In biomass terms humans are pretty puny, accounting for only 0.01% of living things but our impact has been extraordinary (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/may/21/human-race-just-001-of-all-life-but-has-destroyed-over-80-of-wild-mammals-study). Reportedly, 36% of current mammals are humans, 60% are domesticated beasts such as cows, sheep and goats and only 4% (and reducing) are wild species. The situation, in the case of birds, is only slightly less extreme with 70% being poultry (mainly chickens) and 30% being wild avian species. The extinction-impact of humans is evident in the fact that we have already eliminated more than 80% of all wild animals and 50% of plants. We are clearly on a par with the meteor strike that accounted for the dinosaurs.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Tuesday, 22 May 2018
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