Education and public awareness
Natural History Museum researcher talking to schoolchildren in Guyana about the importance of local varieties of crops and why it is important that scientists study them.
Biodiversity has important social and cultural significance for many groups of people. Many national symbols are derived from the natural world.
The diverse needs of people and their differing perceptions, knowledge, attitudes, interests, values and understanding in respect of biodiversity conservation must be recognised and respected.
At the same time, many of the things we do have potentially catastrophic impacts on biodiversity. Raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity is important for ensuring everyone participates in efforts to conserve and sustainably use it.
What is the Museum doing to help?
Find out how you can get involved in Museum projects to gather information on biological diversity in the UK.
Discover how the Museum helps to raise awareness of biodiversity through its exhibitions and education programmes in the UK, as well as helping to raise awareness of biodiversity conservation issues in other countries through travelling exhibitions and by providing education for trainee scientists in other countries.
Find out more about some of the Museum's education and awareness projects.