GEF

Unit 5  |  The Importance of Biodiversity 105 Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth or in a particular habi- tat or ecosystem. Just like cities depend on networks of people, businesses, and transportation to thrive, ecosystems depend on a range of species, biological jobs, and ecosystem services. This unit explores biodiversity as a primary measure of ecosys- tem health. It examines the way all living things contribute to the success of life on Earth. Currently, human activity is nega- tively impacting global biodiversity. For example, when humans destroy a habitat, the native species may face extinction. An understanding of biodiversity, threats to biodiversity, and tools for protecting biodiversity is an essential part of sustainability. THE BIG IDEA UNIT 5 SELF-ASSESSMENT Before beginning this unit, consider what you already know about sustainability by completing this self-assessment. For each statement below, rate your current level of confidence with understanding sustainability concepts. NOT CONFIDENT SOMEWHAT CONFIDENT CONFIDENT I am able to define “biosphere,” and explain how it supports a vast range of organisms. ❍ ❍ ❍ I am able to identify and provide examples of the two main types of biodiversity: species diversity and genetic diversity. ❍ ❍ ❍ I am able to explain why high levels of biodiversity are important to humans. ❍ ❍ ❍ I am able to describe several ways in which human activity is eroding biodiversity. ❍ ❍ ❍ I am able to identify the key threats to biodiversity today, and describe specific examples of protection strategies. ❍ ❍ ❍