OPINE.
OBSERVE
After I observe the current environmental issues, ponder their long-term effects, investigate the causes of species endangerment, nurture solutions for conservation, and express my thoughts on the importance of protecting endangered animals, I believe we must take immediate action
Ponder
It can be observed that most animals become extinct for three main reasons:
Poaching, Climate Change, and Deforestation are the biggest examples.
investigate
I have chosen representative animals based on the three main causes of extinction. For Poaching, I focused on parrots; for Climate Change, I looked into coral bleaching; and for Deforestation, I chose orangutans. I then conducted more detailed research on each of these examples.
nurture
In addition to investigating the causes of endangered species, I also researched the current efforts people are making to protect animals. I then considered how individuals can be encouraged to take more interest in endangered species. I believe the most effective way is to expose these issues through media and raise awareness among more people.
express
Endangered species have few means by which people can directly protect them. Moreover, as public interest increases, government efforts to conserve those species also rise. Therefore, I concluded that there needs to be campaign-based projects that can touch people's hearts and raise awareness.
pestle.
Political.
In South Korea, there is a law regarding the protection and management of wildlife.
According to Article 67 of the Wildlife Protection and Management Act, anyone who captures, collects, damages, or kills a critically endangered wildlife species (Category I) may face up to 5 years in prison or a fine ranging from 5 million to 50 million Korean won. Additionally, anyone involved in acts such as capturing or exporting endangered species can face up to 3 years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million Korean won.
In the case of the United States, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) was enacted, and reports show that the number of species protected under this law has increased, proving the effectiveness of such legislation in protecting endangered species.
Economic.
Businesses can purchase biodiversity credits, which represent a commitment to conserve a specific amount of biodiversity (such as protecting an endangered species or preserving a habitat). Encouraging consumers to support environmentally friendly and ethical products, such as sustainably sourced goods, can reduce demand for goods that harm endangered species.
SOcial.
All around the world, there are growing movements where people come together—such as through protests—to advocate for environmental protection.
On an individual level as well, awareness has significantly increased compared to the past, with more people making conscious efforts to reduce single-use products, adopt plant-based diets, or carry reusable tumblers for the sake of the environment.
TECHNOLOGICAL.
These days, a lot of attention is being focused on the electric vehicles created by Elon Musk. This is largely because he marketed them as a future-oriented technology aimed at protecting the environment. Many people have shown interest in this, and as fossil fuel supplies continue to dwindle, electric vehicles are expected to become even more prominent.
It is also widely known that electric vehicles emit significantly less CO2 compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars.
Beyond electric vehicles, technologies such as AI are also being developed to analyze disaster situations and support environmental efforts. However, there are still some who question whether these technological advancements are truly for the benefit of the environment.
EnvironmentaL.
There are laws such as the designation of wildlife protection areas and green belts (areas designated as redevelopment-free zones) to protect nature, but it is also frequent that these designated areas are removed and redevelopment takes place. In the case of South Korea, when an endangered species is found, the area itself is designated as a protected area to prevent development. However, on the other hand, there are continuous environmental destructions, such as mountain slopes being cut, due to the loosening of green belt areas.
Legal.
Mainly, there's a legal issue for overfishing. The USA has the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which governs marine fisheries in U.S. waters and aims to prevent overfishing, rebuild overfished stocks, and ensure sustainable practices.
Korea & Singapore also have their national fishing laws aligned with global sustainability goals (like restricting catches, fishing seasons, and protected zones).