They include major centres of biodiversity, often coinciding with centres of cultural diversity where traditional ecological knowledge is maintained.

UNESCO: Ecological Sciences and Research

Protect and restore the integrity of Earth's ecological systems, with special concern for biological diversity and the natural processes that sustain life.

CNN: Earth Charter sets course for sustainable living

Dr Fogarty says such rich diversity is a repository of thousands of years ecological, spiritual and social knowledge built up by generations of Australia's first peoples.

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