FROM JANUARY 20 TO APRIL 30, 2025, THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD AT THE CNR HEADQUARTERS IN ROME “THE LAND OF BIODIVERSITY. THE ITALIAN NATURAL HERITAGE”. THIS EXHIBITION, ORGANIZED BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ITALIA AND THE NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY FUTURE CENTER, CELEBRATES THE UNIQUE WEALTH OF ITALIAN BIODIVERSITY AND RAISES AWARENESS OF THE URGENT TO PROTECT IT
Italy, cradle of biodiversity
According to the report of United Nations Convention on Biological DiversityItaly stands out for its extraordinary fauna and flora richness. In fact, it is home to more than 58,000 animal species, a significant portion of which are endemic species, i.e. organisms found nowhere else on the planet. To be precise: about 30% of the animal species and more than 50% of the plants on Italian territory are unique in the world.
This incredible biodiversity is closely linked to the variety of biogeographical regions that characterize the country. The Alpswith their extreme mountain ecosystems, are home to species exceptionally adapted to harsh climates, such as the ibex and the golden eagle.
In contrast, the continental region, characterized by fertile plains and hills, is dominated by rich vegetation, including trees such as oak, beech and chestnut, which provide ideal habitats for diverse fauna. Animals such as wolves and wild boars make their home here, taking advantage of the abundance of food and the dense forests that provide shelter.
The Mediterranean region, with its temperate climate and special ecosystems, stands out as one of the global hubs of biodiversity. Species such as the field lizard and iconic plants such as the holm oak and the wild olive tree thrive here, forming complex habitats rich in ecological interactions.
This unique natural heritage is the result of millennia of evolution, influenced by both natural processes and interaction with human activities. The climatic variations, complex geography and geological history of the area have created ideal ecological niches for the development of an incredible variety of life forms.
However, this extraordinary natural wealth is now threatened by phenomena such as climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, pollution, the introduction of invasive species and habitat loss. Therefore, 68% of Italian ecosystems are in danger and 30% of species are in danger of extinction.
For example, Italian waters are home to unique species such as the Corsican gull, which nests on uninhabited islands. However, rising sea temperatures and overexploitation of fish stocks are endangering these fragile balances. Similarly, the native crayfish, a symbol of river biodiversity, is increasingly threatened by alien species, habitat loss and poaching.
An exhibition to raise awareness and inspire
In this context of ecological urgency, the exhibition “The land of biodiversity. The Italian natural heritage” It is presented as a powerful educational and awareness tool. Compiled by National Geographic Italy in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Future Center – NBFC (established in 2023), the exhibition will be held in the prestigious venue of National Research Council (CNR) to Rome.
The exhibition route is divided into five thematic areas, with more than fifty photographs taken by internationally renowned photographers such as Marco Colombo, Bruno D’Amicis and Ugo Mellone. The images tell the story of the richness of Italy’s ecosystems, from the Alpine peaks to the seabed, through the Apennine forests and the Mediterranean prairies.
Each photo is also accompanied by a scientific study that illustrates the peculiarities of the species portrayed and the threats they face. One of the most iconic photos is of a red fox, immortalized as it gracefully descends a snowy slope. A symbol of adaptability, this animal embodies the resilience of Italian nature, but also its fragility in the face of modern challenges.
The role of research and citizen science
The exhibition is not limited to celebrating Italy’s extraordinary natural resources, but represents a call for nature conservation, scientific research and the active involvement of society. The project brings together more than fifty partners, including universities, research centers and companies, with the aim of preserving, restoring and enhancing Italy’s natural heritage.
An important pillar of the NBFC’s work is environmental education. The exhibition offers guided tours for schools, enriched with educational workshops designed to stimulate children and young people of all ages. These educational activities aim to raise awareness among new generations and inspire them to become active custodians of biodiversity.
In addition to educational programs, the exhibition promotes citizen sciencean innovative participatory approach that invites citizens to contribute to the monitoring of endangered species. Through these initiatives, participants not only raise awareness but also become an integral part of efforts to protect ecosystems. This collaboration between science and society shows that significant changes can occur by combining scientific expertise with collective commitment.
The exhibition emphasizes that biodiversity is not just an aesthetic heritage to be admired, but an indispensable resource for our survival.
Protecting biodiversity is essential to ensuring the health of ecosystems, on which we depend for basic resources such as food, water and climate regulation. Every extinct species represents an irreparable loss to the planet, while the degradation of ecosystems irreparably endangers our future.
Sources:
National Geographic Italy
National Biodiversity Future Center
Convention on Biological Diversity, United Nations Environment Programme