4.7 Editorial Material

Smaller human populations are still not a necessary condition for biodiversity conservation: A response to Cafaro et al. (2023)

Related references

Note: Only part of the references are listed.
Letter Biodiversity Conservation

Fewer people would help preserve biodiversity: A response to Hughes et al. (2023)

Philip Cafaro et al.

BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION (2023)

Article Biodiversity Conservation

Smaller human populations are neither a necessary nor sufficient condition for biodiversity conservation

Alice C. Hughes et al.

Summary: The blame on human population as the main cause of biodiversity loss is not true. The growth of commodities for export, particularly soybean and oil-palm, primarily for livestock feed or biofuel consumption in higher income economies, is the actual driver of habitat loss. Instead of population, reducing unsustainable consumption, tracking supply chains, technological innovation, and ensuring sustainable production are the key measures for biodiversity conservation.

BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION (2023)

Article Biodiversity Conservation

Overpopulation is a major cause of biodiversity loss and smaller human populations are necessary to preserve what is left

Philip Cafaro et al.

Summary: Global biodiversity decline is mainly caused by excessive consumption and production by humans, resulting in the displacement and degradation of habitats for other species. Excessive human population destroys and degrades habitats for other species, while population decrease creates opportunities for ecological restoration. Further research into the impact of human demographic changes on conservation efforts is crucial. Advocating for smaller populations and promoting small families through improved access to modern contraception is essential for preserving biodiversity.

BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION (2022)