Why Conserve Biodiversity?
Why Should We Care About Biodiversity? Intrinsic value: Definition: value based on existence, regardless of usefulness to humans. Protecting Biodiversity on this basis is an ethical decision
Instrumental value: economic and ecological services (Human Value) 2 Types: Use Value: Jobs, Food, Medicines, Pest control, Nutrient recycling Nonuse Value : Existence- satisfaction of knowing it exists Aesthetics- appreciate nature/beauty Bequest- protect for future generations
The Direct Value of Biodiversity Food Sources We eat other species! Must preserve old varieties in case we need them later Pests can wipe out non resistant crops Breeders continue to battel disease etc. Ex: Wheat, rice, and maize(corn) provide 50% of the world food supply! Natural Products Medicines, natural fertilizers, pesticides Palm Oil is used in all types of products, rubber, honey, beeswax etc.
The Indirect Value of Biodiversity Environmental Services Soil aeration (worms) Fertilization/pollination Recycling of matter Erosion control Climate regulation Breakdown of wastes Scientific/Education www.eol.org Biological Control Agents Invasive species/pests Gene Pools Potential genetic engineering Future Potential Uses New discoveries = new potential uses Human Health First antibiotics obtained from fungi Treatment of cancer Treatment for Leukemia
The Indirect Value of Biodiversity Human Rights Indigenous people rely on biodiversity to continue living in their native lands Recreation National Parks, skiing, scuba diving, hiking Also brings in jobs and money Ecotourism People rely on wild places for aesthetic interests and spiritual fulfillment Ethical/intrinsic Value Each species has a right to exist!
Conservation vs Preservation Conservation Biology Sustainable use and management of natural resources Preservation Biology Attempts to exclude human activity in areas where humans have not yet encroached
IGOs, GOs, and NGOs IGOs GOs NGOs Composed of and answering to a group of member states Aka: international organizations Ex: UN GOs part of and funded by a national government Highly bureaucratic Research, regulation, monitoring and controlling activities Ex: EPA NGOs Not part of government Not for profit Can be international or local Funded by donations Volunteers Ex: Greenpeace