A global conference to discuss issues relating to species biodiversity around the world has kicked off in London.
In an opening speech at the event, secretary of state for the environment Hilary Benn commented that understanding the economic value of biodiversity is key to protecting many of the world's natural habitats.
"The protection and restoration of ecosystems is a sensible and cost-effective investment in this planet's economic survival and growth," Mr Benn stated.
Representatives from more than 50 countries are attending the talks, in a bid to lay the foundations for meetings later this year in Japan when global targets on biodiversity will be hammered out.
According to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 60 per cent of the world's ecosystems are being degraded or used unsustainably.
Coral reefs have been particularly effected, with experts predicting that almost one-fifth (19 per cent) of this kind of habitat has disappeared over the past 60 years.
The UN has designated 2010 as the international year of biodiversity and has a number of events planned over the next 12 months.
Unesco has created a travelling exhibition about the importance of protecting biodiversity with the aim of raising public awareness about the issue.
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