Preserving natural habitats and ecosystems is indeed crucial for maintaining the health of our planet and ensuring the well-being of both humans and wildlife. While the specific percentage of land that should be conserved may vary depending on factors such as location, ecological importance, and human population density, the concept of setting aside significant portions of land for conservation is widely recognized as essential.
There are several reasons why conserving natural areas is important:
Biodiversity Conservation: Natural habitats support a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are essential for ecosystem functioning, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control. Protecting these habitats helps to safeguard biodiversity and preserve species that may be at risk of extinction.
Climate Regulation: Natural ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, play a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate by sequestering carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. Preserving these ecosystems helps mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and maintaining carbon sinks.
Water Resources: Natural habitats contribute to the regulation and purification of water resources by absorbing rainfall, preventing soil erosion, and filtering pollutants. Conserving these areas helps to maintain clean water supplies for drinking, agriculture, and other essential activities.
Cultural and Recreational Value: Natural landscapes provide recreational opportunities, support cultural traditions, and contribute to people’s overall well-being by offering spaces for relaxation, outdoor activities, and spiritual connection with nature.
Efforts to protect natural areas can take various forms, including establishing national parks, wildlife reserves, and protected areas, implementing sustainable land management practices, and promoting community-based conservation initiatives. Collaboration between governments, conservation organizations, indigenous communities, and local stakeholders is essential for effectively conserving natural habitats and achieving the goal of safeguarding half of the Earth’s land in a natural state.
According to National Geographic Half of all land must be kept in a natural state.
27 Feb 2024
The European Parliament gave on Tuesday the green light to the Nature Restoration Law, defying a conservative push to bring down the bill.
EPP group wanted to stop this legislation way before June 2023
The EPP group voted against this law, however, all of Malta MEPs voted in favor, including David Casa, who sits with the European People’s Party.
Why did all of Malta’s MEPs vote in favor?
Will the Maltese farmers benefit from this law?
What will be the implications on Malta about the Nature Restoration Law?
We will be waiting for their possible answers.