QUES . How does the conservation of biodiversity, especially in the humid tropics, assure the sustenance of the livelihood of the people below the poverty line? UPSC IES/ISS EXAM 2022 General Studies . 200 Words . 5 Marks

HINTS:

Conservation of biodiversity is essential for sustaining the livelihoods of people living below the poverty line, especially in the humid tropics:

Ecotourism: Biodiversity conservation can lead to the development of ecotourism, which can provide new job opportunities for people in the local communities. Ecotourism can generate income for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, providing employment for people in the area.

Food security: Biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, which provide various ecosystem services such as soil fertility, pollination, and pest control. These services are essential for agriculture and food production, which is a primary source of livelihood for many people in the tropics.

Traditional knowledge: Many people living in the humid tropics rely on traditional knowledge to sustain their livelihoods. Biodiversity conservation can help preserve traditional knowledge, which can be passed down to future generations, ensuring the continued survival of traditional practices that are essential for livelihoods.

Medicinal plants: Biodiversity conservation can help preserve medicinal plants that are essential for treating illnesses and diseases. Many people in the tropics rely on traditional medicine for their healthcare needs, and the loss of biodiversity can lead to the extinction of these plants, thereby threatening the health and livelihood of people.

Climate change: Biodiversity conservation can help mitigate the impacts of climate change by preserving forests and other ecosystems that sequester carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This can help ensure the sustainability of natural resources, which are essential for the livelihoods of people in the tropics.

Conservation of biodiversity is critical for sustaining the livelihoods of people living below the poverty line in the humid tropics. It can provide new job opportunities, preserve traditional knowledge, ensure food security, protect medicinal plants, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.