Biodiversity (03:23)

FREE PREVIEW

More than one million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction because of climate change. The lack of biodiversity has dangerous effects.

Biodiversity Loss (05:08)

In 2019, the United Nations performed a global assessment of the natural world. Results revealed that all groups in the natural world, regardless of place, are declining. The rate of extinction is much higher than it should be.

Insect Extinction (04:23)

About 10% of insects are at risk of extinction, which would disrupt the food chain for thousands of species. Approximately one third of the world's food crops rely on insect pollination. The lack of insects has denigrated soil, harming plants.

Poaching (05:14)

Poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking are major threats to global biodiversity. Pangolins are poached so their scales can be sold in Asia.

Fishing Industry (03:04)

There is massive and widespread overfishing throughout the world. In the last 40 years, the industry has increased. Many fish populations have not recovered to sustainable levels.

Consumption and Population (04:04)

Consumption has increased in the developed world and population has increased in the developing world. Most consumer goods are produced in ways that create pollution.

Climate Change and Habitat Loss (04:55)

Earth is getting warmer, affecting all species. Some are unable to survive in their normal habitats and move to places where it is cooler. Habitat loss is a major threat to biodiversity.

Pandemics (06:55)

Scientists believe there is a connection between biodiversity loss and pandemic events, like COVID-19. Human impacts on the environment are the driver of viruses jumping from animals to humans. COVID-19 is believed to have jumped from bats to humans in Yunnan Province, China.

Human Inaction (03:11)

Though many world governments have pledged to protect global biodiversity, little has been done. Global environmental laws are not strong enough and capitalism is often prioritized.

Investing in the Environment (03:55)

Making investments in environmental protection is a way out of the global recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The value of nature needs to be taken into consideration and waste must be reduced.

Environmental Protection (08:55)

Strong government regulations could reduce the loss of biodiversity. There must be a political and personal will to protect the environment.

Credits: Extinction: The Facts (00:29)

Credits: Extinction: The Facts