Why are tropical rainforests critical for biodiversity conservation?
Tropical forests are particularly rich in biodiversity. They are home to about two thirds of all known species. At the same time, most endangered species live there: in tropical regions, 47% of all plant species are endangered, significantly more than in the rest of the world, where the average is 25%. It is therefore important that we do not lose any more tropical forest. At present, forests are falling victim mainly to agriculture, one of the biggest destroyers of biodiversity.
What role do nature reserves play in biodiversity?
Nature reserves help protect ecosystems and preserve species. If left alone, they can recover on their own. However, the old concept of ‘fortress conservation’, in which nature reserves are shielded from the outside world, is now considered outdated. Today, it is clear that conservation can only work with indigenous peoples and local communities, not against them. Otherwise, conflicts and poaching result. With this in mind, one of the points that will be intensively discussed in Montreal is the interplay between conservation and exploitation.