Reasons for preserving diversity are philosophical as well as practical. Many people believe that all living things have a right to exist, no matter how small or how unimportant they may seem. Others feel that respecting and maintaining the earth's natural and diverse beauty is a tremendously important human responsibility. Yet for some, the economic and trade value of a particular species or habitat whether it be pharmaceuticals from wild plants or furniture from tropical hardwoods is ample cause for the preservation of nature. Whatever the reason, the loss of biological diversity is a problem that demands our involvement.
Scientists generally agree that further action is needed to curb species and habitat loss.
Exactly what should be done to curb the destruction of biodiversity continues to be debated. Solutions depend on more research, and cooperation among scientists, public policy makers, and environmentalists, as well as increased public awareness and individual action.