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Biodiversity is the diversity of living organisms on Earth, including their genetic characteristics and the variety of ecosystems. Every plant, animal, fungus, and microorganism plays a specific role in maintaining ecosystem functions. The extinction of even a single species can negatively affect the stability and balance of an entire ecosystem.

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, release oxygen, protect soil from erosion, and provide food and habitat for numerous animal species. In addition, many plants are widely used in traditional medicine and the pharmaceutical industry. Kazakhstan is rich in medicinal plant species, including Rhodiola rosea (golden root), Rhaponticum carthamoides (maral root), Rosa canina (rosehip), Hippophae rhamnoides (sea buckthorn), Artemisia (wormwood), and Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile), all of which possess valuable medicinal properties.

Humanity's need for food, medicines, construction materials, and other natural resources is directly linked to biodiversity. Therefore, biodiversity conservation is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. The sustainable use of plant resources includes scientifically based harvesting, cultivation, restoration of natural populations, and continuous monitoring.

Biodiversity also makes a significant contribution to agricultural development. Wild plant species provide valuable genetic resources for the development of new crop varieties. In addition, natural ecosystems help mitigate the impacts of climate change, conserve water resources, and reduce the risk of natural disasters.

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, adopted by the United Nations, aims to protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, ensure sustainable forest management, combat desertification, halt land degradation, and prevent biodiversity loss. This goal is intended not only to conserve nature but also to ensure the sustainable development and well-being of humanity for future generations.

Kazakhstan is one of the countries rich in natural resources. Its vast territory includes desert, steppe, forest-steppe, mountain, and aquatic ecosystems. These ecosystems provide habitats for numerous rare species of plants and animals. The flora of Kazakhstan comprises more than 6,000 species of vascular plants, many of which are endemic and listed in the Red Book. Biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Therefore, nature conservation and the sustainable use of plant resources are of particular importance for Kazakhstan.

Within the framework of this important topic, an educational and practical lecture entitled "Conservation of Biodiversity and Sustainable Use of Plant Resources" was conducted for students of the 6B05102 – Biology educational program as part of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15. During the event, participants examined the protection of terrestrial ecosystems, forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable use of plant resources, while also discussing their ecological and social significance.

In addition, students received information about the current state of biodiversity in Kazakhstan, the role of protected natural areas, measures for conserving rare plant species, and approaches to the sustainable management of natural resources. The participants became familiar with the objectives of SDG 15 and discussed the professional role and responsibility of future biologists in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and contributing to environmental conservation.

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15 focuses on protecting nature, restoring forests, promoting the sustainable use of land resources, and conserving biodiversity. Biodiversity is the foundation of human life and a key factor in maintaining the stability of natural ecosystems. Therefore, every individual has a responsibility to contribute to the protection of the environment.

As Kazakhstan is a country rich in natural resources, the scientifically based use of plant resources, the conservation of rare species, the expansion of protected natural areas, and the restoration of forest resources are essential for ensuring the country's environmental security. Protecting nature is not only the responsibility of the government but also the duty of every citizen. Only by preserving nature can we leave future generations an environmentally secure and rich natural heritage (Figures 1-3).

Figure 1 – Conservation of biological diversity and sustainable use of plant resources within the framework of SDG 15.

The conducted event enhanced students' environmental knowledge, strengthened their sense of responsibility for nature conservation, and improved their understanding of the principles of the scientific and sustainable use of plant resources. As a result, the students recognized the importance of supporting the principles of sustainable development, conserving biodiversity, and actively participating in initiatives aimed at protecting terrestrial ecosystems.

Protecting nature is not only the responsibility of government institutions but also a shared responsibility of every member of society. Therefore, developing the environmental awareness of future biologists and improving their knowledge of the sustainable use of natural resources and biodiversity conservation are among the key prerequisites for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).