Threats to ecosystems and biodiversity

On this page

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

Loss of habitat and fragmentation

Many factors, including those listed below, have contributed to habitat loss and habitat fragmentation in B.C. When we lose habitat from ecosystems, they become fragmented. Biodiversity can be weakened because some species may not be able to find adequate resources or move freely through the ecosystem.  

Extractive 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 a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. These changes have affected various species of wildlife and impacted the ability of First Nations communities and people to exercise their inherent rights on their territories. Ensuring resource use is sustainable into the future requires adopting a more holistic approach to considering ecosystems, communities and economies.

Climate change

People living in British Columbia are increasingly experiencing: 

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

In addition to loss of life and impacts on infrastructure, property, revenue and habitat, climate change has had a profound effect on the shifting habitat ranges of animals and their food sources. 

Pollution

We know that pollution can have long-term, far-reaching impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health. Pollutants can travel throughout and between 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 that healthy ecosystems are maintained for future generations.

Invasive species

Invasive species are plants or animals that are not native to the province or are living outside of their natural distribution ranges. Invasive species negatively impact British Columbia’s environment, people and economy. Invasive species are recognized globally as the second-greatest threat to biodiversity after direct habitat loss due to human activities.