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The Great Barrier Reef is only one of the many
ecological victims of our drastic climate change. Over
25 million years old, this reef in Queensland,
Australia is slowly depleting before our eyes.
However, it is not too late. There are several actions
we can take to revive and protect this coral reef
ecosystem that tourists love to snorkel in. More than
just a tourist attraction, The Great Barrier Reef is a
home to ?134 species of sharks and rays, six of the
world's seven species of threatened marine turtles,
and more than 30 species of marine mammals,
including the vulnerable dugong?(World Wildlife,
Date). Unfortunately, the destruction of this
beautiful coral reef is caused by nearby garbage
disposals, bleaching, fishing, and emission of fossil
fuels that threaten both the flora and fauna of this
diverse ecosystem; however, it is not dead yet, and
there are programs enacted to try to recover this
important ecosystem.
Some well known endangered animals include the blade horned chameleon, pacific bluefin tuna,
bumblebees, american eel, kaputar pink slug, and the chinese cobra. Also, the amur leopard is
endangered with only about 35 species left in the wild. The decrease in numbers for such
animals can be caused by factors such as habitat loss, illegal poaching and hunting, and climate
change. Each of these species are being watched over by organization such as U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, World Wildlife Fund, and many more. Monitoring and placing laws to stop
poaching and other forms of ecological destruction serves a critical role in the preservation and
protection of species on this Earth.
These are just some topics that are up to further discussion in our environmental ecosystem,
but there are a plethora of more issues. The human society should use the power of the media
to express the need for the care of Earth. The reality is that organisms are dying at the hands of
mankind, and our eyes should be opened. We must serve as advocates for animals because they
have no voice or influence on our political climate. As humans, we should live mindful of the fact
that we share this planet with thousands of organisms that deserve our respect and kindness.