Sustain the Biocultural Diversity of Life

Nowadays, due to issues such as, climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, land conversion for development, spread of invasive species and extinction of species, the biodiversity of planet is being lost at an unprecedented pace. "We are actually witnessing the greatest extinction crisis since dinosaurs disappeared from our planet 65 million years ago." Not only are these extinctions irreversible, but they also posing a serious threat to our health and well-being.

But just as with biodiversity, the world is now undergoing a massive human-made extinction crisis of culture diversity.

Terralingua is an international non-governmental organization founded in 1996 by a group of committed individuals from different backgrounds who shared the beliefs that the diversity of life on earth is biological, cultural, and linguistic diversity. It committed to sustain the biocultural diversity of life through an innovative program of research, education, policy-relevant work, and on-the-ground action.

Terralingua has two fundamental purposes. First, is to explore the connections between linguistic and biological diversity and promote the awareness and better understanding of the links between them. They are seeking to "build bridges between groups and individuals working in support of the world's diverse peoples and their languages and cultures and those working to conserve species and ecosystems". To reach out and establish the partnerships to community-based groups and individuals working on "the front lines" are at the heart of Terralingua’s vision and strategy. The second purpose of them is to promote the preservation of the world's linguistic diversity in all its forms, regardless of political, demographic, or linguistic status, and to promote respect for linguistic human rights. Their statement of purpose is available through their website in more than 40 different languages, which can help the people to access easily with their mother tongue.

Terralingua develops and deploys its expertise and insights on issues relating to biocultural diversity in international forum, through publications, public education, fieldwork and policy development, and by enrolling and informing a membership base. Since 2001, they have developed a series of programs that focuses on the main areas of biocultural diversity: mapping,indicators, conservation, networking, policy and education. Their work has been plaing an significant role in giving shape to these aspects in the field of biocultural diversity.

With their goal to bring about a profound shift in human values through a deeper understanding and appreciation of the vital importance of biocultural diversity for the survival of all life on earth, They are now widely recognized as pioneers and leaders in the field of biocultural diversity.

To know more
Why the biodiversity crisis is worse than the global economic crisis: There’s no bailout for this one

Declaration of Belém

Terralingua’s Index of Linguistic Diversity on National Geographic News Watch

Photo courtesy terralingua.org