Yes, evidence suggests that human activities are contributing to an increased rate of extinction of various plant and animal species. This phenomenon is often referred to as the "current extinction crisis" or the "sixth mass extinction."
Human activities have significantly altered ecosystems and caused habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. These changes, coupled with factors such as pollution, climate change, overexploitation of natural resources, introduction of non-native species, and deforestation, have had detrimental effects on biodiversity.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) tracks the conservation status of species globally. Their Red List of Threatened Species identifies species at high risk of extinction, and the numbers are alarming. As of the latest assessment in 2021, more than 37,400 species are listed as threatened with extinction, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fishes, and plants.
The rate of extinction has increased significantly compared to natural background extinction rates, which are estimated to be one to five species per year. Some scientists suggest that the current extinction rate may be up to 1,000 times higher than the background rate.
It's important to note that the impacts of human activities on biodiversity and extinction are not uniform across all regions and ecosystems. Some areas are more affected than others, particularly those with high human population densities, extensive industrial activities, or intensive agricultural practices.
Efforts to mitigate the loss of biodiversity and reduce the rate of extinction involve various conservation strategies. These include the establishment of protected areas, habitat restoration, species reintroduction programs, regulation of wildlife trade, sustainable land-use practices, and international agreements and conventions focused on conservation, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Addressing the current extinction crisis requires global collaboration and a commitment to sustainable practices that prioritize the conservation of species and their habitats.