Introduction
Biodiversity is a critical aspect of our planet’s health and survival. Yet, it is facing unprecedented threats from various human activities. To name a few, habitat destruction, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and climate breakdown. These activities are causing species to go extinct at an alarming rate.
The decline of African elephant populations is a striking example of the impact of human activity on biodiversity. The ivory trade, which involves the illegal poaching and sale of elephant tusks, has had a devastating effect on elephant populations in Africa. In the 19th century, over 20 million elephants were found in the African continent. By the end of 20th century, the number of African elephants had decreased by more than 95%. Some estimates suggest that there are now only around 400,000 African elephants left in the wild.
Some estimates suggest that
the 6th mass extinction has already begun
The decline of elephant population is just one example of the destruction of biodiversity that is happening around the world. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, about 35,500 species of plants and animals are threatened with extinction. The IUCN publishes the ‘Red List’ which categorizes more than 150,000 species into nine levels of threatened status. According to the list, various mammals, amphibians, coniferous forests, sharks and rays, and corals are critically endangered. Among them, 40% of all species of amphibians are at risk of extinction.
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Learn more about the IUCN Red List
What is IUCN Red List? – Peace Issue – NEWS & INSIGHTS – Sunhak Peace Prize
What is biodiversity and why is it important?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth. It encompasses three types of diversity – species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity – which are all interconnected and interdependent. Therefore, preserving biodiversity means respecting the millions of species of plants and animals on Earth and the ecosystems support them.
Biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and stability of ecosystems. This is because the ecosystem can maintain their balance and function without significant changes if there are many species that can take over when a particular species disappears. For example, a decline in the population of bees. They are important pollinators and have far-reaching effects on ecosystems and the food chain.
Biodiversity also provides humankind with a wide range of resources, including food, water, wood, and energy. In addition, the diverse and colorful landscapes that result from biodiversity provide aesthetic and spiritual benefits to humanity.
Threats to biodiversity
Unfortunately, biodiversity is under threat from a range of human activities. One of the leading causes of extinction is habitat destruction. And it can disrupt ecosystems and make it difficult for species to survive. The introduction of invasive species can also have a significant impact on ecosystems, as they can outcompete native species and disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.
source: iStock/acilo
Environmental pollution, including air and water pollution, can also have negative impacts on biodiversity. This can include harming the health and survival of individual species, as well as disrupting the functioning of entire ecosystems. Moreover, population growth and overexploitation of natural resources can also have negative impacts on biodiversity. Theses factors put pressure on ecosystems and lead to habitat destruction and over-harvesting of resources.
Efforts to conserve biodiversity
Efforts to restore biodiversity are essential in ensuring the survival of many species on our planet. Ongoing investigation of bio-distribution and habitat environments is necessary to understand the needs of different species and provide them with the support they require to thrive. In addition, protecting rare and endangered species is also crucial. Various efforts include raising them in captivity and releasing them into the wild, protecting zoos, and operating plant seed banks.
Legislation should also be enacted and implemented to protect ecosystem species from threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, and overexploitation. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the interdependence of ecosystems, humans, plants, and animals, and the need to take steps to prevent future pandemics. The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of a new health paradigm called “One Health,” which recognizes the interconnection between human health, animal health, and environmental health.
In the international community, various efforts are being made to protect biodiversity. The United Nations has set up several initiatives to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Sustainable Development Goals. These initiatives aim to raise awareness, promote education, and encourage action to conserve biodiversity.
The rapid extinction of plants and animals is affecting ecosystems and human society, and the impact is expected to become more severe in the future. According to researchers at Stanford University, about 240 mammals, birds, and amphibians have become extinct in the last 500 years, which is 114 times faster than the average rate of extinction. It is crucial to educate students about the importance of conserving biodiversity and the potential solutions to address this issue.
Final Thoughts
The rapid extinction of plants and animals is also affecting ecosystems and human society, and it is predicted that the impact will become more severe in the future. Overall, It is important that we take action to protect biodiversity and ensure that these species continue to exist for future generations. This can involve measures such as creating protected areas, reducing our consumption of natural resources, and supporting sustainable practices in agriculture and forestry. By working together to protect biodiversity, we can help ensure a healthy and sustainable planet for all.
The Learn & Act initiative is designed to provide educational materials for students to learn about the importance of conserving biodiversity and the goals of the United Nations. The initiative also encourages students to think critically about possible solutions and take action to protect biodiversity. The Sunhak Peace Prize website provides a teacher’s guide and student worksheets to assist teachers in educating their students about this critical issue. We hope that this initiative will be useful for teachers and help raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.
“Conserving Biodiversity?” is part of the Sunhak Peace Prize’s “Learn & Act,” an educational program designed to introduce diverse approaches to global peace issues.
Teachers can use the Teacher’s Guide and Student Worksheets to give a lesson on each issue and lead discussions.
