Human resilience in the face of biodiversity tipping points at local and regional scales

Abstract

Biodiversity and cultural diversity are intertwined. The threats to biodiversity are already observable and are accelerating. The spread of non-native species is an under-examined threat to biodiversity and to food production. Biodiversity tipping points may most likely appear at the regional scale, as in the drying of the Amazon. The failure of ecosystem integrity and inherent resilience offers a further threat, and the reaction of humans to all of these challenges adds fuel to the fire. Over one-third of the whole population depends on biodiversity — and help to maintain it. Yet part of this vital group is being displaced, losing their cultural integrity, and their language. The tipping points of biodiversity loss are also tipping points of cultural distinctiveness loss.