As the human population expands, so does the growing need for industrial activities. As this increases, the natural world begins to decrease. Species are losing their homes at an alarming rate due to habitat destruction. Habitat destruction is when a natural habitat can no longer support its native species.

Humans are a main source of habitat loss due to the relentless pursuit of natural resources, resulting in significant impacts on the environment. Agriculture, industrialization, and urbanization are primary factors driving this destruction, leading to the alteration of ecosystems. Other activities like logging and mining strip away vital land for wildlife. Many regions around the world suffer from this trend, particularly in Western Africa, where habitat destruction leads to a decline in species and ecological health. The urban population is packed so tightly that there is little habitat left for various plants and animals to thrive. This crisis threatens the sustainability of our planet, making it a pressing issue that requires immediate action to prevent irreversible damage to our natural world.

Tropical rainforests are the most affected by habitat destruction. 17% of the amazon rainforest has been destroyed and another 17% is degrading. 47 million people live in the amazon region. The rainforest is home to 22% of the world’s plants. With the destruction of their environment it is destroying the plants. With the destruction it would also destroy trees. The amazon rainforest makes extreme amounts of oxygen which could greatly affect humans all around the world.

Habitats are also destroyed from Natural Causes. Wildfires are one of the main causes to blame. Wildfires spread quickly leaving very little time for native wildlife to leave. The fires burn the tree canopy allowing for more smaller plants to grow. This drastically changes the habitat structure. This is a natural way in which habitats are destroyed, however not all WIldfires are caused by natural reasons. There are many ways fires can start such as arson, cigarette butts, and campfires. All of these are common ways wildfires are started. Wildfires are a huge factor in habitat destruction.

How can we combat habitat destruction? First things first, we need to conserve existing habitats. The U.S has done things to help this by making national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and protected areas. The next thing we need to do is come up with more sustainable practices. New farming, logging, and fishing practices are essential to preserve habitats. New sustainable methods need to be implemented in order to preserve habitats. Finally we must tackle climate change. This is probably one of the hardest things to do on this list but it must be done. The world is at stake so humans need to quit being selfish and do their part. Habitats need to be saved. Habitat destruction is a huge issue that needs to be solved. If we fail to do anything the results will be devastating. If we can conserve habitats, use new harvesting techniques, and fight climate change, habitats can be saved. It’s all up to us as humans to help fix it. The time to act is now so we must do this now.