Biodiversity’s Crucial Influence on Human Livelihood and Health
摘要
The extensive acknowledgment of nature’s positive influence on human health and well-being is the focal point of this chapter. It explores into both the direct and indirect ways in which biodiversity contributes to various aspects of human life, encompassing livelihoods, health, food security, cultural diversity, and socio-economic development. Biodiversity serves as a life support system, with organisms relying on it for essential elements such as breathable air, sustenance, and drinkable water. Wetlands perform a vital function. In filtering water pollutants, plants and trees mitigate global warming by absorbing carbon, and bacteria and fungi contribute to the breakdown of biological material, enriching the soil. Empirical evidence highlights the correlation between native species richness and ecosystem health, underscoring its significance for human quality of life. Biodiversity’s ecosystem services extend to soil development and protection, water preservation and purification, maintenance of hydrological cycles, regulation of biochemical processes, and the absorption and decomposition of chemicals and unused. Despite these benefits, the escalating threats to species and ecosystems, exacerbated by human misconduct of organic properties, irresponsible commercial strategies, pollution, and institutional shortcomings, pose a serious concern. Additionally, the chapter explores the repercussions of biodiversity loss on ecosystem resilience, climate regulation, and the potential adverse effects on global sustainability.