Qudrat Ullah1, Yasir Bilal1
1Departmental of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Fiasalabad
Abstract:
The role of humans in shaping Earth’s biodiversity has been significant, with evidence indicating that humans have impacted the planet’s biodiversity for thousands of years. Human activities such as habitat destruction, overexploitation of resources, pollution, and introduction of non-native species have led to a rapid decline in the number of species, loss of biodiversity and altered ecosystems. While some species have thrived in human-dominated landscapes, others have struggled to adapt to these changes. However, humans have also played a positive role in the conservation and restoration of biodiversity. Conservation efforts, such as protected areas, habitat restoration, and reintroduction of species, have helped to prevent extinctions and recover populations of endangered species.
Looking to the future, the role of humans in shaping Earth’s biodiversity will continue to be critical. With continued habitat destruction and climate change, it is essential to increase efforts to conserve and restore biodiversity. The importance of preserving biodiversity cannot be overstated, as it is essential for the functioning of ecosystems and provides a range of ecosystem services that benefit humans.
Introduction:
Biodiversity refers to the variety of all living organisms on Earth, including species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity. It is essential for maintaining the balance and stability of ecosystems, providing essential services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation, and supporting human well-being through the provision of food, medicine, and other resources (Haines-Young & Potschin, 2010; Kumar, 2012; Mutia, 2009; Oguh et al., 2021; Verma, 2017).
However, human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, overfishing, and climate change, are causing significant and widespread losses of biodiversity, threatening the ability of ecosystems to function and the survival of many species. According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, one million species are at risk of extinction, with current rates of extinction being tens to hundreds of times higher than the average over the past 10 million years (Ceballos et al., 2020; Mooney et al., 2009; Verma et al., 2020; Watson et al., 2019).
It is crucial to take urgent action to protect and restore biodiversity, including through conservation measures, sustainable use of natural resources, and mitigation of climate change. Failure to do so could have severe consequences for human well-being, including increased risk of infectious diseases, food insecurity, and social and economic instability. Thus, preserving biodiversity is not only a moral and ethical imperative but also a matter of our own survival as a species (Lunney, 2012; Nziguheba et al., 2015; Pecl et al., 2017; Rieckmann, 2018). humans
Humans’ historical role in shaping biodiversity:
Throughout history, humans have played a significant role in shaping biodiversity. The earliest human impact on biodiversity dates back to the emergence of modern humans, around 200,000 years ago. As human populations grew, they began to hunt and gather resources, leading to the extinction of many large mammals, such as the woolly mammoth and the saber-toothed cat. The Agricultural Revolution, which began around 10,000 years ago, marked a significant shift in human impact on biodiversity.
Humans began domesticating plants and animals, leading to the creation of agriculture and the domestication of crops and livestock. This led to significant changes in ecosystems, as natural habitats were cleared to make way for agricultural land, and native species were replaced by domesticated ones (Blondel, 2006; Dawson, 2016; Goudie, 2018; Koch & Barnosky, 2006; Majolo, 2019; Vergara, 2018). humans
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, marked a significant increase in human impact on biodiversity. With the advent of new technologies, humans began to extract resources at a previously unimaginable scale, leading to widespread deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction. This, in turn, led to the extinction of many species, including the passenger pigeon and the Tasmanian tiger. humans
The modern era has seen an even greater increase in human impact on biodiversity, with climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing leading to widespread loss of species and ecosystem collapse. Human actions have also led to the introduction of invasive species, which can outcompete and displace native species, leading to further loss of biodiversity (Evans Ogden, 2014; Josephson, 2004; Mooney et al., 2009; Price et al., 2011; Rose, 2015; Shiferaw et al., 2018). humans
Despite the negative impacts of human activities on biodiversity, there have also been some positive contributions. For example, conservation efforts and the creation of protected areas have helped to preserve threatened species and habitats. Efforts to reduce carbon emissions and limit climate change can also help to mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on biodiversity. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of biodiversity loss and to create a sustainable future for both humans and the natural world (Kremen et al., 1994; Scheske et al., 2019).
