It is now generally accepted that human activity is leading to the mass extinction of animals both on land and at
sea. In this essay, I will discuss several causes for this global phenomenon, and attempt to identify what could be
done to solve this problem.
To begin, some of the prime causes of animal extinction are pollution, destruction of habitats, and hunting.
Pollution of the land and water has become a major global issue, as toxic chemicals and non-biodegradable
substances permeate natural habitats and poison the animals. Natural habitats are also being destroyed through
deforestation and other similar impositions that are made for the betterment and convenience of humanity, leading
to the displacement and death of many affected species. Finally, mass commercial hunting of animals for their
meat, skins, and furs continues to be an issue, causing many species to become endangered or extinct.
Luckily, there are still steps that can be taken to reverse some of the damage. It is imperative that children and
adults alike be educated on the importance of animals, and the role they have to play in the maintenance of the
planet as a whole. As well, governments should make an ever greater effort to impose and uphold laws
surrounding economic practices that harm animals and their habitats. With a reshuffling of priorities and stricter
rules in place, big corporations would be forced to consider the global repercussions of their actions, rather than
just their immediate financial gain.
There are many causes for the growing extinction of animals, but there are still steps that humanity can take to
improve the situation. I believe the sooner humanity understands that the wellbeing of animals is inextricably
linked to the wellbeing of humans, the sooner this problem can be solved.