Cities, Regions and Urban Biodiversity

> 1 August 2007

Biodiversity is the measure of the number, variety and variability of living organisms. It includes diversity within species, between species, and among ecosystems. The concept also covers how this diversity changes from one location to another and over time. Indicators such as the number of species in a given area can help in monitoring certain aspects of biodiversity. Biodiversity includes all organisms, from microscopic bacteria to more complex plants and animals. Biodiversity contributes to many aspects of human well-being, for instance by providing raw materials and contributing to health. Human actions, however, often lead to irreversible losses in terms of diversity of life on Earth.

Urban biodiversity is the biological diversity of urban areas. It is heavily influenced by the built environment and the economic, social and cultural dynamics of these densely populated places. Efficient urban biodiversity management is therefore of crucial importance.