Biodiversity

Definition
 Biodiversity is defined as the totality of genes, species
and ecosystems in a defined area. Everything from the
smallest single-celled organism to the largest apex
predator makes up the biodiversity of a given area
Biodiversity loss
 Biodiversity loss is the death of those ecosystems.
 Either the entire ecosystem is destroyed because of

human intervention — including deforestation, urban

development and farming — or enough key species in
an ecosystem die that the ecosystem collapses on its
own.
 It's estimated that in the last four decades, we've lost

more than 50 percent of the planet's biodiversity.

 If the fact that we might lose more than 50 percent of

the planet's plants and animals in just 32 years

Natural causes for loss of Biodiversity

 Forest fires
 floods and
 Volcanic

 However, these natural types of biodiversity

loss are normal 
 Causes for Biodiversity loss
 Deforestation: When we cut down a forest to use its
lumber, or claim the land for agricultural purposes, we
are destroying unique ecosystems that can't exist
anywhere else.
 Invasive Species: Species introduced in an area where

they have no natural predators can decimate an

ecosystem. Good examples of this are the
pythons in the Florida Everglades and
lionfish in the Gulf of Mexico.
 Pollution: Garbage dumped into the water supply,
chemical runoff from industrial applications, and air
pollution from cars and factories all have a negative
effect.
 Climate Change: Changes in the climate can happen

naturally over millions of years. This time, climate

change has been the result of human intervention. It's
happening too quickly, and species can't adapt quickly
enough, so they're dying out.
 Overfishing: It's difficult to put a number on
overfishing because most of the ocean is still
unexplored, but it's estimated that anywhere from
60 to 90 percent of the ocean has been overfished or is
on the verge of collapse.
 Overpopulation: There are currently 7.4 billion people

on the planet. Experts estimate that the planet is only

How to Reverse Biodiversity Loss

 Recycle, Recycle, Recycle: Purchase products that are

made with recycled materials. Plastic, paper, wood and

metal can all be recycled.

 Buy Sustainable: Buying fish that has been

sustainably harvested. Avoid fish that are endangered

like Bluefin tuna.

 Go Package-Free: Plastic packaging is one of the biggest
wastes we experience on a daily basis. Bring your own bags,
jars and other reusable packaging to buy dry ingredients in
bulk.
 Compost:  Try setting up a compost pile for your organic
waste. Not only does it keep your trash out of landfills, but it
also makes killer natural fertilizer for flowers and plants — no
chemicals needed.
 Drive Green: Carpooling, public transportation, riding a bike or

walking where you can.

 Protect Local Habitats and Make Wildlife Welcome: Take the time

to clean up animal habitats, like beaches, forests and other undeveloped

areas. Make your area welcoming for wildlife. Bird houses, bat houses

and other housing can be great, as can planting local flora and turning

your backyard into your own personal wildlife sanctuary.

 .
 Volunteer: There are probably plenty of organizations in your area that are working

toward a greener tomorrow. Volunteer your time and help improve the area where you

live.
 Stand Up: Big companies are starting to get the picture, but there are still plenty that will

exploit natural resources if given a chance. If you've got a big development company

moving into your area that wants to cut down forests or drain local wetlands, it's up you to

stand up and rally others to stand up to prevent this.

 Donate: If donating your time isn't enough, consider donating some money to nonprofit

organizations that are fighting to protect biodiversity around the world.

There are many organizations that protect land, sea, and air in favor of a better tomorrow
Natural Resources