Red Alert: Over 1/3 of the World's Plant Species Face Extinction

The alarming figure of 16,425 plant species threatened with extinction out of a total of 47,282 assessed species paints a bleak picture of the future of global flora. Notably, this number is more than double the combined total of threatened bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species.
According to the latest update of the IUCN Red List, published on October 28, 2024, the decline in biodiversity, especially in plants, is at an alarming rate. This comprehensive study was conducted in 192 countries with the participation of over 1,000 plant experts.
A Serious Threat to Ecosystems
Plants play a crucial role in maintaining life on Earth. They are not only involved in water, nutrient, and carbon cycles but also play a significant role in soil formation and climate regulation. The loss of a large number of plant species will create a domino effect, threatening the existence of thousands of other species in the food chain.
Direct Impact on Human Life
Among the plant species listed in the IUCN Red List, over 5,000 species are used for timber and construction, and another 2,000 species are sources of medicine, food, and fuel for humans. This decline directly threatens the livelihoods of many communities, especially indigenous peoples.
Causes and Solutions
The main threats to plants include:
Deforestation due to urban development and agriculture
Climate change causing droughts and wildfires
Invasion of alien species, diseases and pests
To address this situation, some countries such as Ghana, Colombia, Chile, and Kenya have implemented national strategies to protect plant species.
Experts recommend:
Strengthening conservation efforts at the local, national, and international levels
Improving reforestation methods
Diversifying species in tree planting programs
Prioritizing the protection of endangered species
In the face of this situation, every individual and organization needs to be aware of the importance of protecting plants and take practical actions to help prevent the ongoing "extinction crisis."