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- 11/27/24: 🌎 Extinction, 46k species (what to do)
11/27/24: 🌎 Extinction, 46k species (what to do)
A look at biodiversity and the impact it has on our everyday lives.
Rob Herring
November 27, 2024
Happy Wednesday my friend,
Today’s newsletter is all about BIODIVERSITY and I want to highlight our longtime allies at Purity Coffee who are now officially a Certified B-Corp, the strictest standard for companies committed to regenerating ecosystems! They’ve got an awesome new holiday sampler box that is 30% off only right now, and free US shipping. GET PURITY HERE for you or someone you love.
The Tapestry of Life: A Call to Action for Biodiversity
Biodiversity, the intricate web of life on Earth, is facing an unprecedented crisis. From the towering redwoods to the microscopic plankton, every species plays a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems. Unfortunately, human activities have driven countless species to the brink of extinction, and many more are disappearing every day.
The Sixth Mass Extinction
Scientists warn that we are currently experiencing the sixth mass extinction event in Earth's history. Unlike previous extinctions caused by natural phenomena, this one is primarily driven by human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and overexploitation.
To learn more about the threats facing biodiversity and the species most affected, you can visit the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List which shows the over 46k species could be on the verge of extinction currently.
Some observations put this number even higher, such as the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) which estimated that up to 1M species could go extinct, many within decades.
Why Biodiversity Matters
Biodiversity is essential for the health of our planet and our own well-being. We are of course interwoven with the health of this living biosphere, as it provides us with a wide range of ecosystem services, including:
Food and Medicine: Biodiversity is the source of countless foods and medicines, many of which have yet to be discovered (more)
Clean Air and Water: Healthy ecosystems purify air and water, ensuring that we have clean resources (more)
Climate Regulation: Forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate.
Soil Fertility: Diverse ecosystems contribute to healthy soils, which are essential for agriculture (the topic of our film The Need To GROW).
Cultural and Spiritual Values: Biodiversity enriches our lives through cultural traditions, spiritual practices, and aesthetic experiences.
Good News: Taking Action to Protect Biodiversity
While the challenges are significant, there are many things we can do to protect biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future:
Reduce Your Ecological Footprint:
Minimize your consumption of resources, such as water and energy – it can sometimes feel frivolous, but every bit of mindfulness is part of the solution.
Choose sustainable products and services, like those which prioritize Regenerative Agriculture and protect pollinators (like Purity Coffee).
Eat a diet focused on organic, regenerative, biodynamic, and as local as possible.
Support Conservation Organizations:
Donate to organizations working to protect biodiversity and endangered species – we’re proud that our work at Earth Conscious Life has contributed to the planting of over 100k regenerative fruit and nut trees via Trees.org!
Volunteer your time to local conservation projects. Search your zip code, state, or region with the words “conservation” or rivers, forests, etc and see what you can do physically in your area. Or GO HERE to explore opportunities.
Advocate for Policy Change:
Contact your elected officials and urge them to support policies that protect the environment. The key is organizing with groups (in person or via social media) to target specific officials or issues with concentrated calls and emails, to make your voice hard to ignore.
Join environmental organizations and participate in campaigns.
Educate Others:
Share information about biodiversity and the threats it faces with friends, family, and community members. *Use your referral link at the bottom of every ECL newsletter to share this free resource with friends and family.
Organize educational events and workshops – meet local “makers” and those focused on bushcraft, homesteading, gardening, etc. A cultural of repair and reuse is something that has been lost, but it doesn’t need to be gone forever.
By taking action – even small steps – we can help to reverse the trend of biodiversity loss and create a world where humans and nature continue to thrive together. Let's work together to protect the incredible diversity of life on Earth.
Supporting Biodiversity Every Morning ☕️
There's a reason Purity Coffee is the only brand of coffee that graces my shelves.
It's not just a delicious morning brew; it's a commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethically sourced beans. That means beyond organic, regenerative, and mold and mycotoxin-free (unlike most others).
But also certified Smithsonian Bird Friendly and Demeter (the strictest global standard for organic).
And this holiday season, Purity is making it easier special 30% off discount (use code ECL30 at checkout) and free US shipping!
🌎 Purity recently became a Certified B-Corp, which is the strictest standard for companies that can prove an action plan committed to the preservation of the environment and Earth!
For the coffee lover in your life, or maybe yourself (you deserve it!), Purity has special holiday gift boxes for their sampler packs. It's the perfect way to try a variety of their delicious roasts and discover your new go-to cup.
Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your coffee routine (or honor someone special with the perfect cup) at the best price you’ll see all year.
Visit Purity Coffee today and get an exclusive 30% off as an ECL reader (their normal Black Friday is only 20% for everyone else)!
🎁 Plus Free Shipping in the US!
😊 Conscious Corner
Earth-conscious stories you may have missed…
🐺 WOLF HERO: How wolves saved Yellowstone (video)
🎥 EXTINCTION REVERSAL: Trailer for the documentary Back From The Brink (video)
🦖 CLONES: Is it possible–or wise–to resurrect extinct species? (more)
🐼 SO DIVERSE: Top 10 most biodiverse countries (more)
📉 GRAPH: The ultimate visual for biodiversity over the years (more)
Look closely at nature. Every species is a masterpiece, exquisitely adapted to the particular environment in which it has survived. Who are we to destroy or even diminish biodiversity?
To a healing future,
— Rob
P.S. If you or your family drinks coffee…make your morning ritual one that replenishes the Earth, rather than contributes to destruction. Purity Coffee has the highest standards. As an Earth Conscious Life member, you get an exclusive 30% for these great holiday samplers – and free shipping in the US!