Preserving the earth's forests, oceans, plants and animals is a noble goal in and of itself. But making sure the planet retains its many species of flora and fauna is also crucial for human well-being.

This year's International Day for Biological Diversity highlights how biodiversity is the "foundation for life and for the essential services provided by ecosystems." The livelihoods of billions of people depend directly or indirectly on biodiversity. Rapid economic growth and rampant exploitation of the planet's resources is causing huge species loss, and in turn negatively impacting quality of life for human beings.

Halting biodiversity loss is key to improving lives and well-being. In many places, indigenous groups and those living in remote communities are working on the front lines to protect the environment - and their way of life. For the International Day for Biological Diversity, we take a look at four groups around the world doing just that.