The theme articles included in this edition of School Science Review have been chosen to reflect many aspects of biodiversity in 2010. Biodiversity has ecological, economic, social and political dimensions and our authors reflect this in their writing. We have tried to allow them to use their own voices and to express polemical opinions where appropriate. These opinions may not always be those of the editors or of School Science Review, but we respect the right of the authors to hold and express these views within the pages of this journal.