Almost three-quarters of wildlife lost due to human actions

Human activity is causing a significant decline in wildlife around the globe, according to a new report from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The Living Planet Report reveals that wildlife populations have decreased by an average of 73% in the past 50 years. The findings highlight critical threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, putting many ecosystems at risk.

For example, 60% of the Amazon's pink river dolphins have disappeared due to pollution and habitat destruction. Although there are some signs of recovery for species like mountain gorillas, WWF officials warn that these isolated successes are not enough to counterbalance the widespread destruction of habitats. The report emphasizes the urgent need for collective action to protect the natural world, as the loss of biodiversity poses a fundamental threat to humanity.

The report comes as world leaders prepare to meet at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference in Colombia to discuss measures to restore nature. Almost 200 countries have committed to a landmark 2022 UN agreement to address biodiversity loss, which includes a goal of setting aside 30% of the planet for nature by 2030. WWF leaders describe the situation as a wake-up call, urging governments and businesses to take responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations.

[Information sourced from the BBC]