Decoding the structural and functional basis of biodiversity

The current global transformation of ecosystems is triggering a planetary biodiversity crisis and massive extinctions. The loss of biodiversity worldwide presents substantial risks for our human life-support system, since it has serious impacts on water quality and availability, food production, and human health, among many others. However, the scientific foundation for understanding the structure, function and vulnerability of biodiversity is still insufficient.

The main objective of the Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB) is to provide the required knowledge to tackle the fundamental, global challenge of rapid biodiversity change. To achieve its goal, BBIB crosses traditional academic boundaries through integrating competences in ecological, evolutionary, social, and political sciences available in the Berlin region. BBIB is designed as a flexible institution of four universities and five non-university institutes of the Leibniz Association.

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The Year of Biodiversity at Freie Universität Berlin

The year 2024 at Freie Universität Berlin is dedicated to the diversity of life on our planet. Biodiversity is declining drastically worldwide, with 150 animal and plant species becoming extinct every day. Through interdisciplinary approaches and cooperation among various departments, Freie Universität is helping to raise awareness of the urgency of preserving biodiversity and to develop innovative solutions to the challenges of dealing with this global issue. 

With the Year of Biodiversity, the university is sending out a strong signal for the protection and promotion of biodiversity. The initiative emphasizes the importance of biodiversity for ecosystems, human health, and well-being. A rich program of events offers students, researchers, and the general public the opportunity to get actively involved and make a joint contribution to the conservation of biodiversity.