In this way we can reduce the rate at which species are lost and maintain a higher overall level of biodiversity. The current loss of biodiversity has grave implications for humanity. Much of the world's food, fibre and fuel is harvested from wild populations of plants and animals. Wild species maintain essential ecosystem processes that regulate water supply, maintain atmospheric conditions, and ensure the productivity of soils. Indeed, the long term future of Earth as a home for humans depends on protecting the regenerative capacity of ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Species also have instrinsic value aside from their utility to people.