MEVE 019: Unit 05 - Threats to Biodiversity

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 UNIT 5: THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY

Introduction

Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems. It is essential for ecosystem services that sustain all forms of life including humans. However, biodiversity is under serious threat due to various natural and human-induced factors. This unit explores the causes, extent, and impact of biodiversity loss and outlines the strategies and efforts needed for its conservation.

Objectives

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

·         Understand the concept and importance of biodiversity.

·         Identify the main causes and drivers of biodiversity loss.

·         Recognize the environmental and socio-economic impacts of biodiversity decline.

·         Learn about strategies and legal frameworks for biodiversity conservation.

5.1 Biodiversity

Biodiversity includes all living organisms — plants, animals, and microorganisms — and the ecosystems they form. It is crucial for ecological balance, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of humans.

5.3.1 Role of Biodiversity

Biodiversity maintains ecosystem productivity, provides essential goods (like food, medicine, fuel), ensures ecosystem services (like pollination, climate regulation), and supports cultural and recreational values.

5.4 Causes of Biodiversity Loss

Loss of biodiversity occurs due to a variety of interconnected factors. The major causes include habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation, climate change, and introduction of invasive species.

5.5 Drivers of Biodiversity Loss

5.5.1 Land Use Change

Conversion of forests, wetlands, and grasslands into agricultural fields, urban spaces, or industrial zones leads to habitat fragmentation and destruction.

5.5.2 Invasion of Exotic Species

Non-native species introduced accidentally or intentionally may outcompete native species, disrupt food chains, and alter habitats.

5.5.3 Global Climate Change

Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events affect species’ survival, breeding, and migration patterns.

5.5.4 Pollution, Synthetic Chemicals, and Heavy Metals

Air, water, and soil pollution damage habitats and directly affect flora and fauna. Persistent chemicals like pesticides and heavy metals bioaccumulate and poison ecosystems.

5.5.5 Overexploitation

Unsustainable hunting, fishing, logging, and harvesting of wild species for food, fuel, or medicine reduce population sizes drastically.

5.5.6 Increasing Wildlife Trade

Illegal and unregulated trade in animals, plants, and their parts leads to population decline and endangers rare species.

5.6 Extent of Biodiversity Loss

5.6.1 Loss at Species and Population Level

Many species are threatened or endangered, with some already extinct. Loss of genetic diversity within populations reduces their adaptability.

5.6.2 Loss at Ecosystem Level

Whole ecosystems are being destroyed or degraded, leading to collapse of ecosystem functions.

5.6.3 Economic Cost of Biodiversity Loss

Biodiversity loss leads to reduced productivity in agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and medicine, with huge economic consequences for livelihoods and national economies.

5.7 Intensity of Biodiversity Loss

Biodiversity loss is happening at an unprecedented rate globally. Studies estimate that species are going extinct 100 to 1000 times faster than natural rates due to human activities.

5.8 Impacts of Biodiversity Loss

5.8.1 On the Environment

5.8.1.1 Ecosystem Structure and Function

Loss of keystone species alters food webs, nutrient cycles, and ecosystem resilience.

5.8.1.2 Ecosystem Services

Reduced biodiversity affects services like pollination, water purification, and disease control.

5.8.2 On Humans

5.8.2.1 Food Security

Decline in pollinators and genetic resources impacts crop yields and food supply.

5.8.2.2 Vulnerability

Communities become more vulnerable to floods, droughts, and other climate impacts.

5.8.2.3 Health

Loss of biodiversity can increase disease transmission and limit availability of medicinal resources.

5.8.2.4 Energy Security

Reduced access to biomass and alternative energy sources affects rural and indigenous populations.

5.8.2.5 Provision of Clean Water

Deforestation and pollution reduce freshwater availability and quality.

5.8.2.6 Social Relations

Cultural identities tied to native biodiversity are at risk of being lost.

5.8.2.7 Freedom of Choice and Action

Loss of biological resources limits options for current and future generations.

5.8.2.8 Basic Materials for a Good Life and Sustainable Livelihoods

Biodiversity underpins sustainable livelihoods in agriculture, forestry, and tourism.

5.9 Biodiversity Conservation

Conservation efforts aim to maintain and restore biodiversity to ensure ecosystem health and human well-being.

5.9.1 Global Biodiversity Hotspots in India

India has four biodiversity hotspots: Himalayas, Western Ghats, Indo-Burma region, and Sundaland (Nicobar Islands).

5.9.2 Ecosystem Diversity of India

India’s diverse geography hosts forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts, and marine ecosystems, each with unique biodiversity.

5.9.3 Fundamentals of Biodiversity Conservation

5.9.3.1 Habitat and Landscape Management

Efforts include protecting natural habitats, restoring degraded areas, and promoting sustainable land-use practices.

5.9.3.2 Tools Used in Biodiversity Management

GIS mapping, species monitoring, legal tools, and community-based conservation approaches are commonly used.

5.9.4 Conservation Categories

Species are categorized (e.g., endangered, vulnerable) to prioritize conservation action based on threat levels.

5.9.5 Strategies for Conserving Biodiversity

Strategies include:

·         Protected area management

·         Eco-restoration

·         Ex-situ and in-situ conservation

·         Environmental education and awareness

·         Legal regulations and policy support

5.10 Conventions and Laws on Biodiversity Conservation

5.10.1 International Conventions

Important conventions include:

·         Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

·         CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)

·         Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

5.10.2 India’s Policy Framework

5.10.2.1 Constitutional Provisions

Article 48A and 51A(g) emphasize environmental protection.

5.10.2.2 National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP) – India

Provides a framework for biodiversity planning at national and state levels.

5.10.2.3 Sectoral Policies Formulated in India

Policies in forestry, wildlife, water, and agriculture address biodiversity issues.

5.10.2.4 Ministries/Boards/Authorities/Institutions

MoEFCC, State Biodiversity Boards, National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), and research institutions play key roles.

5.11 Protected Areas of India

India has a network of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, conservation reserves, and community reserves for in-situ conservation of biodiversity.

5.12 Types of Conservation

5.12.1 In-situ Conservation

Protection of species in their natural habitats (e.g., national parks, wildlife sanctuaries).

5.12.2 On-farm Conservation

Maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming systems at community level.

5.12.3 Ex-situ Conservation

Conserving species outside their natural habitats (e.g., gene banks, botanical gardens, zoos).

5.13 Let Us Sum Up

Biodiversity is essential for the functioning of ecosystems and human survival. Yet, it is under severe threat due to multiple anthropogenic activities. Understanding the causes, impacts, and strategies for biodiversity conservation is crucial for sustainable development. Governments, organizations, communities, and individuals must work together to protect biodiversity and ensure a healthy planet for future generations.

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