Page - vi - in Biodiversity and Health in the Face of Climate Change

vi This volume brings together rich insights of how biological diversity matters to people and their physical, mental and spiritual health and well-being, particularly in the context of a changing climate. Notably, the volume takes a systemic approach to assembling evidence from the social, natural and health sciences, draws on practical expertise from applied case studies, and discusses findings in the frame of ongoing developments in policy and planning. By understanding the true value and potential of biodiversity for health, we can develop the policies, research and practice to safe- guard and secure these crucial contributions from nature to society and to our future. This book helps understand what is at stake and what can be done. We should do it quickly, because we have no alternative  – and Mother Nature is the timekeeper. Director for Natural Capital Humberto  Delgado  Rosa Directorate-General Environment European Commission Brussels, Belgium Foreword I