Current state of biodiversity:
The current state of global biodiversity is alarming, with estimates suggesting that up to one million species are at risk of extinction due to a range of human-induced factors. These include habitat loss and degradation, climate change, pollution, overexploitation of natural resources, and the introduction of invasive species. The loss of biodiversity has profound implications for human wellbeing, as ecosystems provide a range of essential services, such as food and water provision, climate regulation, and cultural and spiritual benefits (Clarkson et al., 2013; Pereira et al., 2012; Smith et al., 2009).
Conservation efforts to mitigate the threats to biodiversity are diverse and range from habitat restoration and protection, to the regulation of hunting and fishing, to the creation of conservation areas and the establishment of international agreements and policies. Despite these efforts, however, the effectiveness of conservation measures remains highly variable, with many species and ecosystems continuing to decline or face extinction. Furthermore, there are significant challenges associated with implementing effective conservation measures, including limited funding, competing interests, and social and cultural barriers (Dulvy et al., 2016; Dunlop, 2019; Emerton et al., 2006; Game et al., 2009; Lucas et al., 2017; Mace et al., 2008; Sneed et al., 1997).
To address these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the need for more comprehensive and integrated approaches to conservation that address the root causes of biodiversity loss, involve local communities in decision-making processes, and prioritize the conservation of biodiversity in development planning.
While there are examples of successful conservation efforts, such as the recovery of the bald eagle in the United States and the protection of gorillas in Africa, there is a long way to go to achieve the ambitious global conservation targets set by the United Nations, such as the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and the Sustainable Development Goals. Without urgent and sustained action, the loss of biodiversity will have far-reaching and devastating consequences for both people and the planet (Balram et al., 2004; Myers, 1993; Sher, 2022; Wynberg, 2002).
Future of biodiversity:
The future of biodiversity is uncertain and potential scenarios range from catastrophic loss of species to successful conservation efforts leading to an increase in biodiversity. The however, technological advancements such as gene editing, synthetic biology, and artificial intelligence offer new possibilities for conservation efforts (Teixeira & Huber, 2021; Young et al., 2010). For instance, gene editing could help restore lost or damaged genetic diversity in endangered species, while synthetic biology could provide innovative solutions for ecosystem restoration (Coleman et al., 2020).
Artificial intelligence can be used to analyze large data sets and identify areas in need of conservation efforts. However, the success of these technological approaches will depend on their ethical considerations and effectiveness in addressing root causes of biodiversity loss. Ultimately, the future of biodiversity will depend on human actions, as they are the primary drivers of the ongoing extinction crisis. While governments and organizations play a crucial role in implementing conservation policies and initiatives, individual actions, such as reducing carbon footprint and supporting sustainable practices, can also make a significant difference.
It is important to recognize that biodiversity provides essential ecosystem services, such as clean water and air, food production, and climate regulation, which are critical to human well-being. Therefore, proactive conservation efforts and responsible human actions are necessary to shape a positive future for biodiversity (Daba & Dejene, 2018; Seddon et al., 2021; Sheppard, 2005; Sodhi et al., 2009; Vinuesa et al., 2020).
Conclusion:
Humans have played a significant role in shaping Earth’s biodiversity, both in the past and present, and will continue to do so in the future. Over the course of history, humans have altered the natural environment through activities such as hunting, fishing, agriculture, and urbanization, leading to changes in species distribution and abundance. In the present, human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change pose significant threats to biodiversity, resulting in the extinction of species and loss of ecosystems.
However, humans can also play a positive role in biodiversity conservation through practices such as habitat restoration, captive breeding, and protected area management. The future of Earth’s biodiversity will depend on how humans choose to interact with the natural world, including their use of resources, management of ecosystems, and response to global environmental challenges. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize conservation efforts and promote sustainable practices to ensure the continued existence and health of Earth’s biodiversity for generations to come.
References:
Balram, S., Dragićević, S., & Meredith, T. (2004). A collaborative GIS method for integrating local and technical knowledge in establishing biodiversity conservation priorities. Biodiversity & Conservation, 13, 1195-1208.
Blondel, J. (2006). The ‘design’of Mediterranean landscapes: a millennial story of humans and ecological systems during the historic period. Human ecology, 34, 713-729.
Ceballos, G., Ehrlich, P. R., & Raven, P. H. (2020). Vertebrates on the brink as indicators of biological annihilation and the sixth mass extinction. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 117(24), 13596-13602.
Clarkson, B. R., Ausseil, A.-G. E., & Gerbeaux, P. (2013). Wetland ecosystem services. Ecosystem services in New Zealand: conditions and trends. Manaaki Whenua Press, Lincoln, 1, 192-202.
