Landmark IPBES Report on Biodiversity Crisis - May 4, 2019

On May 4, 2019, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) released a groundbreaking report highlighting the alarming state of global biodiversity. This comprehensive assessment, involving over 145 expert authors from 50 countries, was the most extensive of its kind, examining the health of the planet’s ecosystems and the impact of human activities on biodiversity.

Key Findings

• One Million Species at Risk: The report revealed that approximately one million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction, many within decades, due to human activities. This rate of extinction is unprecedented in human history.

• Drivers of Biodiversity Loss: The report identified five primary drivers of biodiversity loss:

  1. Land and Sea Use Changes: The conversion of natural habitats for agriculture, urban development, and other uses.
  2. Direct Exploitation of Organisms: Overfishing, hunting, and logging.
  3. Climate Change: Altering habitats and affecting species’ survival.
  4. Pollution: Contaminating ecosystems with plastics, chemicals, and waste.
  5. Invasive Alien Species: Disrupting local ecosystems and outcompeting native species.

• Impact on Human Well-being: The degradation of ecosystems affects food security, clean water, and air quality, posing significant risks to human health and economic stability.

Context and Background

The IPBES report was the result of a three-year assessment process, building on previous studies and incorporating new data. It was a response to growing concerns about the rapid decline in biodiversity and its implications for sustainable development and human survival.

Broader Historical Significance

• Policy Implications: The report called for transformative changes in economic, social, and political systems to address the root causes of biodiversity loss. It emphasized the need for sustainable practices and policies that integrate biodiversity considerations across sectors.

• Global Awareness and Action: The findings galvanized international attention and underscored the urgency of global efforts to protect biodiversity. It served as a critical input for discussions at international forums, including the Convention on Biological Diversity.

• Catalyst for Change: The report has been a catalyst for increased advocacy and action among governments, NGOs, and the private sector to prioritize biodiversity conservation in their agendas.

Conclusion

The 2019 IPBES report was a pivotal moment in raising awareness about the biodiversity crisis. It highlighted the interconnectedness of human and environmental health and the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the planet’s ecosystems for future generations.