Why Biodiversity is Essential for Human Health

Fun Fact: Did you know that over 50% of modern medicines are derived from natural sources? Biodiversity isn’t just beautiful—it’s life-saving!

Imagine a world without natural forests, coral reefs, or the rich variety of plants and animals that inhabit them. This world wouldn’t just be less colourful; it would be a world in which human health, life expectancy, and quality of life would be significantly compromised. The importance of biodiversity for human health is immense, from providing medicinal resources to sustaining clean air and water. Let’s explore why biodiversity is essential for our health, the threats it faces, and what we can do to protect it.

What is Biodiversity, and Why Does it Matter?

Biodiversity is the variety of life found on Earth, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms like bacteria. It encompasses the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic variations within each species. Each element within this intricate web plays a unique role, contributing to the overall balance of nature. For instance, forests purify the air we breathe, bees pollinate the food we eat, and wetlands filter pollutants from water supplies.

Without this diversity, our ecosystems would collapse, disrupting the natural services they provide. Believe it or not, these services have a direct and profound impact on our health.

Biodiversity as a Source of Medicine

One of the most apparent links between biodiversity and human health lies in the world of medicine. A large percentage of medicines originate from plants, animals, and microorganisms. For example:

Penicillin, the first antibiotic, was derived from the mould Penicillium.

Aspirin was originally developed from the bark of willow trees.

Taxol, a groundbreaking cancer drug, is derived from the Pacific yew tree.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately 80% of people in developing countries rely on traditional medicines, often derived from plants, for their primary healthcare. Losing biodiversity means potentially losing new medicines that could cure diseases or alleviate symptoms of ailments yet to emerge.

Healthy Ecosystems, Healthy Air and Water

Biodiversity also helps in maintaining the health of our ecosystems, which, in turn, keeps our air and water clean. Trees and plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, naturally filtering out pollutants and providing us with clean air to breathe. Coral reefs and mangrove forests protect coastal areas from storms, while wetlands act as natural water filters, trapping pollutants before they reach our water sources.

Case in point: Known as the “lungs of the Earth,” the Amazon Rainforest is responsible for generating around 20% of the world’s oxygen supply. If we continue to lose forests like the Amazon, we risk diminishing our natural air and water purification systems, potentially leading to increased respiratory and waterborne diseases.

Biodiversity and Disease Prevention

Biodiversity also acts as a buffer against disease. When ecosystems are healthy and balanced, they help regulate the populations of various species, including those that might carry diseases. For instance:

• In areas with high biodiversity, animals like rodents, which are known to carry diseases, are kept in check by natural predators.
• A healthy, balanced ecosystem can reduce the spread of diseases such as Lyme disease, malaria, and some zoonotic diseases (illnesses that can transfer from animals to humans).

Unfortunately, human activities such as deforestation and urbanization disturb these ecosystems, increasing the likelihood of diseases jumping from wildlife to humans. The COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the consequences that can arise from disrupting the natural habitats of wildlife.

Mental Health and Well-being

Beyond physical health, biodiversity positively impacts mental health. Studies show that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Parks, green spaces, and natural landscapes provide a calming effect, contributing to better mental health and overall well-being.

In Japan, the practice of “Shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing is recognized for its therapeutic effects, allowing people to reconnect with nature and recharge mentally. By preserving biodiversity, we’re not only protecting our environment but also nurturing our emotional well-being.

Food Security and Nutrition

Biodiversity is crucial for food security and nutrition. The variety of plant and animal species offers a broad spectrum of nutrient-rich foods, which is essential in preventing malnutrition. Crop biodiversity is essential for food security, as it allows us to breed plants that can withstand climate change, pests, and diseases.

For example, the potato is a dietary staple around the world. However, there are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes, each with unique characteristics that can help improve resistance to disease, pests, or drought. With the threat of climate change, maintaining crop diversity ensures that we have resilient food sources.

Biodiversity and Climate Regulation

Biodiverse ecosystems play a critical role in regulating climate by absorbing greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂). Forests, oceans, and soil act as carbon sinks, meaning they can trap CO₂ from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate global warming. When biodiversity is disrupted, these natural buffers lose their effectiveness, leading to accelerated climate change, which has adverse health impacts on human populations.

For example, rising temperatures can increase the incidence of heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues due to air pollution, and vector-borne diseases like dengue fever. Protecting biodiversity is, therefore, essential in our fight against climate change and in safeguarding public health.

Conclusion: Protecting Biodiversity for a Healthier Tomorrow

The connection between biodiversity and human health is undeniable. As our world faces increasing environmental challenges, safeguarding biodiversity is more critical than ever. Every species plays a part in the delicate balance of our ecosystems, contributing to clean air, safe water, resilient food systems, and the medicines that save lives. By protecting biodiversity, we’re investing in a healthier, safer, and more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.

Let’s act to preserve biodiversity—be it by supporting sustainable practices, reducing our carbon footprint, or simply appreciating and respecting nature’s wonders. Small actions can create ripples of change.

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Author’s Note:

Thank you for reading! I hope this article inspires you to recognize and appreciate the deep connection between nature and our health. Let’s protect our planet, not only for biodiversity’s sake but for our well-being and that of future generations.

G.C., Ecosociosphere contributor.

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References and Further Reading:

1. World Health Organization (WHO) on Biodiversity and Health
2. The Importance of Biodiversity Conservation – welcometosaturdayschool.com. https://welcometosaturdayschool.com/the-importance-of-biodiversity-conservation/
3. Eliminate Wheat and Get Feeling Great – Thrive Global. https://community.thriveglobal.com/eliminate-wheat-and-get-feeling-great/
4. ANTI-LIPASE AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES. Trakya University Journal of Natural Sciences. https://doi.org/10.23902/trkjnat.960073
5. Where Do Zebra Swallowtail Butterflies Live: Unraveling Their Enchanting Habitats – What’s That Bug?. https://www.whatsthatbug.com/where-do-zebra-swallowtail-butterflies-live/
6. Davidsson, P. (2019). GUIDEPOST: LOOK OUT! SEE CHANGE? SEA CHANGE AHEAD! Academy of Management Discoveries. https://doi.org/10.5465/amd.2019.0141
7. A greener, healthier way to get to campus – Daily News. https://dailynews.mcmaster.ca/articles/a-greener-healthier-way-to-get-to-campus/
8. Why Meat Consumption Is Linked to the Amazon Fires – Business Insider. https://static-ssl.insider.com/meat-consumption-linked-to-the-amazon-fires-2019-8