1. World problems
  2. Threatened natural habitats

Threatened natural habitats

  • Endangered biotypes
  • Threatened wild ecoregions

Nature

Over half of the world's original forests have been cleared, and much of the forests that remain are degraded and constitute poor habitat for many native species. Whole ecosystems are effectively extinct, and some habitat types, such as Mediterranean-climate shrublands, temperate grasslands, and temperate rainforests are endangered globally. Intact assemblages of large vertebrates are rare and dwindling worldwide, and larger predators are all severely threatened by habitat loss and poaching. Freshwater and coastal marine ecosystems are estimated to be even more threatened than terrestrial systems. Over the next 40 years, conservative estimates predict an average of 100 species per day will become extinct largely from habitat loss.

Loss of habitat can adversely affect biodiversity by reducing or eliminating available habitat for individual species, altering population dynamics and ecological interactions, or changing biophysical processes that ultimately sustain critical ecological and evolutionary processes. Habitat fragmentation contributes both to habitat loss and habitat degradation. Ecological and population integrity can be compromised through habitat degradation. Specific forms and effects of habitat degradation will vary in different major habitat types, but impacts on species ranges, population dynamics, ecological interactions, and biophysical drivers can be generally derived for every ecoregion.

Background

Habitat is defined by the structure and processes associated with one or more natural communities. An ecoregion is usually classified under one major habitat type, but may encompass multiple habitat types.

Claim

Threatened natural habitats are a critical crisis that demands immediate attention. These ecosystems, which support countless species and provide essential services to humanity, are vanishing at an alarming rate due to deforestation, pollution, and climate change. The loss of biodiversity not only disrupts ecological balance but also jeopardizes our own survival. We must prioritize the protection and restoration of these vital habitats, as their preservation is essential for a sustainable future for all living beings on our planet.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

While some may argue that threatened natural habitats are a pressing issue, I contend that this concern is overstated. Human progress and development should take precedence over preserving every inch of land. Economic growth, urbanization, and technological advancement are far more critical for society's future. Nature will adapt, and prioritizing human needs is essential. Focusing on habitats distracts from more pressing issues like poverty and education, which truly deserve our attention and resources.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Broader

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Aggravates

Strategy

Value

Unnaturalness
Yet to rate
Threat
Yet to rate
Endangered
Yet to rate

SDG

Sustainable Development Goal #10: Reduced InequalitySustainable Development Goal #15: Life on Land

Metadata

Database
World problems
Type
(B) Basic universal problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
  • Biosciences » Biology
  • Geography » Nature
  • Geography » Wild
  • Societal problems » Endangered species » Endangered species
  • Societal problems » Vulnerability
  • Content quality
    Presentable
     Presentable
    Language
    English
    1A4N
    J5361
    DOCID
    12053610
    D7NID
    135713
    Last update
    May 20, 2022