Human beings are dependent on the Earth's diversity of species for our survival.
Wild species play a vital role in maintaining the planet's ecological functions.
Yet everyday on the planet 40-100 species go extinct. Legislation to protect endangered species in Canada is long overdue. The United States has had strong federal endangered species legislation since 1973. On August 17th, the federal environment minister, Sheila Copps, introduced a proposal for an Endangered Species Act. In addition, habitat protection is not guaranteed for any species.