preservation of biodiversity

A detailed Summary of preservation of biodiversity

Human beings have inhabited Earth for just a blink of an eye. Almost any ecosystem can provide resources valuable to humans. "However, recent reports show that approximately 40 percent of the earth's land surface has been altered by humanity" (Becher). These altered surfaces have provided communities for humans, but the process has destroyed many native species and ecosystems. Global biodiversity is currently in danger. Estimates vary in how fast a species becomes extinct, from "one species per day to one species per hour" (Howes). In ancient times, geological activities and natural catastrophes would cause the extinction of species. But today, humans cause extinction through the manipulation of land use, pollution and etc. There are many reasons to preserve biodiversity such as medical advances, contributions to their ecosystem and much more. The primary arguments for preserving global biodiversity can be separated into two categories, human motives and natural existence.

"Preserving a diversity of life on Earth has come to be an accepted goal for many people" (Botkin/Keller). Four distinct categories why humans desire to preserve biodiversity are recreational, religious, aesthetic/emot

ive, and economic/intellectual reasons.

There are many reasons for preserving biodiversity because of recreation. Children love the sight of exotic animals and other species. The most accommodating site to view a wide variety of species is a zoo and other similar sites. These sites provide jobs and enjoyment for people of all ages. Recreation also means the poaching of animals whether or not they are rare.

The next reasons are aesthetic and emotive. These can be described by the positive sensations humans see and feel when viewing a living organism. A dollar amount cannot be placed upon these sensations. Beauty of an organism is not always based upon the same standards. Some people may find trees beautiful to view while others may find them taking up needless space. Current generations of species must be preserved so the future generations of children may enjoy what we enjoy today.

A tremendous amount of work has been dedicated to preserving biodiversity. But much more has to be done to eliminate the ignorance people hold against certain life- forms. Preserving the biosphere is something we can do. We can respond to direct and indirect manipulation habitats by writing to our government. We can support the many nonprofit organizations that encourage the preservation of biodiversity. What we cannot change are the dead habitats and the thousands of

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Approximate Word count = 930
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

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