Climate change causing loss of biodiversity at unprecedented levels, warns UN report
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A report by the United Nations has warned that the loss of biodiversity caused by climate change is occurring at unprecedented levels. The report highlights the devastating impact of global warming on ecosystems, wildlife, and humans.
The report, released by the UN's Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) in 2019, states that climate change is exacerbating the loss of biodiversity caused by other human activities such as deforestation, overfishing, and pollution.
"The loss of biodiversity and the impact of climate change are intertwined, and we cannot address one without addressing the other," said Sir Robert Watson, the chair of the IPBES. "The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated."
The report found that 1 million species are now at risk of extinction, with more than 40% of amphibian species, nearly one-third of reef-forming corals, and more than one-third of marine mammals at risk of disappearing. The loss of biodiversity not only affects wildlife but also has significant implications for human well-being, including food security and clean water supply.
"The impacts of the loss of biodiversity will be felt by future generations, and urgent action is needed to prevent further damage," said Anne Larigauderie, the executive secretary of the IPBES.
The report highlights the need for urgent action to address the root causes of biodiversity loss, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable land use practices. The report also calls for greater investment in conservation efforts and the restoration of damaged ecosystems.
"The time for action is now," said Inger Andersen, the executive director of the UN Environment Programme. "We need to act with urgency and ambition to protect the biodiversity that sustains our planet and ourselves."
The report's findings come ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), which will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in November. The conference is seen as a critical opportunity for world leaders to take bold action on climate change and biodiversity loss.
"We must use this moment to come together as a global community and take the bold actions needed to address the existential threats of climate change and biodiversity loss," said Alok Sharma, the president of COP26.
The report's findings are a wake-up call for governments, businesses, and individuals to take urgent action to address the impact of climate change on biodiversity. Failure to act now could have catastrophic consequences for the planet and future generations.