Insects are an essential part of the ecosystem, and rely on each other to ensure their vital roles are filled.
In years when some insect populations are down, others fill the void to keep the entire system running smoothly.
They also play a crucial role in climate regulation. They help control pest populations, limit crop damage and mitigate climatic change.
1. Pollination
The world’s plants need pollinators to carry pollen from the male anthers to the female stigmata in order for them to reproduce. This is essential for the health and functioning of ecosystems, delivering a wide range of services that support food production, habitats and natural resources.
Insects such as bees are the most effective pollinators. But there are also flies, wasps, butterflies, moths and other animals that help with pollination.
But sadly, these insects are being threatened around the world by deforestation and expanding agriculture, along with climate change. As a result, pollination of crops is being compromised.
2. Decomposition
Decomposition is a key part of the nutrient cycle. It recycles nutrients in waste and makes them available for use by new organisms.
There are many types of decomposers, but some of the most important are bacteria and fungi. In addition to these, scavengers like birds and mammals help by breaking down organic matter and scattering its debris.
Despite the importance of decomposition, it often gets a bad rap in our modern world. Fortunately, it is also the most impressive process in nature, and can be a big boon for the environment.
3. Cleanliness
Cleanliness is a major concern for the environment. Keeping the area free of litter and germs is a good way to reduce pollution and conserve natural resources.
Cleaning your surroundings also helps prevent accidents in the workplace, as well as keep insects out of your home or garden. For instance, clearing bushes around your house ensures safety from snakes and other dangerous animals.
A healthy and clean environment is the best way to improve your health and wellbeing. It also gives you a sense of achievement. If everyone in your community takes their responsibilities seriously and does their part to help out, you will be on the right track towards a cleaner, healthier world. You might even end up making your neighbors proud! Taking action on your own is one of the best ways to show your support and commitment to preserving our planet.
4. Food
Food is any substance consumed or absorbed by animals and plants to sustain life and growth. It consists of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and other nutrients that are necessary for the maintenance of a healthy body.
The food we eat is the most important resource for human beings and for the ecosystems around us. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, meat and fish, along with a careful use of water, helps to maintain a sustainable environment and improves the health of people and their animals.
But, the production and distribution of food also has an impact on our planet, causing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to climate change. We can do our part to reduce these harmful emissions by eating a more plant-rich and balanced diet, reducing foods that are harder on the environment such as processed red meat, and cutting down on waste.
5. Animal Welfare
Insects are a critical part of our ecosystem, providing us with useful services, such as pollination and pest control. But they are also under threat, due to deforestation and expanding agricultural land use as well as climate change.
These factors are all contributing to the decline of insect populations, as reported in a new study published this month.
The results are a stark reminder of how important animal welfare is to the environment and how it cannot be ignored in human development projects. The research shows that if the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is to be successful, it must include animal welfare as an integral part of every project and program.