Through four billion years of evolution, life on earth has expanded to almost infinite diversity, each species interacting with others and molding itself to its habitat until a global ecosystem developed. This diversity of life forms is commonly referred to as biodiversity. Biodiversity is not only crucial to ecosystem balance, but also brings immeasurable benefit to human lives. In recent years, however, human activities have caused a rapid decline in biodiversity, such as through destruction of habitats and overhunting. This is true of Japan as much as anywhere else, where changes to the natural environment threaten many species that have developed over millions of years. Seeking to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable use of the natural environment on a global scale, the Convention on Biological Diversity came into effect in 1993. After becoming a signatory, Japan adapted the National Biodiversity Strategy in 1995, outlining a basic plan for reaching the goals laid out in the convention. Following this national strategy, Biodiversity Center of Japan was established to encourage the conservation of biodiversity in Japan and also to contribute to international efforts toward conserving biodiversity.

History
1993	Convention on Biological Diversity comes into effect
1994	Study group for Biodiversity Center is set up in the Environment Agency. Study into a biodiversity information system begins.
1995	Budget for Biodiversity Center is allocated. The National Biodiversity Strategy of Japan is adapted.
1996	Construction started.
1998	Construction completed.
1998  April 9	Administrative body for Biodiversity Center of Japan established.
1998 June 24	Inauguration ceremony held.
1999	Natural Environment Research foundation started the 6th
2001 January 06	"Biodiversity Center" was established
2002 March 27	Formulated a new National Biodiversity Strategy
2010 March	Renewed the exhibition hall