The Leibniz Biodiversity Research Network has published this year's "10 Must-Knows". The network once again shows policymakers and society concrete ways in which biodiversity can be effectively conserved and sustainably used at local, national and European level, and how this can also protect the climate. Dr. Tonjes Veenstra, research associate in Research Area 3 "Syntax & Lexicon" at the ZAS, is one of the 64 lead authors.
Biological, socio-cultural and linguistic diversity are closely linked. Indigenous speakers in particular live in areas with the highest biodiversity. Their languages are carriers of knowledge and convey practices for the protection of natural habitats. However, indigenous languages are under threat from the same actors that are putting our biodiversity at great risk.
"The habitat of indigenous peoples is shrinking due to deforestation and exploitation. But it is not just the loss of biodiversity there that is worrying. Their languages, and therefore their knowledge of flora and fauna, are also highly endangered," says Tonjes Veenstra.
You can find more information on the "10 must-knows" here.