ABSTRACT
Since the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) came into force, the term ‘biodiversity’ has advanced to become a central notion and keyword in international environmental politics. The protection of biological diversity in various regions is the subject of a large number of national strategies and regulations as well as international agreements. ‘Biodiversity’ has become a significant element of those political decision-making processes that in one way or another affect natural spaces and resources. To name just a few examples, these processes range from the construction of roads, airports and residential developments to negotiations on fisheries quotas, to the exploitation of raw materials, to the touristic or commercial use of forest areas.
