Species extinction and biodiversity

In short: Biodiversity refers to the variety of species, habitats, and genetic variation on Earth. Current species extinction is happening significantly faster than natural historical extinction rates.

In more detail: Main causes are habitat loss, climate change, pollution, overfishing, and invasive species.

In detail

• Ecosystem services: Diverse ecosystems provide pollination, water purification, and soil fertility that humans directly benefit from.
• Habitat loss: Agriculture, deforestation, and urban growth destroy natural habitats at a rapid pace.
• Cascade effects: The disappearance of one species can throw entire food chains and ecosystems off balance.
• Red List: The IUCN maintains an internationally recognised list of threatened species with danger levels.
• Protected areas: National parks and marine protected areas help preserve habitats and their biodiversity.
• Reintroduction: Successful projects have already re-established species once thought extinct back into the wild.
• Individual contribution: Nature-friendly gardens, conscious consumption, and supporting conservation projects can help on a small scale (regenwald-und-abholzung, nahrungskette-und-oekosystem).