"In the last decades biodiversity has been lost at an unprecedented rate mostly due to unsustainable human activities. There is no doubt that biodiversity is a very complex issue that cuts across different sectors of society. Consequently, biodiversity issues should be addressed in an integrated interdisciplinary manner. It is crucial that different disciplines and competencies are brought together so as to develop urgently needed solutions to address the global challenge of biodiversity loss. Since its early days, UNESCO has provided support and guidance to countries to help them conserve and sustainably and equitably use biodiversity. UNESCO's interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral action aims at setting standards, developing ethical frameworks and building capacity for efficient biodiversity governance. It focuses on addressing the educational, scientific, cultural and communication aspects of biodiversity in an integrated way." Extract from Foreword to "Biodiversity in UNESCO" by Mr Koïchiro Matsuura, Director-General of UNESCO

North Sikkim, India. © Discovery communications, Inc.