Some people consider the loss of certain species of flora and fauna a major problem of our time. It is true that the extinction of particular plants and animals disrupts the environment. However, there are other significant environmental issues, such as climate change and global warming, which are even more threatening.
On one hand, a significant number of species have gone extinct due to hunting and deforestation carried out by humans. At times, extinction is caused by natural factors such as forest fires, loss of habitat due to dominant species taking over, and flooding. While it is true that natural factors may cause some level of extinction, the negative effects of man-made extinction significantly outweigh those of natural extinction and cause major disruptions in the environment, often leading to issues such as the overpopulation of other species. For instance, the extinction of the Barbary lion in South Africa has resulted in an overpopulation of deer and zebras, which has led to the depletion of plants and trees, making it harder for humans to obtain resources.
On the other hand, other environmental issues, such as climate change and global warming, are rapidly worsening. Most of the natural factors affecting flora and fauna are a result of increasing climate change and the emission of greenhouse gases. Over the last six decades, the average temperature of the Earth has increased by one degree Celsius, leading to the melting of glaciers in the Arctic region. For example, many penguins, seals, and other aquatic animals have lost their habitats due to climate change.
In conclusion, the extinction of certain species of flora and fauna is a significant environmental problem. However, the risks posed by other issues, such as climate change and global warming, are substantially greater.
