This is an absolutely…

This is an absolutely unacceptable change to a critical act that focuses on preserving our critical biodiversity and ensuring that we support species we’ve had a very harmful impact on. Strongly oppose this change as a former scientist and current executive. Atrocious that it is even being considered.

Preserving endangered species is crucial for maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems, ensuring the availability of essential ecosystem services, and protecting the planet's natural legacy for future generations. Extinction can have cascading effects on the food web, impacting the overall health and resilience of ecosystems.
Here's a more detailed look at why it's important:
Ecosystem Health and Resilience:
Interconnectedness:
Every living thing is part of a complex network, and losing a single species can disrupt the delicate balance of an ecosystem, leading to cascading effects.
Keystone Species:
Some species play a vital role in their ecosystems, and their loss can have far-reaching consequences.
Food Web:
Losing species can disrupt the food chain, impacting the availability of food and resources for other species.
Ecosystem Services:
Ecosystems provide vital services like clean air, clean water, pollination, and flood control. Losing species can compromise these services.
Practical and Economic Benefits:
Human Well-being:
Many species provide humans with resources like food, medicine, and materials.
Scientific Discovery:
Species biodiversity can lead to new discoveries in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and technology.
Tourism and Recreation:
The natural beauty of ecosystems, including endangered species, can be a source of tourism and recreational opportunities.
Economic Stability:
The health of ecosystems is closely linked to economic stability, as ecosystems provide essential services for various industries.
Moral and Ethical Considerations:
Right to Exist:
Every species has a right to exist, and we have a moral obligation to protect them from extinction.
Inspiration and Beauty:
The diversity of species provides inspiration, beauty, and solace to many people.
Legacy for Future Generations:
Preserving endangered species ensures that future generations can enjoy the natural world and benefit from its resources.