The diversity of life enriches the quality of our lives in ways that are not easy to quantify. Biodiversity is
intrinsically valuable and is important for our emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being. Some consider
that it is an important human responsibility to be stewards for the rest of the world’s living organisms.
Diversity breeds diversity. Having a diverse array of living organisms allows other organisms to take advantage
of the resources provided. For example, trees provide habitat and nutrients for birds, insects, other plants
and animals, fungi, and microbes.
Humans have always depended on the Earth’s biodiversity for food, shelter, and health. Biological resources
that provide goods for human use include:
• food—species that are hunted, fished, and gathered,
as well as those cultivated for agriculture, forestry,
and aquaculture;
• shelter and warmth—timber and other forest
products and fibers such as wool and cotton;
• medicines—both traditional medicines and those
synthesized from biological resources and
processes.