A sixth mass extinction is currently occurring and is more severe than scientists expected. Although extinction seems insignificant, as it is a natural process that has occurred since the beginning of time, multiple studies have proven that it is now occurring at a seemingly unstoppable rate.

Some of the major causes of this extinction are climate change, overconsumption, hunting, and human overpopulation. Climate change is harming many species that are unable to adapt to the changing environment. Some are forced to change their behaviors such as migrating and breeding, while others are struggling to survive. This biological annihilation will decrease the diversity of life on earth, and will eventually be disastrous as all life is interconnected.

If enough extinctions of key species occur, entire ecosystems will fail to maintain balance and our own safety will be threatened.

Many species have already experienced extreme decay in numbers and territorial range. Some of these many species include African elephants, jaguars, polar bears, and Adelie penguins. These animals that we have grown up watching and admiring may completely disappear before future generations can observe their true beauty, and preserving this beauty could potentially be one of the greatest gifts that we can pass on.

In a society that is driven by technology, there are an infinite amount of opportunities that can save the world, and the only limit is imagination. Although the window of opportunity is small, it is still possible to prevent the complete destruction of many species and populations.

<Seonyoung Whang /Walnut HS 12th>