How does climate change impact global biodiversity levels?.

Climate change poses a profound threat to global biodiversity, impacting ecosystems and species in several key ways.

Key Facts

• According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), rising temperatures have already altered species distributions and habitats (IPCC, 2021).
• Approximately 1 million species are at risk of extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and pollution (UNESCO, 2022).
• Coral reefs, which support about 25% of marine life, are severely threatened by ocean warming and acidification (NOAA, 2023).
• The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) reported that global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 68% since 1970 (WWF, 2020).

Examples or Use Cases

• In the Arctic, warming temperatures are leading to the loss of sea ice habitat, affecting polar bears and seals.
• Tropical rainforest species are migrating uphill and toward the poles as climate zones shift, risking local extinction if they cannot adapt quickly enough.

FAQs

1. What is the main cause of climate change?
   The main cause of climate change is the increase in greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, such as burning fossil fuels.
2. How can we help protect biodiversity?
   Individuals can help by reducing carbon footprints, supporting conservation efforts, and promoting sustainable practices.