Morgen Wood: The Sixth Mass Extinction: A Human-Caused Crisis

     In my Biology class we recently discussed the concept of a sixth, human caused, mass extinction event. As we look at earth, it's hard to ignore the changes taking place in our environment. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and the exploitation of natural resources are altering the world we once knew. What's even more concerning is that many scientists now seem to agree that we are living through the sixth mass extinction event--one that is being caused primarily by human activity.  

        Human activities like habitat destruction, overhunting, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species are causing the rapid decline of species across the globe. According to the United Nations, we have already lost around 60% of the world's wildlife in the past 40 years. From the destruction of coral reefs to the declining populations of many species, ecosystems are crumbling at an alarming rate.

    Why does this matter? Biodiversity is the foundation of a healthy planet. When species vanish, vital services are put at risk, affecting every living being, including us. It's clear that this extinction event is not just a tragedy for the natural world but for humanity itself. We are not separate from nature, we are part of it. If we continue to push species to the brink, we will face consequences that will affect our own survival. The health of the planet is the health of humanity. We have the power to change the court of this extinction event, but only if we make a collective effort to restore balance with the natural world. 

    


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