Question

Explain the narrowly utilitarian argument in favour of conservation of biodiversity.

Answer 1

The narrowly utilitarian argument in favor of biodiversity conservation emphasizes the direct economic benefits humans gain from nature. These benefits include food (cereals, pulses, fruits), firewood, fiber, construction material, industrial products like tannins and dyes, and medicinal products. Conservation ensures that these resources remain available and supports bioprospecting, which can bring enormous benefits to biodiversity-rich nations. Thus, conserving biodiversity is necessary for the present economic and resource needs of humans.