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Chapter Three Impacts of Global Climate Change

ecologicalchain maytrigger a chain reaction, leading to drastic population declines or even
extinction of other species.
1.Collapse of Food Webs
When a top predator or key producer disappears, the original energy transfer pathways
between trophic levels are disrupted. For instance, in marine ecosystems, overfishing of top
predators like sharks causes explosive growth in lower-level fish populations, ultimately de-
stabilizing coral reef ecosystems.
2.Impairment of Ecological Services
Many keystone species provide indispensable ecological services, such as soil forma-
tion, water purification, and carbon storage. The extinction of these species would impair
corresponding ecological functions. For example, reeds in wetlands effectively filter pollut-
ants and protect downstream waters from contamination; however, as wetlands shrink and
reed populations decline, this natural barrier gradually weakens.
3.Loss of Cultural Value
Many species are not only part of nature but also vital components of human cultural
and spiritual life. Totemic animals, religious symbols, and medicinal plants in traditional
medicine, for instance, carry rich cultural heritage. Their extinction hinders the inheritance
and development of related cultures, causing intangible losses to society.
（3）Socio-Economic Impacts
The loss of biodiversity is not merely an ecological issue; it also exerts extensive and
profound impacts on socioeconomic development. First, traditional industries such as agri-
culture and fisheries rely on healthy ecosystems, while species extinction and impaired eco-
system service functions directly affect food security and fishermen’s incomes. Second, the
tourism industry is significantly impacted, as many countries and regions depend on unique
natural resources to attract visitors. However, the destruction of natural landscapes dimin-
ishes the appeal of tourist destinations, leading to reduced revenue in related service sectors.
Furthermore, pharmaceutical research and development faces challenges, as many medicinal
ingredients originate from wild flora and fauna. Species extinction means potential new drug
sources may be lost forever.

III. Impairment of Ecosystem Services

Carbon sink functionWeakening of
Natural ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, and oceans serve as globally significant
carbon reservoirs. Through photosynthesis, they absorb carbon dioxide and store it as or-
ganic carbon, thereby helping mitigate climate change. However, due to rising temperatures,
frequent extreme weather events, and human activities, thecarbon sequestration capacityof
many ecosystems is gradually weakening.
1.Forest Fires and Deforestation
In recent years, large-scale forest fires have occurred frequently worldwide, such as

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