Extinction of Species and Us

Human Interference: Constructing roads and rail routes through forests and mountains for transportation create disturbance in the habitat of wild animals, reduce area for their dwelling and movement and introduce feeling of insecurity among the animals. Similarly, use of boats for fishing, steamers for transportation and cruises for leisure activities disturb marine life. Consequently, there is a gradual reduction in their numbers.

Pollution: In fact, human interference itself is the main cause of pollution. Movement of automobiles and railways through forests and mountains not only pollute these natural habitats by expelling toxic gases that harm both animals and plants but they also create noise pollution affecting the mental state of wild animals. Forest resorts attract a large number of people as tourists. They pollute the forest soil and water resources by throwing nonbiodegradable products like plastics.

Despite efforts to save species from being extinct, the process of extinction has not slowed down much. Once extinction has taken place we are helpless but there are thousands of ‘Endangered’ species (bound to be extinct if proper steps are not taken) which we can save. Some of them include: Javan Rhino, Mediterranean monk seal, tiger, African elephant, Mountain gorilla, Blue whale, Giant otter, Jackass penguin, Chinese alligator, Kemp’s ridley turtle, etc.

WWF (World Wildlife Fund for Nature) has the main aim of protecting and conserving such species. WWF works with governments of different countries to establish reserves and parks. WWF believes that protecting animals and plants has to go hand in hand with satisfying the basic needs of people. Therefore, many of its projects are designed to maintain balance between the sustainable use of natural resources, protection of wildlife and benefits of people.