Question

Discuss how important you think it is to protect ecosystems from human-induced change, such as changes in habitat orintroduction of invasive species. Should natural conditions be preserved at all costs, should human needs always prevail, or is the answer somewhere in between? Discuss the negative consequences of taking an approach that you disagree with.​

Answer 1

It is extremely important to protect ecosystems from human-induced change, as ecosystems provide vital services such as air and water purification, climate regulation, and nutrient cycling, which are essential for human well-being.

Preserving natural conditions at all costs may not always be feasible, as human populations continue to grow, and there may be competing demands for resources. On the other hand, prioritizing human needs over the needs of the ecosystem can have detrimental consequences in the long run.

Taking an approach that does not prioritize ecosystem protection can lead to the loss of biodiversity, the degradation of natural resources, and the loss of ecosystem services. These negative consequences can lead to reduced agricultural productivity, increased incidence of natural disasters, and negative impacts on human health.

Finding a balance between human needs and the needs of the ecosystem is therefore critical. This can be achieved through sustainable development practices that promote economic growth while preserving the environment, such as the use of renewable resources, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable agriculture practices.