The Planet in Danger: A 73% Decline in Wildlife Populations in Just 50 Years
A recent report by WWF and Zoological Society of London, the Living Planet Report 2024, reveals an alarming reality: since 1970, the average size of wildlife populations has decreased by 73%. This figure, highlighting the devastating impact of human activities on biodiversity, underscores the urgent need to act to protect the ecosystems essential for life on Earth.
An Uneven but Devastating Decline
Freshwater populations have suffered the most dramatic decline, with an 85% reduction. These species, crucial for maintaining ecological balance, are particularly affected by river fragmentation and overexploitation. Regionally, Latin America and the Caribbean lead the list of losses, with an unprecedented 95% decrease. In other areas, Africa has seen a 76% drop, while Asia-Pacific records a 60% decline. In Europe and Central Asia, where many ecosystems were already degraded before 1970, the reduction has been 35%.
Main Causes and Points of No Return
The primary drivers of this decline include:
- Habitat loss and degradation: Driven mainly by intensive agriculture and urbanization.
- Overexploitation of resources: Such as fishing, hunting, and logging.
- Climate change: Accelerating the disappearance of vulnerable species, particularly in ecosystems like the Amazon and coral reefs.
- Pollution and invasive species: Growing threats to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
The report warns of nearing points of no return, such as the potential massive loss of the Amazon rainforest, which could transform into a savanna if 20-25% of its area is destroyed. This would have global consequences, impacting both climate and biodiversity.
Alternatives and Hope
Despite these troubling figures, there is reason for hope. The report highlights that some populations have stabilized due to conservation efforts, such as the creation of protected areas and species reintroductions. Additionally, transitioning to sustainable food and energy systems could help reverse these trends. Nature-based solutions, such as ecosystem restoration, are key to mitigating climate change and protecting biodiversity.
The Opinion of the Associació Vegana de Catalunya
At the Associació Vegana de Catalunya, we urgently call for a rethinking of our way of life. Biodiversity loss is not just an environmental issue but a reflection of an economic and social system that prioritizes excessive consumption over life itself. We advocate for plant-based diets and a radical shift in resource management. It is essential for institutions, businesses, and civil society to work together to protect what remains of our living planet.
This is a decisive moment for humanity. We must not only protect biodiversity but also understand that we are part of it. Safeguarding nature means ensuring the future of all species, including our own.