In order to protect, or restore biodiversity, it is crucial to consider all forms of life within their entire context. The strength of NIOO-based research is that it integrates all of the different levels and scales that make up biodiversity, from genetic diversity to species diversity, from small to large organisms, from trophic interactions to communities and ecosystems, and in a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Therefore, NIOO is in the right position to make a substantial and scientifically important contribution to the societal goal of the SDGs.