In May 2019, the United Nations released the results of a landmark study on biodiversity. The findings were grim: according to d
ata from hundreds of scientists, up to 1 million plant and animal species are now at risk of extinction. Since the Industrial Revolution, the impact of human activity on the environment has grown increasingly severe. The burning of fossil fuels has caused atmosphere and ocean temperatures to rise worldwide, killing coral reefs and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events like droughts. Plant and animal habitats are often destroyed when companies extract natural resources and clear land for farming. And ocean pollution and overfishing harm aquatic life around the world.
In the report, UN scientists warned the public that this mass extinction event can only be stopped if we take immediate action. To protect biodiversity, countries must act to lower carbon emissions, protect vulnerable species and implement sustainable farming practices.
The author of this passage would most likely agree with which statement?
A
Frequent droughts are beneficial for the planet.
B
Rising ocean temperatures have made coral reefs healthier.
C
Governments should enact regulations to protect biodiversity.
D
UN scientists have overestimated the number of species at risk of extinction.
