What are the ethical considerations in protecting biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variability of life on earth where different species of animals,
plants and microorganisms co-exist in a given ecosystem. The rational use and
conservation of biodiversity have significant implications for human well-being,
environmental sustainability and economic development. From an ethical
perspective, biodiversity serves as a shared natural resource that must be properly
managed and preserved for the benefit of current and future generations.
One of the key ethical considerations in protecting biodiversity is the recognition of
non-human species as having intrinsic value and deserving of protection in their own
right. This principle emphasizes the need to consider the well-being of other species
apart from their instrumental value to human beings. Therefore, conservation policies
and practices should aim to preserve the diversity of life on earth and promote
ecological integrity.
Another ethical issue in biodiversity conservation is the equitable distribution of
benefits and costs. The benefits derived from biodiversity should be shared among
different communities and individuals, especially those who are directly dependent
on ecosystem services. Moreover, conservation policies should not impose undue
burden on marginalized communities, such as indigenous peoples, who rely on
natural resources for their livelihoods.
In conclusion, biodiversity conservation is more than just an ecological issue; it is a
matter of ethics and social responsibility. Protecting biodiversity requires a holistic
approach that balances the needs of people and natural systems while promoting
ethical principles such as respect for nature and environmental justice.
References:
Kerr, J. T., Packer, L., & Satterfield, T. A. (2000). The ethics of species restoration. In G.
Wuerthner, M. E. Matteson, & R. E. Newell (Eds.), Protecting natural processes (pp. 219229). Island Press.
Westerman, C. (2012). Justice, sustainability, and biodiversity. Environmental Ethics, 34(1),
3-20.
Wilson, E. O. (1993). The diversity of life. W. W. Norton & Company.