityDay to amplify the message.

You can also use the materials from the CBD campaign toolkit to support and promote the global campaign.

Every local action matters. Together, local efforts across the Carpathians and beyond can create positive impacts far beyond individual communities — contributing to a more resilient, sustainable and nature-positive future for all.