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FAQs on Biodiversity Loss - Geography Optional for UPSC

1. What are the main causes of biodiversity loss?
Ans. The main causes of biodiversity loss include habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, overexploitation of resources, and invasive species. Habitat destruction, often due to urbanization and agriculture, leads to the fragmentation of ecosystems. Climate change alters habitats and threatens species survival. Pollution affects air, water, and soil quality, harming wildlife. Overexploitation involves unsustainable hunting, fishing, and logging practices. Invasive species can outcompete native species, leading to declines in local biodiversity.
2. How does biodiversity loss impact ecosystems?
Ans. Biodiversity loss significantly impacts ecosystems by disrupting the balance of food webs and ecosystem services. Each species plays a unique role in its ecosystem, contributing to processes like pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control. When species disappear, it can lead to the collapse of these processes, resulting in reduced ecosystem productivity and resilience. This can affect human well-being, as many ecosystem services are vital for agriculture, clean water, and disease regulation.
3. What are the consequences of biodiversity loss for human health?
Ans. Biodiversity loss can have direct and indirect consequences for human health. A decline in biodiversity can lead to the emergence of new diseases, as ecosystems that are less diverse may lack natural checks on disease-carrying organisms. Additionally, the loss of medicinal plants and animals can limit the development of new medicines. Furthermore, reduced biodiversity can compromise food security and access to clean water, both of which are essential for maintaining public health.
4. What measures can be taken to prevent biodiversity loss?
Ans. To prevent biodiversity loss, several measures can be implemented, including the establishment of protected areas, promoting sustainable land-use practices, restoring degraded habitats, and enforcing laws against poaching and illegal trade. Public awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in educating communities about the importance of biodiversity. Additionally, international cooperation is essential to address transboundary issues and protect migratory species.
5. What role do governments play in addressing biodiversity loss?
Ans. Governments play a critical role in addressing biodiversity loss through policy-making, funding conservation initiatives, and implementing international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity. They can create and enforce regulations to protect endangered species and habitats, promote sustainable development, and support scientific research on biodiversity. By integrating biodiversity considerations into national planning and development policies, governments can help ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of ecological health.
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