Ghana marks International Day of Biological Diversity

Accra, May 21, GNA - The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology on Friday urged Ghanaians to make use of biodiversity, especially in eco-tourism, medical research, agriculture, horticulture and other economic ventures to the benefit of the people. It said that the diverse use of biodiversity could create jobs and play roles that would help in maintaining the eco-system and food supplies to reduce poverty and bring prosperity to the people. The Ministry made the call in a statement issued in Accra to commemorate this year's International Day of Biological Diversity that falls on Saturday, May 22.

The celebration is under the theme: "Biodiversity, Development and Poverty Alleviation: Recognising the Role of Biodiversity for Human Well-being".

The statement signed by Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Deputy Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, reminded Ghanaians that society was racing against time to save the world from an impending ecological disaster. It said that "While we contribute to a global effort to reduce the loss of biological diversity and its attendant destruction of its ecosystem services which are of immense benefit to Ghanaians. The statement said that marine biodiversity was further threatened by the emerging oil and gas industry which must be confronted comprehensively lest the people suffer the consequence. 21 May 10