Hindu Editorial Analysis : 2-November-2024

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has recently published its Living Planet Report 2024. This report highlights a worrying trend in wildlife populations, showing a dramatic decline over the past 50 years. From 1970 to 2020, monitored wildlife populations have dropped by an alarming 73%.

Key Findings

Wildlife Population Decline
  • Overall Decline: The average decline in wildlife populations is 73%.
  • Freshwater Species: These species have been hit the hardest, with an 85% decrease.
  • Terrestrial and Marine Species: Terrestrial wildlife has declined by 69%, while marine species have seen a 56% drop.
Main Threats to Wildlife

The report identifies several major threats to wildlife:

  • Habitat Loss: Driven by food systems and urban expansion.
  • Overexploitation: Unsustainable hunting and fishing practices.
  • Invasive Species: Non-native species disrupting local ecosystems.
  • Pollution: Industrial waste and plastic harming natural habitats, especially in Asia and the Pacific.
Risks to Ecosystems

The decline in wildlife is alarming because it can lead to ecosystem tipping points. For instance:

  • Amazon Dieback: Loss of forests that can alter climate patterns.
  • Coral Reef Loss: This impacts marine life and global food security.

Wildlife Status in India

In India, certain species are critically endangered. Vulture populations have seen significant declines. However, conservation efforts have had some success:

  • Tiger Population: Increased to 3,682 in 2022.
  • Snow Leopards: 718 were assessed recently, showing some recovery.
Wetland Loss in Chennai

Chennai has lost 85% of its wetlands due to urban growth. This loss makes the region more vulnerable to flooding and drought. The Tamil Nadu Wetland Mission aims to restore these vital ecosystems.

Impacts of Wildlife Decline

Ecosystem Imbalance

Wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. When species decline, it disrupts:

  • Predator-Prey Relationships: This can lead to overpopulation of certain species and extinction of others.
  • Pollination and Nutrient Cycles: Critical processes that support life and agriculture.
Loss of Biodiversity

Decreased wildlife leads to reduced genetic diversity. This impacts:

  • Ecosystem Resilience: A less diverse ecosystem struggles to adapt to changes, diseases, and disasters.
Threats to Food Security

Wildlife contributes to food systems:

  • Pollination: Species like bees are vital for crop yields.
  • Pest Control: Natural predators help manage pests.
Economic Consequences

Many industries depend on healthy ecosystems:

  • Agriculture, Fishing, and Tourism: Wildlife declines can harm these sectors, resulting in job losses.
Cultural and Social Impact

Wildlife is significant for cultural identity and recreation:

  • Loss of Iconic Species: This can diminish cultural heritage and reduce tourism opportunities.

Challenges to Conservation

Despite global efforts, current actions are insufficient. Major challenges include:

  • Habitat Loss: Due to agriculture and urbanization.
  • Climate Change: Alters habitats and food availability.
  • Overexploitation: Unsustainable resource use threatens species.
  • Pollution: Harms wildlife and habitats.
  • Invasive Species: Can lead to declines in native populations.
  • Funding and Resources: Often limited for conservation efforts.
  • Weak Policy Enforcement: Poorly enforced laws hinder conservation.
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increased encroachment into natural areas leads to conflicts.
  • Loss of Genetic Diversity: Reduces species’ resilience and increases extinction risks.
  • Awareness Gaps: Limited public understanding affects support for conservation.

Why In News

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)’s Living Planet Report 2024 reveals a drastic 73% decrease in the average size of monitored wildlife populations over the past 50 years, from 1970 to 2020, underscoring a profound crisis in biodiversity that threatens ecosystems and human well-being worldwide.

MCQs about Understanding the Living Planet Report 2024

  1. Which group of species has experienced the most significant decline according to the report?
    A. Marine species
    B. Terrestrial species
    C. Freshwater species
    D. Bird species
    Correct Answer: C. Freshwater species
    Explanation: The report highlights that freshwater species have seen the largest decline, with an 85% decrease, compared to terrestrial and marine species.
  2. What is one major threat to wildlife populations identified in the report?
    A. Climate Change
    B. Urbanization
    C. Pollution
    D. All of the above
    Correct Answer: D. All of the above
    Explanation: The report lists several threats to wildlife, including habitat loss due to urbanization, pollution, and the impacts of climate change.
  3. How does the decline in wildlife populations impact food security?
    A. It has no impact.
    B. It improves food security by reducing pests.
    C. It threatens food systems by affecting pollination and pest control.
    D. It leads to increased crop yields.
    Correct Answer: C. It threatens food systems by affecting pollination and pest control.
    Explanation: The decline in wildlife populations, especially pollinators like bees, directly affects agricultural productivity and food security.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading