More than a million species of flora and fauna threatened with extinction globally

Based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Endangered Species, more than a million species of flora and fauna are said to be endangered in the world today, the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) said.

They said, according to the Red List, more than 8,400 species of wildlife are endangered in the world and nearly 30,000 more species are threatened with extinction or at risk.

"The continual loss of species' habitats and ecosystems threatens every life on Earth." People everywhere depend on living and biodiversity-based resources to meet all their needs, such as food, fuel, medicine, shelter and clothing.

 Therefore, millions of people rely on the nature as the source of their livelihood and economic needs, "the CEJ said.

Sri Lanka is home to approximately 123 mammal species, 41 of which are threatened with extinction. Of the 16 endemic species are including bears, 14 are endangered. In the launching of development projects, efforts have to be made today to prevent adverse effects, especially the threats to wildlife habitats.

The CEJ has taken a number of legal measures over the past few years aimed at protecting wildlife habitats. (Chatuanga Samarawickrama)