VALUE OF BIODIVERSITY Flashcards
Biodiversity is fundamental to the stability and functioning of ecosystems. Each species, from plants to animals, plays a specific role—whether in pollination, nutrient cycling, or regulating the climate.
ecosystem functioning
Greater biodiversity often means that ecosystems are more resilient to environmental changes, such as climate
change, natural disasters, and human impacts. Diverse ecosystems are better able to recover from disturbances.
resilience of ecosystems
A diverse range of species ensures complex food webs, which help maintain ecological balance. When one species is removed, others can fill its ecological role, maintaining the system’s stability.
food webs and balance
Many industries rely on biodiversity for resources, such as timber, medicinal
plants, and agricultural crops. Fisheries, forestry, and agriculture are dependent on healthy, biodiverse ecosystems.
natural resources
Biodiversity supports eco-tourism,
which is a growing industry. Natural habitats, wildlife, and plants attract millions of tourists annually, contributing significantly to economies worldwide.
tourism
Biodiversity contributes to agricultural stability by promoting a variety of crops and livestock, enhancing food security, and
providing genetic resources for breeding better, more resilient varieties.
agricultural benefits
Many cultures, traditions, and practices are closely linked to biodiversity. Animals and plants play significant roles in religion,
art, folklore, and heritage.
cultural importance
The beauty and wonder of nature, including plants, animals, and landscapes, have intrinsic aesthetic value, inspiring art, music,
literature, and human creativity.
aesthetic value
Many of today’s medicines are derived from plants, fungi, and animals. Over 50% of modern pharmaceuticals are based on compounds found in nature. Biodiversity
loss threatens the discovery of new medicines and treatments.
medicinal resources
Healthy ecosystems provide services like water purification, air quality regulation, and disease regulation, all of which contribute to human well-being.
ecosystem services
Every species has intrinsic value, meaning they have the right to exist, regardless of their utility to humans. The ethical argument for biodiversity emphasizes our responsibility to protect other forms of life and preserve ecosystems for future generations.
right to exist
The ethical obligation to maintain biodiversity is also tied to the rights of future generations, ensuring they can benefit from the same natural resources and services that we do.
intergenerational equity
threats to biodiversity
habitat destruction and fragmentation
climate change
pollution
overexploitation
invasive species
disease
agricultural practices and land use
resource extraction
genetic erosion
