In a world that is faced with growing economic problems, the possibility of wars, high unemployment rates and more, saving endangered species often seems like the last thing any of us should be concerned about. What we may not be stopping to consider is just how important those endangered species are to the well being of our ecosystem and of our world as a whole.
The plants, animals and other organisms of our world provide the raw materials for many of the medications that we use on a daily basis. Failing to protect species from extinction may very well mean failing to protect human beings from extinction. For example the bark of the Pacific Yew, typically considered a slow-growing ‘trash tree’ in the Pacific Northwest was recently discovered to contain Taxol, which many scientists believe may hold the key to treating breast and ovarian cancer.
Our ecosystem is delicately balanced. As humans, we are a part of that ecosystem. We rely on the plants and animals in it to feed and clothe ourselves. Allowing even small organisms or plants to be destroyed may disturb this balance. Consider the recent overpopulation in the American west of Prairie Dogs. Remove one element of the ecosystem and everything is out of whack.
Finally, the plants and animals of our world that are most endangered are often the ones that are most prized for their beauty. Proud elephants, striking tigers and other animals provide us with recreation and enjoyment – all important parts of our lives.
Saving endangered species isn’t just about saving the life of an animal. By protecting all of the animals, plants and organisms of our world we are providing ourselves with the raw materials we need to live happy, healthy and exciting lives. All endangered species deserve to be protected; failing to do so may very well mean that the next endangered species will be us.