26/11/2023
Such a great question. The reason for this is our actions as a species. While we believe ourselves to be the apex species on the planet, purportedly due to our higher intellect, reasoning and ability to think on multi-dimensional levels, not to mention our opposable thumbs, we have used this to destroy everything within reach in the name of profit, growth, and then more profit.
Some examples:
1. Amazon Rainforest Destruction: Often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," has lost approximately 11,088 sq. km. between August 2019 and July 2020, marking a 9.5% increase from the previous year.
2. Coral Reef Bleaching: Climate change-induced warming of ocean waters has led to widespread coral bleaching. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the most diverse coral ecosystems on Earth, experienced severe bleaching events in 2016 and 2017, affecting nearly 90% of the reef.
3. Plastic Pollution in Oceans: It's estimated that over 8 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans annually, causing harm to marine life through ingestion, entanglement, and habitat destruction. It's now starting to affect us humans, too.
4. Palm Oil Plantations: Large-scale clearing of tropical forests for palm oil plantations is a significant driver of biodiversity loss, with Malaysia and Indonesia being the largest producers as of 2020.
5. Overfishing and Collapse of Fisheries: A study published in the journal "Science" estimated that over 30% of the world's fisheries are overexploited, depleted, or recovering from depletion.
6. Loss of Wetlands: According to the Ramsar Convention, approximately 35% of the world's wetlands were lost between 1970 and 2015, mainly due to urban and agricultural expansion.
7. Extinction Crisis: The current rate of species extinction is estimated to be 1,000 times higher than the natural background rate, thanks to human excesses.
8. Land Use Change and Biodiversity Loss: The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) reports that global populations of vertebrate species have declined by an average of 68% since 1970, primarily due to habitat loss.
Our horrific impact on biodiversity and natural ecosystems must stop to ensure a sustainable and resilient planet for future generations. This is our priority. Join us in our and help us restore balance to our natural ecosystems.
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