Let us begin today’s blog with some hard-hitting numbers. It is unbelievable, but in the last 500 years, we humans have led to about 869 animal species facing extinction. What is even more upsetting to hear is that in the upcoming days, one in every four mammals, one in three amphibians, and one in every eight birds is expected to be at the risk of extinction.
In the current times, tortoises and freshwater turtles continue to remain one of the vulnerable species facing the threat of extinction. The worst part, however, is that biodiversity loss of this nature and volume poses a direct risk to the environment, showing up in the form of early signs of an impending environmental crises. We at the Tribhuvan College of Environment & Development Sciences, positioned among the leading environmental science colleges in Delhi NCR, believe that nationwide attention needs to be drawn to this concern. Today, through this blog post, we will shed light on how animal extinction can further fuel up environmental crises and also share a few remedial measures to bring the situation under control.
The Connection Between Animal Extinction & Environmental Crises
-
Loss of Biodiversity:
We at the Tribhuvan College of Environment & Development Sciences have often stressed and initiated drives to prevent biodiversity loss because we could foresee its massive impact.
As discussed above, animal extinction leads to loss of biodiversity, thereby disturbing nature’s balance and shaking up the ecosystem’s equilibrium. You must be familiar with the domino affect, wherein the change in the quantum of one species directly affects other species in the food chain. Not to forget, the availability of resources, which get altered. Overall, this affects the environment’s framework to face changes and fight threats, which is why prevention of animal extinction has become the need of the hour.
-
Cascading Effect of Climate Change:
One of the leading environmental concerns that we as a planet have been collectively fighting is climate change. What many of you may not know is that animals have a pivotal role to play in fighting climate change.
For example, dense forest regions, which are home to a larger animal population help mitigate the impact of climate change as these animals help store carbon. In the process, this harmful greenhouse gas is prevented from being let out in the environment. It has been observed that rising global temperatures is one of the contributors to animal extinction. Hence, it can be derived that this is a vicious and interconnected cycle, which demands immediate breakage for a better tomorrow.
-
Impact on Food Webs:
Speaking about the environmental crises that animal extinction leads to, how can we overlook the disruption in the complex food webs caused by the extinction of certain species from the food chain.
Here, we at the Tribhuvan College of Environment & Development Sciences would like to draw your attention to how a disrupted food chain becomes responsible for serious problems such as biotic pollination. Going by the numbers, 80% of the plants rely on biotic pollination for the sake of reproduction. Since animals like bees carry out biotic pollination, a lack or end of it disturbs the floral diversity influencing its balance in the ecosystem, as well.
-
Disruption in Human Dynamics:
Right from our early days, we have been taught the need and importance for us humans to live in harmony with the flora and fauna on this planet. However, it seems like we have failed to stay true to our learning because animal extinction continues to remain a leading concern in today’s times.
However, how can we overlook the very fact that animal extinction directly impacts human livelihoods, which indirectly weakens the solidity of the environment? For example, people who derive their bread and butter from agriculture, fisheries, and tourism are heavily dependent on animals. However, the latter now standing on the verge of extinction, havoc is expected across local cultures and economies, which is why putting a full stop to animal extinction becomes a priority in the collective interest.
Can We Fight Animal Extinction? How?
If you have read the blog so far, we at the Tribhuvan College of Environment & Development Sciences, one of the leading environmental science colleges in Delhi NCR, would like to believe that you have a genuine interest in fighting back against animal extinction and protecting/preserving the environment.
Now, the question is – Can each one of us contribute to sorting the bigger problem? You’ll be happy to know that the answer is in the positive.
How? Let’s unfold.
Going by what the scientists have to say, if your very purpose is preserving wildlife, begin by preserving the areas and zones where the wildlife resides. These are the same areas where animals can easily find food, water, and shelter. Similarly, being mindful and raising an alarm about activities that lead to the overexploitation of animals shall prove equally helpful. Authorities and designated bodies also need to step in to strengthen environmental policies to an extent where every individual becomes accountable. Not to overlook the importance of education and awareness in fighting animal extinction.
All in all, the key lies in our dedicated, collaborative efforts. We are sure that if we all come together for the cause, we can surely end the impending environmental crises.