As a child, I imagined a world where we could talk, sit, wine, and dine with animals, and give them the respect they deserved. Growing up, that feeling started to dwindle and my expectations were lowered, realizing they were all fantasies never to be satisfied.
Many don't really care about the safety of our wildlife as I did at some point in my life. We engage in activities that drive them into extinction and neglect the need for conservation. According to Earth Remainder, "an estimated 10,000 species have been lost every year, which accounts for half of the world's wildlife populations." This is a result of the horrid human intervention in their habitats. We don't stop on land, we also pollute the waters and pose a threat to marine life.
The Dodo was a flightless bird endemic to the island of Mauritius.
It became extinct in the late 17th century, primarily due to hunting by humans and the introduction of non-native species to the island.
African Elephants are facing growing challenges as their habitats are shrinking due to human activities such as agricultural expansion and infrastructure development. This encroachment by humans results in elephants being left with fragmented and isolated patches of land.
Why is it important to conserve wildlife?
1. Conservation protects wildlife and promotes biodiversity
Some species cannot survive outside of their natural habitat, not in zoos or aquariums, so destroying their natural habitat can be the beginning of an end for them. Not to mention their importance to man. Did you know that Cobra venom, for instance, is a vital ingredient in leprosy medications, and lobsters are used as anti-fungal treatments?
2. Conservation reduces human diseases
Animals are responsible for 60% of infectious diseases. The presence of animals outside their natural habitat increases the chances of diseases changing and “jumping” species. Humans and wildlife can coexist in peace if habitats are protected.
3. Conservation gives rise to a balanced ecosystem
Besides job creation and its significant impact on agriculture, it is also the pillar of natural evolution and it helps the ecosystem to stay in balance. It is essential for the interconnection of species which means eliminating one species could affect the food chain, resulting in a wide-scale extinction.
Nature-based solutions help
— UN Biodiversity (@UNBiodiversity) July 10, 2023
👉Protect
👉Conserve
👉Restore
👉Sustainably use and manage natural or modified terrestrial freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems
Here's a 📽️ on how international, national and local leaders can drive progress on NbS
Via @unepwcmc pic.twitter.com/PkZjSkzPii
Effective wildlife conservation is crucial for preserving biodiversity, protecting ecosystems, and maintaining the delicate balance of our planet. Through concerted efforts to protect habitats, combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade, and promote sustainable practices, we can ensure the survival and well-being of endangered species for future generations.
— Dolapo Johnson
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