The United Nations has declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB). Throughout the year initiatives will be organized to disseminate information, promote the protection of biodiversity and encourage organizations, institutions, companies and individuals to take direct action to reduce the constant loss of biological diversity worldwide. Countdown 2010 works at governmental level by monitoring countries’ responses to the 2010 Biodiversity Target and at local level by mobilising local actors that take concrete actions. In only a few years of activity, Countdown 2010 has been able to mobilize an increasing number of actors ranging from local authorities and businesses to civil society organizations. With a powerful network of more than 900 Partners, Countdown 2010 is one of the leading initiatives mobilizing action for the 2010 Target.
Through its wide and well-established network, Countdown 2010 will be a key global actor for IYB in Europe and around the world. Countdown 2010 Partners will provide one of the main information channels and will be a major vehicle for reaching target groups worldwide. Objectives of IYB Raise awareness of the importance of conserving biodiversity for human well-being and promote understanding of the economic value of biodiversity Enhance public knowledge of the threats to biodiversity and means to conserve it Engage an increasing number of people - Celebrate the achievements by governments and Countdown 2010 Partners Report on possible failures to achieve the Target - Use momentum to trigger even more action for biodiversity Begin to communicate the post-2010 target(s). UN Secretary General Welcome Message for the 2010 International Year of Biodiversity from CBD on Vimeo. More information at: Countdown 2010 website www.cbd.int
