Karnataka Biodiversity Board plays a crucial role in the conservation of the rich biodiversity of Karnataka. As a state-level body, it works under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and focuses on sustainable use and conservation of natural resources. This article provides full details about the Karnataka Biodiversity Board, its functions, objectives, structure, and how it contributes to environmental sustainability.
✅ What is Karnataka Biodiversity Board?
The Karnataka Biodiversity Board (KBB) is a statutory body established by the Government of Karnataka to implement the provisions of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The board aims to promote conservation, sustainable use of biological resources, and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use. It serves as a key authority to monitor biodiversity-related activities within the state.
🌿 Objectives of Karnataka Biodiversity Board
- Conservation of Biodiversity
KBB works actively to preserve Karnataka’s diverse ecosystems, which include forests, wetlands, rivers, and agricultural landscapes. - Sustainable Use of Biological Resources
The board promotes sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry, and natural resource management to prevent overexploitation. - Documentation of Biological Resources
KBB maintains detailed records of flora, fauna, traditional knowledge, and biotic resources of Karnataka. - Promoting Awareness & Education
The board organizes seminars, workshops, and campaigns to spread awareness about biodiversity conservation. - Regulation of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS)
Ensures that any commercial use of biological resources and traditional knowledge follows the fair benefit-sharing mechanism under the Biological Diversity Act.
🏛️ Structure of Karnataka Biodiversity Board
- Chairman: Appointed by the State Government.
- Members: Includes experts from diverse fields such as botany, zoology, ecology, law, and social science.
- Secretary: Manages day-to-day operations.
- State Biodiversity Officer: Ensures implementation of biodiversity management programs.
✅ Key Functions of Karnataka Biodiversity Board
- Approval of Biodiversity Access Applications
The Board grants approvals for commercial utilization of biological resources under strict regulation. - Preparation of People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs)
Documenting local biodiversity and traditional knowledge in a systematic manner. - Research and Monitoring
Supports research projects related to conservation and sustainable development of biodiversity. - Capacity Building and Awareness
Conducts training programs and public awareness campaigns to promote biodiversity conservation.
📊 Importance of Karnataka Biodiversity Board
- Protects Endangered Species and their habitats.
- Supports Sustainable Agriculture Practices.
- Facilitates Eco-Tourism and Community-Based Conservation.
- Promotes Equitable Sharing of Benefits from biodiversity use.
- Helps achieve National and International Biodiversity Targets.
📢 Recent Initiatives & News (2025)
- Launched a Statewide Digital Biodiversity Portal to make biodiversity data accessible online.
- Initiated a campaign: “Save Karnataka’s Flora and Fauna” to raise public awareness.
- Collaborated with local universities for biodiversity research projects focusing on endemic species.
- Announced grants for projects promoting Traditional Knowledge Documentation.
📞 Contact Details of Karnataka Biodiversity Board
- Address: Karnataka Biodiversity Board, #29, Church Street, Bengaluru – 560001, Karnataka, India
- Phone: +91-80-2220-4455
- Email: info@kbb.gov.in
- Official Website: https://kbb.karnataka.gov.in
✅ Conclusion
Karnataka Biodiversity Board plays a pivotal role in protecting and promoting the state’s rich biological diversity. From regulating the use of biological resources to promoting sustainable practices, KBB ensures that Karnataka’s natural wealth remains conserved for future generations. For anyone interested in biodiversity conservation, KBB is a vital organization to follow.
