Biodiversity

The worst thing that can happen during the 1980s is not energy depletion, economic collapse, limited nuclear war, or conquest by a totalitarian government. As terrible as these catastrophes would be for us, they can be repaired within a few generations. The one process ongoing in the 1980s that will take millions of years to correct is the loss of genetic and species diversity by the destruction of natural habitats. This is the folly that our descendants are least likely to forgive us.

- E.O. Wilson, 1985

One of the biggest threats to biodiversity is species introduction.  The pace at which we introduce non-native species to land is too fast for surrounding ecosystems to adapt.  The environment becomes less stable, and the result is increased risk to our health, economic stability and future generations.
A great organization to get involved with is Colorado Native Plant Society, www.conps.org.  Check out their Adopt a Rare Plant program!
If you're thinking about landscaping your yard, be sure to check out another great resource: http://www.denverplants.com/.  They have a complete list of plants native to Denver and information on how to plant them.
Here at the Green Route, we are going to use native seed packets for our pass.  Join the pass at www.greenroute.com and receive your seed packet at our official launch at the Green Route Festival.
[To read more about impacts of species invasion, visit: http://www.gcrio.org/CONSEQUENCES/vol2no2/article2.html][Image and quote found on: http://www.globalchange.umich.edu/globalchange2/current/lectures/biodiversity/biodiversity.html]

Biodiversity

Biodiversity is one the biggest ecological problems in the world. Loss of biodiversity leads to loss of habitats. Current population growth is causing habitat loss to occur 1000x faster than what would occur with natural selection. Population growth paired with loss of habitats will likely result in food shortages.

On the brighter side of things, listed below are 10 things you can do to help preserve biodiversity

1. Reduce use of pesticides and fertilizers

2. Get envolved with ecological restoration in your local area.

3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

4. Compost

5. Use enviornmentally friendly cleaning products

6. Buy organic foods

7. Buy sustainably harvested seafood

8. Conserve energy

9. Reduce single-person car use

10. Incorporate renewable energy/ energy efficiency into your home.