‘If we and the rest of the back-boned animals were to disappear overnight, the rest of the world would get on pretty well. But if the invertebrates were to disappear, the world’s ecosystems would collapse.’ Sir David Attenborough.
From pollination and seed dispersal to pest control and nutrient cycling, insects and other invertebrates provide humanity with a wide plethora of ecosystem services. Without them, nature and subsequently the global economy will collapse into ruin.
Unfortunately, despite their significance, invertebrates are under immense threat. According to a study published in 2019, 40% of all insect species are declining. Threats ranging from climate change, light pollution, habitat loss, pesticides, and pharmaceutical waste are dimming the future of invertebrates globally.
In this episode of the Think Wildlife Podcast, Paul Hetherington from Buglife and I, discuss the insectinction. Paul elaborates upon the projects that Buglife is spearheading to help halt and reverse the insectinction.
Episode 69: Preventing The Insect Crisis with Paul Hetherington, Buglife