Abstract:
Global climate change, biodiversity loss, and energy insecurity
represent interconnected challenges of the Anthropocene. Energy systems dominated
by fossil fuels drive environmental degradation, while ecosystems themselves remain
underutilized as renewable energy providers. The concept of biodiversity
as a renewable energy resource recognizes that diverse ecosystems produce
sustainable biomass, regulate carbon and nutrient cycles, and provide resilience
against climate change. The role of biodiversity in energy productivity is often
underestimated compared to conventional renewable sources such as wind, solar,
or hydropower. However, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems collectively account
for approximately 105-120 petagrams of carbon fixed annually through
photosynthesis, representing the primary energy base of the biosphere. Understanding
how this biological productivity can be harnessed responsibly is vital for aligning
energy systems with sustainable development goals (SDGs).
