Going Ape
Ever since I was young, monkeys have always been my favorite animal. I always had monkey stuffed animals, pillow sheets, and even a monkey-themed birthday party. I would even go as far as peeling my bananas upside down because I was convinced that was the "monkey way". Was this because I was a weird child? Well, yes. But also because I always pictured monkeys as having the most free-spirited lives. It seemed like a dream to be able to swing from branch to branch with tons of friends and family while the sun beams down on you.
In one of my classes, Environmental Law, I am learning about different federal laws and statutes that the United States has put into place to protect various aspects of the environment. One of those acts is the Endangered Species Act. Through studying different cases and the statutes themselves, I have been able to understand how this act helps specific species. However, this does not apply to species around the world which allows for many species to be overlooked. Out of curiosity, I looked up what animals were currently on the endangered species list. To my surprise, there were multiple species of gorillas, orangutans, and monkeys listed. (Link to the list from World Wildlife Fund )
Back in 2017, it was found that 60% of Earth’s ape, monkey, and gorilla species were threatened with extinction and over 70% have declining populations (USA Today). What is the main cause of this dramatic decline in their populations? Humans.
Humanity's expansion into the habitats of these creatures has led to many experiencing habitat loss. This includes deforestation for logging, mining, development, and farming, as well as the illegal hunt and trade of animals.?
What’s being done about it?
Short answer: Not much.?
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Long answer: There are no policies in place to stop habitat destruction, but there is a “goal” of stabilizing the populations. Ape species are legally protected in terms of hunting and also protected against international commercial trade under the international CITES policy. So there are some policies to help, but main issues like climate change and habitat destruction are continuing to be ignored.?
As an environmental studies major, many of my classes tend to be slightly depressing when looking at the scope of where our world is headed. Not just looking at my favorite animals, but also realizing how humans have impacted the world around us on a grand scale. To put it into perspective, you can take this carbon footprint quiz that will tell you how many Earths we would need if everyone in the world lived like you (Link to Quiz).
Climate change is something that is very real and very much caused by humans, but there is hope. Taking time to realize your impact can lead you to make choices that may help the Earth in the long run. I’m not saying everyone needs to become vegans who grow their food in their backyard. But, I am saying some habits can easily be changed to begin living a more sustainable lifestyle.?