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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is necessary for life to thrive on Earth.

Aldo Leopold, one of the great thinkers of conservation, observed more than half a century ago the importance of protecting species. "To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering," he wrote. Losing species is like throwing away one by one the engine parts of an airplane while flying.

Biodiversity is a major initiative of Conservation International.

Biodiversity conservation provides substantial benefits to meet immediate human needs, such as those for clean, consistent water flows; protection from floods and storms; and a stable climate. 

Curated by mokiethecat

October 13, 2026

The Trump administration's proposed land swaps on Georgia's Cumberland Island National Seashore would permit the construction of eight 15,000-square-foot mansions, a private beach pavilion, and a road, undermining the preservation of this national park unit.

Cumberland Island is home to ancient live oak forests and is a crucial nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles. The proposed developments threaten to disrupt this fragile ecosystem. Will Harlan, the Center’s Southeast Director, highlights the importance of protecting our national treasures from becoming private playgrounds.

Support the Center's efforts to safeguard Cumberland Island and public lands by donating today.


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