What is one primary effect of environmental degradation?

One primary effect of environmental degradation is the destruction of ecosystems. This occurs when natural habitats are altered or destroyed due to human activities such as deforestation, pollution, urbanization, and climate change. The destruction of ecosystems can lead to the loss of biodiversity, as plants and animal species that rely on those habitats may become endangered or extinct. Furthermore, healthy ecosystems perform essential functions, such as regulating climate, filtering water, and supporting food chains, so their degradation poses significant risks to both the environment and human societies. Understanding this impact highlights the importance of sustainable practices to protect our ecosystems and the services they provide.