Global threats to biodiversity

On a global scale, what has led to high consumption of resources?

• High demand for resource due to global increase in population

• Overconsumption - If everybody in the world consumed resources at the rate people do in OECD and EU countries, the equivalent of 3.3 earths would be needed to keep up with consumption levels.

Cotton case study: Demand for cotton

• High demand for resource due to global increase in population

• Provides income for 250 million people 

Cotton case study: What ecosystem is cleared for cotton plantations?

Natural grassland ecosystems are often cleared to make room for plantations as high moisture and warmth are good conditions for growth

Cotton case study: water consumption

• The production and processing of cotton uses a significant amount of water; 5 trillion litres of water for fabric dying is used annually. 

• Surface and groundwater is often diverted to irrigate cotton fields, meaning that there is a loss of freshwater through evaporation and inefficient water management.

Cotton Case study: insecticides and pesticides

• Cotton is particularly susceptible to pests so insecticides and pesticides are often used. In fact, cotton crops account for 24% of global insecticide sales.

• Water sources are often polluted due to the runoff of pesticides and fertilisers which affect biodiversity directly through toxicity.

How does climate change threaten biodiversity?

• Many species have specific habitat requirements (temperature, moisture, vegetation types)

• As climate zones shift some species may be unable to migrate or adapt quickly enough to track suitable habitats, leading to declines or extinctions.