The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. The Asean region is the only place on Earth where 20% of the world's vertebrate and plant species may be found. It is endowed with close to 30% of the world’s coral reef species, 60% of the world’s tropical peatlands, and more than 40% of the world’s mangrove areas. Asean has exceptionally high levels of species richness and endemism and is home to three of the world's 17 megadiverse countries as well as four biodiversity hotspots. A study found that many species are more threatened here than in other regions. In Southeast Asia, 45% of terrestrial and freshwater vertebrate species are critically endangered and need to be given priority for conservation.
There are many recommendations to protect and recover key species in the ASEAN. The first step is safeguarding the ecosystems that provide habitat for wildlife. Threatened species that live in protected areas and Asean Heritage Parks (AHPs) can be preserved by increasing area-based conservation. Strengthening wildlife protection policies and frameworks at the national, regional, and international levels. Combating wildlife trafficking, and reducing demand for wildlife products. Stakeholders from all 10 Asean member nations and beyond must work together to take strong, coordinated action in order to recover all important species.
Explore more on the biodiversity in ASEAN, click https://www.aseanbiodiversity.org/