Do we need an Endangered Ecosystems Act?
Many biologists believe we have instigated the 6th great extinction episode in Earth’s history; some estimate the pace of extinction has soared to 100,000 species a year. Renowned paleoanthropologist, Richard Leakey, believes half of the Earth’s species will vanish within 100 years and warns that this die-off could come sooner if greenhouse gases wreak havoc with the Earth’s climate. Preserving biodiversity is no longer an altruistic enterprise—it’s a matter of human survival.
Endangered Species Act: Noah’s Ark or Titanic?.
The Berkeley Daily Planet
Ken Cole
Ken Cole is a 5th generation Idahoan, an avid fly fisherman, wildlife enthusiast, and photographer. He is the interim Idaho Director for Western Watersheds Project. We do not accept unsolicited “guest” authors or advertising.
This is a terrifying article and no one is paying attention! As the author explains, the survival of the human race is directly linked to the survival of all creatures and ecosystems. Why is that so hard to understand? We must all do our part to help nature withstand the onslaught of destruction.
When judging the ESA we should not only consider the few species that have recovered entirely but also those still protected that would now be extinct if not for the Act. Even if the act was fully supported by our goverment and fellow Americans it would still be a challenge to recover species that declined for decades prior to receving any protection. It is a good and effective law that is hampered by an apathetic public and the greed of special interests.
When framed as a fight for our survival as well I would hope more people will get a clue and act appropriately. The Gulf oil spills traumatic effect on people as well as the killing of wildlife should be a convincing argument to change our ways. Unfortunately, we’ve had many such lessons before and not enough people have heeded them.