Humans are working hard to reduce threats and to protect biodiversity. But, what is the best way to do that? There are at least a couple of theories and approaches. Two important concepts are conservation and preservation. The idea behind conservation is responsible use of natural resources so that humans don’t “run out” of resources like water that we might need in the future. Have you heard of programs where kids plant native trees? How about captive-breeding programs – where zoos try to raise animals that are threatened in the wild? All of these are great examples of conservation!

Conservation can begin with plants, animals, or water quality. Watch these videos on conservation to better understand what conservation is and what some people are doing to help conserve biodiversity in various areas.

Preservation is another idea. It is kind of like conservation – but not exactly. The idea behind preservation is to protect nature or wilderness areas by limiting human use and development. In the U.S. for example, the government set up the National Wildlife Preservation System to preserve wilderness areas. Another example would be preservation of habitats that are important endangered species such as the Qin Ling Mountains where pandas live!

Both conservation and preservation can play important roles in protecting biodiversity. Often, experts need to find strategies using lots of techniques that not only preserve biodiversity but also balance the needs of people who live nearby and may depend on those natural resources too. Learn about different ways that people all over the world are stepping up to protect our plants and animals and find out what you can do right at home to help!