The sixth mass extinction has begun, and without decisive action, we face the risk of losing millions of plant and animal species. Humans, like other species, depend on ecosystems for survival. Protecting biodiversity is not just about preserving nature but also about safeguarding our own existence.
Approximately 65 million years ago, a mass extinction event occurred, wiping out more than 75% of species on Earth, including the dinosaurs. In the 4.5 billion-year history of our planet, there have only been five such mass extinction events.
However, currently, we are facing the threat of the sixth extinction – a crisis primarily caused by human activities. It is predicted that by the end of this century, many species on Earth could vanish. This raises the question: can humanity survive this extinction event, or will we share the same fate as the millions of species that are disappearing?
Survival Depends on Biodiversity
One of the crucial factors that allow life on Earth to thrive and survive over millions of years is biodiversity. Every species, from towering trees and large animals to strange plants, tiny fungi, and even insects invisible to the naked eye, contributes to the overall ecosystem. Together, they maintain balance and promote life on our planet.
Currently, humanity is facing the risk of the sixth extinction.
However, this balance is severely threatened by unsustainable human activities. Wildlife around the world is currently facing extinction rates 10,000 times faster than the natural rate. Without drastic measures, not only other species but we ourselves could face the risk of extinction.
The Solution to the Crisis: “The Half-Earth Idea”
One proposed solution to address the risk of the sixth mass extinction is the “Half-Earth Idea” by E.O. Wilson, a renowned biologist and Pulitzer Prize winner. He suggests that we should protect half of the Earth’s surface, designating this area as “human-free” so that nature can recover and restore ecological balance. This idea aims to protect plant and animal species from human-induced destruction while allowing the natural environment to self-regulate.
However, implementing the “Half-Earth Idea” is not easy. With the current global population exceeding 8 billion, limiting living space to just half could have significant repercussions. It is estimated that if this were to be implemented, around one billion people would need to relocate – mostly low-income individuals. The redistribution of the population would place immense pressure on densely populated areas, exacerbating the problem of overpopulation.
Food and Economic Challenges
Not only is housing a concern, but protecting half of the Earth also poses significant challenges regarding food and water resources. Currently, one-third of the Earth’s surface and 75% of our freshwater resources are used for agricultural and livestock production. Nevertheless, 10% of the world’s population still faces food insecurity. If arable land is reduced to conserve nature, hunger could become even more severe.
Economically, industries such as forestry and fuel could collapse as resources dwindle. Millions could lose their jobs, leading to economic and social crises. However, alongside these losses, new opportunities may arise in more sustainable sectors. Technologies and industries focused on environmental protection can create jobs and promote green economic development.
Protecting biodiversity is protecting human livelihoods.
Ecological Challenges and Economic Benefits
One thing that cannot be overlooked is the economic value of biodiversity. Currently, approximately $577 billion in global crops are at risk due to pollinator loss, a process performed by insect species such as bees. Additionally, about 40% of the world’s economy relies on biological resources. Without protection, pollinators and many other biological resources could disappear, plunging industries that depend on them into crisis.
Therefore, protecting biodiversity is not just about environmental conservation; it is also about safeguarding human livelihoods. Conserving plant and animal species helps maintain healthy ecosystems, which in turn provide clean water, regulate climate, maintain fertile soil, and recycle essential nutrients.
Action is Necessary
Evidence shows that the greater the biodiversity, the healthier and more stable the ecosystem. If we continue to diminish biodiversity, not only animals but humanity itself will face catastrophic consequences. We must recognize that all species on Earth are closely interconnected, and the extinction of one species brings us closer to our own extinction.
Although the “Half-Earth Idea” may seem challenging to implement and even impractical, if we do nothing to protect our planet, the consequences will be far worse. Implementing environmental protection measures is not just the responsibility of leaders and governments; it is also the duty of each individual. Every small action contributes to the preservation of life on this planet.
