Why is "biodiversity" important?

Biodiversity is important because it supports the provision of ecosystem services, which are the vital functions that ecosystems perform that benefit humans and the planet. These services include clean air and water, pollination of plants, carbon storage, soil fertility, and overall ecosystem health. A diverse array of species contributes to these services by ensuring the resilience and functionality of ecosystems. For example, a variety of plant species can enhance soil quality and increase productivity, while diverse animal species can aid in pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling.

In ecosystems with high biodiversity, different species can perform overlapping roles, which can better withstand challenges such as environmental changes, diseases, and invasive species. This adaptability and variety make ecosystems more likely to recover from disturbances, showcasing that biodiversity not only enriches natural environments but also sustains human life through the services it provides.