'Splitting' the Earth is the idea that helps humans overcome the 6th mass extinction!

The sixth mass extinction has already begun, and without drastic action, we risk losing millions of plant and animal species. Humans, like all other species, depend on ecosystems for their survival. Protecting biodiversity is not just about protecting nature, it is about protecting ourselves.

About 65 million years ago, a mass extinction event occurred, wiping out more than 75% of species on Earth, including the dinosaurs. In the 4.5 billion year history of our planet, there have only been five such mass extinctions.

However, we are now facing the threat of the sixth mass extinction – a crisis largely caused by humans. It is predicted that by the end of this century, many species on Earth could disappear. This raises the question: can humans survive this extinction, or will we join the millions of species that are disappearing?

Survival depends on biodiversity

One of the key factors that has allowed life on Earth to develop and survive for millions of years is biodiversity. Every species, from giant trees, large animals, strange plants, tiny fungi to insects invisible to the naked eye, contributes to the overall ecosystem. Together, they keep life on our planet balanced and thriving.

Currently, humanity is facing the risk of the 6th extinction.

However, this balance is being seriously threatened by unsustainable human activities. The world's wildlife is currently facing an extinction rate 10,000 times faster than the natural rate. Without drastic measures, not only other species but also ourselves could face the risk of extinction.

Solution to the crisis: "The idea of ​​sawing the Earth in half"

One of the solutions put forward to deal with the threat of a sixth mass extinction is the 'saw the Earth in half idea' by renowned biologist and Pulitzer Prize winner EO Wilson. He proposes that we should protect half of the Earth's surface, making it a 'human-free' area so that nature can recover and restore the ecosystem. The idea aims to protect plants and animals from human-caused destruction, while allowing the natural environment to self-regulate.

However, implementing the "Earth-cutting idea " is not easy. With the current global population of over 8 billion people, limiting living space to just half could have many consequences. It is estimated that if this were implemented, about a billion people would have to move – most of them low-income people. The redistribution of population would put great pressure on densely populated areas, making the problem of overpopulation even more serious.

Food and economic challenges

Beyond housing, protecting half the Earth poses major challenges for food and water resources. Currently, one-third of the Earth's surface and 75% of our freshwater resources are used for agriculture and livestock production. Yet 10% of the world's population still faces food shortages. If arable land is reduced to conserve nature, hunger could become even more severe.

Economically, sectors such as forestry and fossil fuels could collapse as resources dwindle. Millions of jobs could be lost, causing economic and social disruption. But alongside these losses, there are also new opportunities in more sustainable sectors. Environmental technologies and industries could create jobs and spur green economic growth.

Protecting biodiversity is protecting human life.

Ecological problems and economic benefits

One thing that cannot be overlooked is the economic value of biodiversity. Currently, about $577 billion worth of global crops are at risk due to the loss of pollination, a process carried out by insects such as bees. In addition, about 40% of the world economy depends on biological resources. Without protection, pollinators and many other biological resources could disappear, putting the industries that depend on them in crisis.

Therefore, protecting biodiversity is not only protecting the environment, but also protecting human life. Conserving animal and plant species helps maintain healthy ecosystems, thereby providing clean water, regulating the climate, maintaining fertile soil and recycling essential nutrients.

Action is needed

It has been proven that the greater the biodiversity, the healthier and more stable the ecosystem. If we continue to reduce biodiversity, not only animals but also humans will face dire consequences. We need to realize that all species on Earth are closely linked to each other, and the disappearance of one species will push us closer to our own extinction.

Although the idea of ​​'cutting the Earth in half' may seem difficult and even unrealistic, if we do nothing to protect the planet, the consequences will be much worse. Taking measures to protect the environment is not only the responsibility of leaders and governments, but also the duty of each individual. Every small action contributes to protecting life on this planet.