The Alarming Loss of Nature in the United States
Every 30 seconds, the United States loses an area of natural land equivalent to nine Grand Canyons due to human development. This staggering loss, detailed in a new report by the Center for American Progress (CAP) and Conservation Science Partners (CSP), amounts to roughly one football field-sized patch of land every 30 seconds.
Causes of Habitat Loss
The primary drivers of this alarming decline in natural expanses are human activities such as:
- Urban development
- Energy production
- Transportation infrastructure
These activities have led to the fragmentation and degradation of natural habitats, posing a significant threat to the country’s biodiversity, clean air, drinking water supply, and ability to mitigate extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.
The Importance of Natural Land
Natural land provides a multitude of essential ecosystem services, including:
- Clean air and water: Forests and wetlands filter pollutants from the air and water, providing clean resources for human consumption.
- Wildlife habitat: Natural areas provide vital habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, including many threatened and endangered species.
- Carbon sequestration: Forests and other natural ecosystems absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change.
- Recreation and well-being: Natural areas offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can promote physical and mental health.
The Goal of Preserving 30% of Natural Land
The CAP report recommends that the United States set a goal of preserving 30 percent of its remaining natural land and oceans by 2030. This ambitious target would help to:
- Lower animal extinction rates
- Maintain food and drinking water supplies
- Contribute to efforts aimed at preventing global temperature rise
Achieving the 30% Goal
Reaching the 30% target will require collaborative action by policymakers, scientists, conservationists, and the public. Key strategies include:
- Advancing locally led conservation initiatives
- Building a more inclusive, equitable, and just approach to stewardship
- Responding to an ambitious national call to action
The United States as a Conservation Nation
By fulfilling its promise as a conservation nation, the United States can:
- Protect its natural heritage for future generations
- Serve as an example for the world to follow in terms of sustainable land management
- Contribute to global efforts to address climate change and biodiversity loss
Regional Differences in Habitat Loss
The report found significant regional differences in the extent of human development. The Midwest, Northeast, and South have experienced the most habitat loss, while the West has undergone the least. North Dakota and Oklahoma experienced the largest losses over the time period studied, while Nevada and Maine underwent the least amount of change.
Conclusion
The loss of natural land in the United States is a serious environmental crisis with far-reaching consequences. By setting a goal of preserving 30 percent of remaining natural land and oceans by 2030, the United States can take a significant step towards protecting its natural heritage, mitigating climate change, and ensuring a healthy future for generations to come.