Protecting biodiversity and securing our future: How IRRI champions diversity in rice systems 

By Bushra Humaira

As the world faces increasing climate challenges, biodiversity is emerging as one of most important components for future-proofing our planet. Biodiversity plays a critical role in sustaining life on Earth as it safeguards our ecosystem. On this International Day for Biological Diversity, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is working towards protecting and promoting biodiversity in rice-based agrifood systems to ensure global food security for half of the world’s population.

Why it matters

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth. This natural wealth forms the foundation of healthy ecosystems, resilient agriculture, and human well-being.

However, global biodiversity is under threat. Climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, monoculture farming, unsustainable practices, and industrial expansion are accelerating the loss of species and ecosystems. For agriculture, especially rice farming, it means that this loss can translate into lesser genetic resources, fewer crop options, increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, and degraded soil and water systems.