The UN launches the International Year of Biodiversity on Monday, warning that the on-going loss of species affects human well-being around the world.Eight years ago, governments pledged to reduce the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010, but already it is clear that the pledge will not be met.The expansion of human cities, farming and infrastructure is the main reason. Dignitaries including UN chief Ban Ki-moon and German premier Angela Merkel will speak at the launch in Berlin.