Threats to biodiversity

On this page:

• Loss of habitat and fragmentation
• Unstable resource use
• Climate change
• Pollution
• Invasive species

Loss of habitat and fragmentation

• Climate change
• Pollution
• Invasive species
• Heat waves
• Wildfire and flooding

These factors have all contributed to habitat loss and fragmentation in B.C. When we lose habitat from ecosystems, they become fragmented and biodiversity is weakened because species may not be able to move freely through the ecosystem. 

Unstable resource use

For more than a century, resource extraction in some areas of the province has occurred at a rate that we now recognize as resulting in loss of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. These changes have affected various species of wildlife and impacted the ability for Indigenous communities and people to practice their inherent rights on their territories.

Climate change

British Columbians are increasingly experiencing:

• Severe heatwaves
• Wildfires
• Atmospheric rivers and flooding
• Landslides

In addition to loss of life as well as infrastructure, property, revenue and habitat, climate change has also had a profound impact on the shifting habitat ranges of animals and impacted their food sources.

Pollution

We know that pollution can have long-term, far-reaching impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health. Pollutants can travel across ecosystems and linger in the environment for long periods of time. We must continue to take steps to address pollution in our air, water and land to ensure healthy ecosystems for future generations.

Invasive species

From the Mountain Pine Beetle to Giant Hogweed and Gypsy Moths, the temperate climate of British Columbia means plants and animal species from other parts of the world can take hold here. These invasive species can have a devastating impact on native flora and fauna and impact B.C.'s economy as well. In some cases, invasive species can also threaten the survival of native species