Why do we need to Protect Biodiversity

The scientific word for the variety of life on Earth is biological diversity, or biodiversity. It encompasses not only species but also ecosystems and genetic diversity within a single species. Species coexist and rely on one another everywhere in the world. Ecosystems, which are sophisticated networks of interrelated relationships, are made up of every living entity, including people.

Ecosystems that are healthy clean our water, filter our air, maintain our soil, manage the climate, recycle nutrients, and feed us. They supply raw materials and resources to the pharmaceutical and other industries.They are the foundation of all civilisations, as well as the lifeblood of our economies. Simply said, these “ecosystem services” are necessary for our survival. Our natural capital is what we name them.

Why do we need to protect biodiversity

Biodiversity is an important indicator of ecological health. Threats will be dealt with more effectively by a varied range of species than by a few number of them in large populations. Even if pollution, climate change, or human activities destroy some species, the ecosystem as a whole may be able to adapt and survive. However, the extinction of a species can have unintended consequences, sometimes leading to the extinction of entire ecosystems.

Although European variety is unparalleled, biodiversity loss has accelerated to unprecedented levels in Europe and around the world. The current global extinction rate is projected to be 100 to 1000 times higher than the natural rate.In Europe, 42 percent of European animals, 15 percent of birds, and 45 percent of butterflies and reptiles are threatened. To mention a few, the Arctic fox, Iberian lynx, and red squirrel are all endangered species.

Ways to Protect and Conserve Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the diversity of all living organisms, including ecosystems, plants, animals, their habitats, and DNA. Biodiversity is important because it provides essential ecosystem services such as oxygen, food, clean water, fertile soil, medicines, shelter, protection from storms and floods, a stable climate, and recreation. Unfortunately, human civilization is causing biodiversity to perish at 1,000 times the typical rate. Individual species are being wiped off by habitat loss and degradation, invasive species, pollution and disease transmission, climate change, and resource overexploitation. And, with the human population set to treble from 1970 to 9 billion by 2050, the biodiversity catastrophe will only worsen as more people demand more resources.

Because resource usage is a main cause of biodiversity loss, we may consume less and be more careful of what we use. We must use our purchasing power to support biodiversity by purchasing things that are environmentally beneficial. Ecolabels allow customers to determine which items are environmentally beneficial, safe, and long-lasting. However, because there are so many ecolabels — there were 400 separate sustainability certifications available worldwide in 2010 — they can be confusing.

 Here are a few of the most trustworthy and well-known eco-labels to search for.

USDA Certified Organic –The USDA Organic mark confirms that raw, fresh, and processed items are either 100 percent organic or “organic” (containing 95 percent organically produced ingredients). Pesticides, petroleum fertilisers, and sewage sludge fertilisers are prohibited in organic farming. Animals must be fed organic feed and have access to the outdoors, and antibiotics and growth hormones are not permitted. Genetic engineering is strictly forbidden. In general, organic production allows all natural (non-synthetic) substances while prohibiting all manufactured substances. If personal care and cosmetic items meet USDA/National Organic Program criteria, they can be called organic.

Certified Fair Trade -This badge ensures that farmers and labourers in developing countries are treated fairly. It also supports sustainable and organic agriculture while protecting local ecosystems. Beans and grains, chocolate, coffee, flowers and plants, fruits and vegetables, honey, herbs and spices, nuts and oil seeds, sugar, tea, and wine are all Fair Trade certified products. Clothing, sports balls, and cosmetics can all be accredited.

Council for Marine Stewardship – 

The MSC is a multinational organisation that establishes sustainable fishing standards and certifies seafood from sustainable fisheries (only wild capture fisheries). Current captures must be maintained at levels that ensure fish populations and ecosystems remain healthy and productive now and in the future in sustainable fisheries. For ethical dining, the MSC publishes a list of certified sustainable fish.

Green Seal certification –Green Seal was one of the first environmental certification schemes, having been founded in 1989. It certifies products, services, and companies that safeguard the environment and human health using lifecycle-based sustainability standards.From raw materials extraction through manufacturing to use and disposal, all relevant environmental and social aspects are examined. Cleansers, construction materials, paints, paper, paper towels and tissue, food packaging, and hand soaps are among the certified products. Also certified are cleaning services, restaurants, and motels.

Star Energy – Energy Star is now an international standard for energy efficient products, having been developed by the US Departments of Environmental Protection and Energy. Certified items must meet or exceed customer expectations while increasing energy efficiency, and if an Energy Star product is more expensive than a typical equivalent, consumers must be able to return their investment through energy savings in a fair amount of time. Appliances are among the Energy Star goods (refrigerators, washers, dryers, etc.)Lighting and fans, plumbing, heating and cooling equipment, and construction items are all examples of computer and electronics (windows, doors, roofing, insulation, etc.).Lighting and fans, plumbing, heating and cooling equipment, and construction items are all examples of computer and electronics (windows, doors, roofing, insulation, etc.).

Conclusion

Biodiversity refers to the variety of living creatures found on the planet, as well as their interactions and interrelationships within the ecosystem. The three core types of biodiversity are genetics, species, and biodiversity of ecosystems or habitats.

Human dominance is the most frequent threat to biodiversity because it exploits its power and consumes all forms of resources while endangering the lives of other species. Biodiversity is essential for maintaining the balance of our terrestrial environment and ecosystem. Pollution and undesired substances in the environment are also caused by humans. By preserving and protecting species, biodiversity conservation is critical for the long-term sustainability of a healthier land.If we do not act now, we risk witnessing the demise of sensitive biodiversity, further disrupting the natural balance.