Letter to the editor: Rep. Golden’s vote shows contempt for biodiversity
Letter to the editor: Rep. Golden's vote shows contempt for biodiversity Press Herald
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Support for Overturning Endangered Species Act Protections for the Northern Long-Eared Bat
In the midst of an extinction crisis and the ongoing loss of biodiversity around the globe, it is concerning that Rep. Jared Golden would support the overturning of Endangered Species Act protections for the northern long-eared bat, potentially leading to the extinction of this species.
Background
The Endangered Species Act Amendments of 1982, signed into law by President Ronald Reagan, emphasized that decisions regarding the listing of species as threatened or endangered should be based solely on the best scientific and commercial data available. This clarification was important because determining whether a species is facing extinction is a scientific question.
The Plight of the Northern Long-Eared Bat
The northern long-eared bat population in the Northeast has declined by up to 99% in less than two decades. Last November, the Fish and Wildlife Service listed the bat as endangered after determining that its previous “threatened” status did not provide sufficient protection to prevent further decline. The service found that the bat is still experiencing the devastating effects of white nose syndrome and other stressors, which could lead to extinction under current conditions.
Concerns about Rep. Golden’s Vote
Rep. Golden’s vote in favor of overturning the Endangered Species Act protections for the northern long-eared bat goes against the best available science and fails to prioritize the protection of Maine’s biodiversity. This decision is disappointing and raises concerns about the future of this species.
Tara Thornton
Litchfield
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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species | Indicator not mentioned in the article |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.9: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts | Indicator not mentioned in the article |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 15: Life on Land
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 15, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably managing forests, combating desertification, halting and reversing land degradation, and halting biodiversity loss.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.
This target can be identified based on the article’s content because it discusses the overturning of Endangered Species Act protections for the northern long-eared bat, which is facing extinction.
Target 15.9: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts.
This target can be identified based on the article’s content because it criticizes Rep. Jared Golden’s vote for not being in line with protecting Maine’s biodiversity.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
No, the article does not mention or imply any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: pressherald.com
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