Silence of the natural world signals a biodiversity crisis
Silence of the natural world signals a biodiversity crisis Environmental Health News
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Ecoacoustics Research Reveals Global Reduction in Natural Soundscapes
Introduction
Studies have shown that natural soundscapes are diminishing worldwide due to the loss of species and ecosystem degradation. This article will discuss the findings of ecoacoustics research and highlight the importance of protecting and restoring these natural sounds in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Research Findings
- Ecoacoustics research indicates a global reduction in the natural sounds of ecosystems due to declining species diversity and abundance.
- Over the past 25 years, declines in the diversity and intensity of natural sounds have been documented across North America and Europe.
- Experts warn that sounds like bird calls and insect hums are vanishing, raising concerns about the potential loss of “acoustic fossils” if protective measures are not taken.
Key Quote
“The changes are profound. And they are happening everywhere.” – Bernie Krause, U.S. soundscape recordist
Importance of Protecting Natural Soundscapes
The disappearance of natural sounds not only signifies a loss of biodiversity but also marks a concerning trend in environmental health. It has significant implications for global ecosystems and human wellbeing, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. The SDGs aim to promote sustainable development and address various global challenges, including biodiversity loss and environmental degradation.
Read more: The health of wildlife is inseparable from our own.
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 | Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index |
| 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 15.9.1: Progress towards national targets established in accordance with Aichi Biodiversity Targets |
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination | Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 15: Life on Land
The article discusses the diminishing natural soundscapes due to the loss of species and ecosystem degradation. This aligns with SDG 15, which focuses on protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably managing forests, combating desertification, and halting biodiversity loss.
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The article also mentions that the disappearance of natural sounds affects human well-being. This connects to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
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
The article highlights the decline in natural sounds due to ecosystem degradation, indicating the need to take action to reduce habitat degradation.
Target 15.9: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts
The article emphasizes the importance of protecting natural sounds as a part of biodiversity. Integrating ecosystem and biodiversity values into planning and development processes can help address this issue.
Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination
While not explicitly mentioned in the article, the loss of natural sounds due to environmental degradation can be linked to pollution and contamination. Taking action to reduce pollution aligns with this target.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article does not explicitly mention any indicators. However, based on the content, the following indicators can be used:
Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index
The Red List Index measures changes in the overall extinction risk of species over time. Monitoring changes in species diversity and abundance can provide insights into the degradation of natural habitats.
Indicator 15.9.1: Progress towards national targets established in accordance with Aichi Biodiversity Targets
This indicator measures progress towards integrating ecosystem and biodiversity values into national planning and development processes. It can help assess the extent to which protective measures are being implemented.
Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution
While not directly mentioned in the article, the loss of natural sounds due to pollution can be connected to air pollution. Monitoring the mortality rate attributed to air pollution can provide insights into the impact on human health.
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: ehn.org
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