Question

Briefly discuss the narrowly utilitarian arguments for conserving biodiversity.

Answer 1

This argument focuses on the direct benefits humans get from biodiversity for their immediate needs. It provides useful resources like food, medicines, fuel, and industrial products. It mainly deals with human survival and profit, showing what we can use or obtain from nature.

Examples:

• Food: Crops like rice, wheat, and fruits come from wild plants that were domesticated.
• Medicine: Plants like rosy periwinkle provide drugs such as vincristine used in cancer treatment.
• Industrial products: Materials like timber, rubber, and fibres (cotton) come from different species.