Podcast Beta
Questions and Answers
¿Cuál es el papel de la biodiversidad en la lucha contra la crisis climática?
¿Qué porcentaje de la mitigación del cambio climático necesaria en la próxima década se puede lograr mediante la conservación y restauración de espacios naturales?
¿Por qué es importante conservar la biodiversidad?
¿Qué función desempeñan los ecosistemas en la protección contra eventos climáticos extremos?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Qué es lo que enfrenta el mundo en la actualidad en relación con la biodiversidad?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Qué servicios ecosistémicos son fundamentales para las industrias?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Cuál es el papel clave que juega la biodiversidad en la salud humana?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Cuál es la proporción de fármacos contra el cáncer que son productos naturales o inspirados en la naturaleza?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Cuál es el porcentaje de la generación de valor económico global que depende moderada o alta de la naturaleza?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Qué es la biodiversidad?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Cuál es la relación entre la biodiversidad y la industria agrÃcola?
Signup and view all the answers
¿Cuántos de los 150 medicamentos recetados más prescritos en los Estados Unidos se basan en fuentes naturales?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Biodiversity: Essential for People and Planet
Biodiversity is the multitude of living species that make up life on Earth, including plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria, as well as the ecosystems they inhabit, such as forests, oceans, and coral reefs. It is the foundation of most industries and livelihoods, ensuring fertile soil and a variety of foods, including fruits and vegetables, and helping to regulate climate through carbon storage. Biodiversity also plays a crucial role in human health, protecting against the spread of diseases and serving as a source of many drugs used in modern medicine.
Biodiversity and Human Health
Biodiversity is essential for human health in several ways. Healthy ecosystems can protect against the spread of diseases by maintaining a balance of species that can lower infection rates for zoonotic diseases. For instance, in the United States, at least 118 of the top 150 prescription drugs are based on natural sources. Moreover, about 70% of cancer drugs are either natural products or synthetic ones inspired by nature.
Biodiversity and the Economy
Biodiversity underpins economic prosperity, contributing to industries such as agriculture, food and beverages, and construction, which are heavily dependent on nature. Roughly US$44 trillion of economic value generation is moderately or highly dependent on nature, representing more than half of global GDP. In addition to direct resource extraction from forests and oceans, industries rely on ecosystem services such as clean water, pollination, and a stable climate.
Biodiversity and the Climate Crisis
Biodiversity is crucial in tackling the climate crisis, as land and oceans serve as natural carbon sinks, absorbing more than half of all greenhouse gas emissions. Conserving and restoring natural spaces on land and in water is necessary for limiting carbon emissions and providing one-third of the mitigation effort needed in the next decade. Ecosystems also act as buffers against extreme weather, protecting houses, crops, water supplies, and vital infrastructure.
In conclusion, biodiversity is essential for the health and well-being of people and the planet. It is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment, ensuring food security, and supporting various industries. As the world faces an unprecedented biodiversity loss crisis, it is crucial that governments, organizations, and individuals work together to conserve and protect biodiversity for future generations.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore the significance of biodiversity for human health, economy, and the climate crisis. Learn how diverse ecosystems protect against diseases, contribute to economic prosperity, and play a vital role in mitigating climate change. Discover the essential role of biodiversity in ensuring a healthy environment and sustainable industries.
