Loss of Biodiversity
By: Viviana M. Duarte
What is Biodiversity?
What are the Causes of Loss in Biodiversity?
Some Satistics.
1) Using natural resources before they can be renewed is becoming a major cause of biodiversity loss.
2) 52% Overall decline in species population between 1970-2010.
3) 93.4% of Global Warming is going to the Oceans.
Types of Biodiversity.
Genetic Diversity- The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It is distinguished from genetic variability, which describes the tendency of genetic characteristics to vary.
Species Diversity- The number of species and abundance of each species that live in a particular location. The number of species that live in a certain location is called species richness.
Ecological or Ecosystem Diversity- The variation in the ecosystems found in a region or the variation in ecosystems over the whole planet.
The Pros of Saving Biodiversity.
1) A culture that encourages respect for wildlife and landscapes is preferred to a culture which does not take these things seriously.
2) Landscapes and species should all be conserved because they are beautiful and enrich the lives of humans.
3) Ecosystems serve humans because they provide natural functions.
4) Biodiversity gives actual and potential material and economic benefits to people.
5) Evolution will continue.
6) No one knows what humans may need in the future. If species have become extinct, humans can never benefit from them.
Impact on Ecosystems
Challenges
While the idea of saving the environment has gotten political acceptance over the past few decades, people still misunderstand and ignore the goods and services that nature, biodiversity and ecosystems provide to us. The importance of well-working ecosystems in helping lower poverty and improve livelihoods, societies and economies is very clear to scientists. This information needs be considered into the decisions and actions of local, national and international policy makers in all sectors, as well as business leaders. The World Conservation Union continues to get better understanding of what natural ecosystems provide to humans, but the Union also looks to ensure this information is used in practical ways by bringing together scientists, policy makers, business leaders and NGOs to impact the way the world values and uses nature.