Words by Tess Becker
To better understand the state of flora and fauna and the biodiversity in the country the US recently announced its largest ever survey of nature and wildlife. It’s the first nationwide assessment, and the goal is to help researchers and lawmakers determine how to preserve habitats and species throughout the US.
The survey aims “to take stock of nature and nature’s benefits”, said Phil Levin at the University of Washington in Seattle.
It is expected to include data on different measures of the country’s biodiversity – the variety of life in the area – and predict how this may change in the face of climate change. In addition to detailing the status of US waterways, lands, and wildlife, the report will assign economic, social, and cultural value to its various natural resources. For example, the importance of forests as recreational sites for locals and the capture of climate-warming carbon dioxide.
This comes during, what many researchers call the sixth mass extinction of plants and animals during our planet’s history.
While many scientists are “well aware that there’s a biodiversity crisis, most of the rest of the world hasn’t really paid attention to that”, says Jane Lubchenco, the deputy director for climate and environment at the US White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
The report is currently in the early stages of development and is anticipated to be released in 2026.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Path Home. This organization helps families facing homelessness in Portland, Oregon. Find out more and support them here.
Hope South Florida. They help people affected by homelessness across the tri-county South Florida. Find out more.
National Coalition for the Homeless. They aid homeless people around the country through their many branches. Support them here.
