People are being encouraged to plant a tree today to mark International Biodiversity Day.
The aim of the day is to promote increased awareness and highlight the need to protect the natural environment.
The Department of the Environment has asked people to plant native Irish species of oak, rowan or birch as they are more likely to support more native plants, birds, animals and insects than an exotic tree.
A native oak tree growing in Ireland can support about 290 different species of plants, animals, birds and insects for food and shelter.
Dr Marian Coll, ecologist with Notice Nature, said the Department is "focusing on trees today because of all the benefits they provide to the earth and to humans".
The Department has also partnered with environmental groups to organise a calendar of events for this, the first ever National Biodiversity Week, with "bat walks", nature walks and public lectures throughout Ireland. Details can be found on www.noticenature.ie .
Elsewhere, it emerged today that nearly one in every six European mammal species is now threatened with extinction, according to research.
The warning follows the first assessment of all European mammals commissioned by the European Commission and carried out by the World Conservation Union.
The population trends are equally alarming, as over a quarter (27 per cent) of all mammal populations are declining.
Only 8 per cent were identified as increasing, including the European bison, which is enjoying a resurgence thanks to successful conservation measures.
Europe is now home to the world's most threatened cat species, the Iberian lynx, and the world's most threatened seal, the Mediterranean monk seal - both classified as critically endangered.
Additional reporting Reuters
