Integrating climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation targets can significantly benefit sustainable urbanisation Mishra Varsha, Priyadarshini Priya, Abhilash P.C.* Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, Uttar Pradesh, India *Corresponding author email id: pca.iesd@bhu.ac.in
Abstract Anthropogenic activities leading to acceleration of extreme climatic events, global temperature increase and mean sea level rise is causing degradation of ecological systems at the regional and local levels. Subsequently research efforts world-wide are being dedicated towards ascertaining the extent of environmental damage and finding solutions for enhancing resilience of socioecological systems. Impact on human health aside, shifting precipitation patterns, harsh weather conditions, polar ice thinning, ocean acidification combined with pollution mediated toxification of freshwater systems has also resulted in significant stress on floral and faunal diversity belonging to diverse habitats. The present short communication therefore highlights the impact of climate change on biodiversity of varied ecosystems and moves onto illustrate that even-though urban ecosystems are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, they also offer unique opportunities to boost city resilience, foster sustainable development and conserve local biodiversity. Top Keywords Biodiversity, Cities, Climate change, Ecosystem services, Resilience, Urban sustainability. Top |