Two of the key drivers of biodiversity loss are habitat loss and degradation in terrestrial ecosystems, and over-exploitation in aquatic ecosystems8. For example, one of the UK government’s official biodiversity statistics covers the impact of UK consumption on global biodiversity. When it comes to biodiversity impacts, however, Global South countries may, in many cases, have willingly entered into agreements with rich countries to meet their biodiversity consumption demands. These trade deals can fuel national and local economic development and may be embraced by governments and individual producers alike. These imbalances, which often originate in historical colonial relationships and have become entrenched in neocolonial financial dependency, leave Global South countries — and particularly people living in poverty within Global South countries — at a disadvantage.

Source: The Guardian May 29, 2023 16:44 UTC