Biological diversity, the numbers and kinds of organisms with which we share the planet, is declining at an alarming rate. Current estimates suggest that we may be losing over 1000 species each year. While the ethical and aesthetic reasons for preserving biodiversity have been discussed for years, scientists have recognized recently a more fundamental motivation for maintaining the biological diversity on earth. Research shows that organisms are key players in the maintenance of ecosystem services that sustain life on our planet. The production of oxygen, the cleansing of water, the growth of plants, and the storage of greenhouse gases are just some of the ecosystem services provided by the diversity of organisms on earth. Biodiversity is the cornerstone of healthy ecosystems and, by extension, critical to the health of the environments in which we live. The life support system provided by biodiversity is necessary for all human endeavors. Agricultural and forestry production, fisheries and wildlife, and the health of our urban centers depend upon clean air, clean water, and productive soils. When species are lost from ecosystems, we threaten the ecosystem services that sustain life.

In response to the threats posed by declining biodiversity, the University of Georgia has established the Center for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes. The mission of the Center is to become the premier research unit worldwide in the study of biodiversity and ecosystem services. Over fifty faculty from across the University of Georgia are members of the Center. In addition, the Center has collaborative links with the State Museum of Natural History, the State Botanical Gardens, Highlands Biological Station, Archbold Biological Station, the US Geological Survey, and the US Forest Service. The breadth and expertise of Center participants is unparalleled at any university worldwide, and will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the links between biodiversity and ecosystem services.

The Center for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes will generate new scientific knowledge that contributes to a global understanding of the role of biodiversity in ecosystem health. Center research will address the effects of declining biodiversity on both natural resources and production industries while developing strategies for the mitigation of adverse effects. Research will also explore how the management of biodiversity can reduce the negative consequences of global environmental change. In addition, the Center will engage in education and outreach to inform students, policy-makers, and the public on issues relating to biodiversity and ecosystem services.

The maintenance of healthy ecosystems is a clear challenge for the new millennium. When ecosystems begin to degrade, so must our quality of life. The Center for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes is providing knowledge that will help to maintain our planet's life support systems upon which our future well-being depends.

For further information about Center activities and opportunities, or to
send news about your own research programs, please contact

Mark D. Hunter, Director
Center of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes
Institute of Ecology, University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602-2202
Phone (706) 542-1801
Email mhunter@sparc.ecology.uga.edu.

 

University of Georgia | Institute of Ecology | School of Environmental Design
Ecology Public Service and Outreach | Environmental Design Public Service and Outreach

The College of Environment and Design • Caldwell Hall • University of Georgia • Athens, GA 30602-1845 USA
phone (706) 542-1816  •  fax (706) 542-4485

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