The increase in population in most countries, especially developing ones such as Malaysia, poses a serious threat to food security. With rapid population growth, the demand for food is expected to increase by 70 to 100 per cent in 2050. Thus, food security needs to be given serious attention as it is an important element in Malaysia’s economic growth in addition to meeting the basic needs of millions of its population.
Biodiversity sustainability is one of the important things that needs to be paid attention to so as to ensure food security. The link between biodiversity sustainability and food security is intricate and crucial. Biodiversity, which encompasses the variety of life on Earth, plays a significant role in ensuring food security in several ways. Firstly, through genetic diversity in agriculture. In this context, biodiversity in crops and livestock provides a diverse genetic pool. This diversity is essential for breeding programmes, enabling the development of crops and livestock with increased resistance to diseases, pests, and environmental stresses. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining consistent food production despite changing conditions.
Secondly, food security through pollination services. For example, many crops rely on pollinators such as bees, bats, butterflies, and birds for reproduction. Biodiverse ecosystems provide habitat for such pollinators, ensuring the successful pollination of plants. This, in turn, contributes to higher yields of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, at once enhancing food security.
Next, biodiverse ecosystems also act as biological pest control. It often include natural predators and parasites that help control pests in agricultural systems. This reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides, contributing to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.
In addition, biodiverse ecosystems through healthy soil and nutrient cycling. In this regard, biodiversity in soil, including various microorganisms and organisms like earthworms, contribute to soil health and fertility. Healthy soil support optimal plant growth, enhance nutrient cycling, and improve water retention. This, in turn, contributes to increased agricultural productivity and food security.
Apart from healthy soil and nutrient cycling, diversification of diets also contribute to biodiversity ecosystem. Biodiversity in agriculture allows for a diverse range of crops and livestock. This diversification is critical for human nutrition, as it ensures a variety of foods with different nutritional profiles. A diverse diet is essential for meeting nutritional needs and reducing the risk of malnutrition.
Furthermore, climate change resilience is crucial in biodiversity ecosystems. It can be more resilient to the impacts of climate change. A diverse range of crops and ecosystems provides a buffer against extreme weather events, changing temperatures, and shifting precipitation patterns, helping to ensure a stable food supply.
Besides the aforementioned, biodiversity ecosystems can be achieved through cultural and traditional knowledge. Indigenous and local communities often rely on diverse ecosystems for their food sources. Biodiversity sustains traditional food systems and practices, preserving cultural diversity and knowledge related to sustainable agriculture.
Lastly, biodiverse ecosystems assist in water management and purification. Wetlands, forests, and other ecosystems play a role in maintaining water quality and regulating water flow, which is essential for agriculture and food production.
Indeed, biodiversity sustains the foundation of our agricultural systems, contributing to resilient and productive food production. Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is integral to ensuring long-term food security in the face of global challenges such as climate change, population growth, and environmental degradation.
Community awareness is important in ensuring the sustainability of biodiversity continues to be preserved to ensure food security for the following generations. When individuals and communities are informed and engaged, they are more likely to take actions that contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Following are some key strategies to enhance community awareness. Firstly, through education and outreach programmes. For example, implement educational programmes at schools, community centres, and local events to inform people about the importance of biodiversity, the role of ecosystems, and the consequences of biodiversity loss. Workshops, seminars, and interactive activities can be effective in engaging community and conveying information.
Secondly, by conducting public awareness campaigns through various channels, including social media, community bulletin boards, and local newspapers. In this regard, make use of visually appealing materials and messages that are easy to understand, emphasising the connection between biodiversity and daily life.
Next, facilitate outdoor activities, nature walks, and eco-tours to provide direct experiences with local ecosystems. Hands-on experiences in nature can foster a deeper connection to biodiversity and encourage a sense of responsibility for its preservation.
In addition, get community members to involve in conservation projects such as tree planting, habitat restoration, and wildlife monitoring. Engaging people directly in conservation efforts creates a sense of ownership and responsibility for the local environment.
Lastly, establish partnerships with local communities, indigenous groups, and stakeholders to co-create conservation strategies. This should also take into consideration a respect for and incorporate local knowledge and traditions into biodiversity conservation efforts.
Indeed, by fostering a sense of connection and responsibility among community members, it becomes more likely that they will actively contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Effective community awareness campaigns consider the local context, involve diverse stakeholders, and empower individuals to be stewards of their environment.