Foreign Minister on International Day for Biological Diversity

Vienna, 21 May 2008 - "Today, maintaining biological diversity is more important than ever. Biodiversity and functioning ecosystems are indispensable in permanently safeguarding food for a growing world population. A diverse spectrum of cultivated plants and agricultural crops are a prerequisite for adjusting to changing environmental conditions. This capability is more important than ever, particularly in view of climate change - this is clearly demonstrated by the current food crisis", stated Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik, commenting on the International Day for Biological Diversity on 22 May.

Austria is a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity and is thus committed to protecting and effectively managing biodiversity. "We must counter biodiversity’s further destruction through long-term programmes to reduce poverty. What is necessary is not the pursuit of short-term economic goals and individual interests but a far-sighted, careful policy," asserted Plassnik.

Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) supports partner countries in the sustainable use of their natural resources. Important principles underlying these efforts are cooperation with local communities, the promotion of indigenous species and the strong involvement of women. "All our programmes and projects are examined for their impact on biological diversity and for more appropriate alternatives. We attach great importance to innovative approaches highlighting the benefits of biological diversity to poor population groups and the traditional knowledge of them. Maintaining and using biodiversity is closely intertwined with the reduction of poverty," stated Plassnik. ADC is, for instance, promoting the preservation of native species of bees in the Himalaya and Hindu-Kush regions. Bee-keeping increases the income of the local population, while indigenous bees, which are threatened by extinction, are simultaneously preserved by means of specially adapted procedures.

Research, too, plays an important role in maintaining biodiversity. Among other things, Austria supports the World Bank’s Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). The fifteen international agricultural centres examine and develop higher-yield species. New, environmentally friendly technologies protect soil and water resources, preserve biodiversity and prevent the expansion of cultivated areas. "This is not only beneficial to developing countries, but ultimately benefits us all," concluded the Foreign Minister.

Contact:

Federal Ministry for
European and International Affairs
Press Department
Tel.: ++43 (0) 50 1150-3262, 4549, 4550
Fax: ++43 (0) 50 1159-213
E-Mail: abti3(at)bmeia.gv.at