What’s going on?
Insects account for about 80% of animal life on Earth, but all around the world, their populations are declining. Factors behind the decline include habitat loss, deforestation, increased use of pesticides and other agrochemicals, climate change, and disease. Some of the most threatened insect species include moths and butterflies, bees, and beetles.
Why it matters.
Insects are a fundamental part of food webs and help maintain ecosystem balance. They don’t just help birds and reptiles stay alive though, insects also offer many benefits to humans. Roughly one-third of the world’s food crops rely on pollinators like bees, moths, and butterflies. Some insects are decomposers, meaning they break down dead materials and help make nutrients available in the soil. Only a small portion of insects are considered pests to humans, and many beneficial insects act as predators to the pest species.
What you can do.
- Create insect-friendly outdoor spaces with native plant species
- Limit pesticide and herbicide usage
- Limit the use of outdoor lighting
- Educate others & counter negative perceptions of insects
- Spread the word and let others know how they can help protect insects!
- Learn more at our “The Insect Effect” page