Coleman, M. A., Wood, G., Filbee-Dexter, K., Minne, A. J., Goold, H. D., Vergés, A., . . . Wernberg, T. (2020). Restore or redefine: Future trajectories for restoration. Frontiers in Marine Science, 7, 237.
Daba, M. H., & Dejene, S. W. (2018). The role of biodiversity and ecosystem services in carbon sequestration and its implication for climate change mitigation. Environmental Sciences and Natural Resources, 11(2), 1-10.
Dawson, A. (2016). Extinction: A radical history: Or Books.
Dulvy, N. K., Davidson, L. N., Kyne, P. M., Simpfendorfer, C. A., Harrison, L. R., Carlson, J. K., & Fordham, S. V. (2016). Ghosts of the coast: global extinction risk and conservation of sawfishes. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 26(1), 134-153.
Dunlop, T. (2019). Mind the gap: A social sciences review of energy efficiency. Energy research & social science, 56, 101216.
Emerton, L., Bishop, J., & Thomas, L. (2006). Sustainable Financing of Protected Areas: A global review of challenges and options.
Evans Ogden, L. (2014). Extinction is forever… or is it? BioScience, 64(6), 469-475.
Game, E. T., Grantham, H. S., Hobday, A. J., Pressey, R. L., Lombard, A. T., Beckley, L. E., . . . Richardson, A. J. (2009). Pelagic protected areas: the missing dimension in ocean conservation. Trends in ecology & evolution, 24(7), 360-369.
Goudie, A. S. (2018). Human impact on the natural environment: John Wiley & Sons.
Haines-Young, R., & Potschin, M. (2010). The links between biodiversity, ecosystem services and human well-being. Ecosystem Ecology: a new synthesis, 1, 110-139.
Josephson, P. R. (2004). Resources under regimes: technology, environment, and the state: Harvard University Press.
Koch, P. L., & Barnosky, A. D. (2006). Late Quaternary extinctions: state of the debate. Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics, 37.
Kremen, C., Merenlender, A. M., & Murphy, D. D. (1994). Ecological monitoring: a vital need for integrated conservation and development programs in the tropics. Conservation biology, 8(2), 388-397.
Kumar, P. (2012). The economics of ecosystems and biodiversity: ecological and economic foundations: Routledge.
Lucas, H., Fifita, S., Talab, I., Marschel, C., & Cabeza, L. F. (2017). Critical challenges and capacity building needs for renewable energy deployment in Pacific Small Island Developing States (Pacific SIDS). Renewable Energy, 107, 42-52.
Lunney, D. (2012). Wildlife management and the debate on the ethics of animal use. II. A challenge for the animal protection movement. Pacific Conservation Biology, 18(2), 81-99.
Mace, G. M., Collar, N. J., Gaston, K. J., Hilton‐Taylor, C., Akçakaya, H. R., Leader‐Williams, N., . . . Stuart, S. N. (2008). Quantification of extinction risk: IUCN’s system for classifying threatened species. Conservation biology, 22(6), 1424-1442.
Majolo, B. (2019). Warfare in an evolutionary perspective. Evolutionary anthropology: issues, news, and reviews, 28(6), 321-331.
Mooney, H., Larigauderie, A., Cesario, M., Elmquist, T., Hoegh-Guldberg, O., Lavorel, S., . . . Yahara, T. (2009). Biodiversity, climate change, and ecosystem services. Current opinion in environmental sustainability, 1(1), 46-54.
Mutia, T. M. (2009). Biodiversity conservation. Short Course IV on Exploration for Geothermal Resources, 1-22.
Myers, N. (1993). Ultimate security: The environmental basis of political stability. New York, 8.
Nziguheba, G., Vargas, R., Bationo, A., Black, H., Buschiazzo, D., Brogniez, D. d., . . . Termansen, M. (2015). Soil carbon: a critical natural resource-wide-scale goals, urgent actions Soil carbon: Science, management and policy for multiple benefits (pp. 10-25): CABI Wallingford UK.
Oguh, C., Obiwulu, E., Umezinwa, O., Ameh, S., Ugwu, C., & Sheshi, I. (2021). Ecosystem and ecological services; need for biodiversity conservation—A critical review. Asian Journal of Biology, 11(4), 1-14.
Pecl, G. T., Araújo, M. B., Bell, J. D., Blanchard, J., Bonebrake, T. C., Chen, I.-C., . . . Evengård, B. (2017). Biodiversity redistribution under climate change: Impacts on ecosystems and human well-being. Science, 355(6332), eaai9214.
Pereira, H. M., Navarro, L. M., & Martins, I. S. (2012). Global biodiversity change: the bad, the good, and the unknown. Annual Review of Environment and Resources, 37, 25-50.
Price, S. J., Ford, J. R., Cooper, A. H., & Neal, C. (2011). Humans as major geological and geomorphological agents in the Anthropocene: the significance of artificial ground in Great Britain. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences, 369(1938), 1056-1084.
Rieckmann, M. (2018). Key themes in education for sustainable development. Issues and trends in education for sustainable development, 61-84.
Rose, N. L. (2015). Spheroidal carbonaceous fly ash particles provide a globally synchronous stratigraphic marker for the Anthropocene. Environmental science & technology, 49(7), 4155-4162.
Scheske, C., Arroyo Rodriguez, M., Buttazzoni, J. E., Strong‐Cvetich, N., Gelcich, S., Monteferri, B., . . . Ruiz, M. (2019). Surfing and marine conservation: Exploring surf‐break protection as IUCN protected area categories and other effective area‐based conservation measures. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 29, 195-211.
Seddon, N., Smith, A., Smith, P., Key, I., Chausson, A., Girardin, C., . . . Turner, B. (2021). Getting the message right on nature‐based solutions to climate change. Global Change Biology, 27(8), 1518-1546.
Sheppard, S. R. (2005). Landscape visualisation and climate change: the potential for influencing perceptions and behaviour. Environmental science & policy, 8(6), 637-654.
Sher, A. (2022). An introduction to conservation biology: Oxford University Press.
Shiferaw, W., Demissew, S., & Bekele, T. (2018). Invasive alien plant species in Ethiopia: ecological impacts on biodiversity a review paper. Int J Mol Biol, 3(4), 171-178.
Smith, K. F., Acevedo‐Whitehouse, K., & Pedersen, A. B. (2009). The role of infectious diseases in biological conservation. Animal conservation, 12(1), 1-12.
Sneed, P., Nietschmann, B., & Herlihy, P. (1997). Conservation through cultural survival: Indigenous peoples and protected areas: Island Press.
Sodhi, N. S., Brook, B. W., & Bradshaw, C. J. (2009). Causes and consequences of species extinctions. The Princeton guide to ecology, 1(1), 514-520.
Teixeira, J. C., & Huber, C. D. (2021). The inflated significance of neutral genetic diversity in conservation genetics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 118(10), e2015096118.
Vergara, G. (2018). Animals in Latin American History Oxford research encyclopedia of Latin American history.
Verma, A. (2017). Genetic Diversity as Buffer in Biodiversity. Indian Journal of Biology, 4(1).
Verma, A. K., Rout, P. R., Lee, E., Bhunia, P., Bae, J., Surampalli, R. Y., . . . Chen, Y. (2020). Biodiversity and sustainability. Sustainability: Fundamentals and Applications, 255-275.
Vinuesa, R., Azizpour, H., Leite, I., Balaam, M., Dignum, V., Domisch, S., . . . Fuso Nerini, F. (2020). The role of artificial intelligence in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Nature communications, 11(1), 233.
Watson, R., Baste, I., Larigauderie, A., Leadley, P., Pascual, U., Baptiste, B., . . . Fazel, A. (2019). Summary for policymakers of the global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services. IPBES Secretariat: Bonn, Germany, 22-47.
Wynberg, R. (2002). A decade of biodiversity conservation and use in South Africa: tracking progress from the Rio Earth Summit to the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development. South African Journal of Science, 98(5), 233-243.
Young, J. C., Marzano, M., White, R. M., McCracken, D. I., Redpath, S. M., Carss, D. N., . . . Watt, A. D. (2010). The emergence of biodiversity conflicts from biodiversity impacts: characteristics and management strategies. Biodiversity and Conservation, 19, 3973-3990.
(qudratullahmpur2@gmail.com) 1, (yasirbilalsdk@gmail.com) 2
Check Other Schlorships:
