TARMO SOOMERE ⟩ Allies are not left behind
Academic Tarmo Soomere discusses the urgent need to restore the health of ecosystems like fields, forests, and bogs in response to human demands that have triggered mass species extinction.
In his article, academic and TTÜ professor Tarmo Soomere emphasizes the crucial relationship humanity has with nature, which has been an ally since ancient times, providing essential resources such as air, water, food, clothing, and shelter. However, he notes that humanity's growing desires have led to unsustainable practices that endanger these ecosystems and trigger mass species extinctions. In light of this, Soomere advocates for urgent measures to restore the health of our natural environments.
Soomere references recommendations from the European Academies of Sciences, which suggest actionable steps to rejuvenate agriculture, forestry, and wetlands. These practices include sustainable land management and the reestablishment of biodiversity, which are essential not only for ecological balance but also for maintaining the resources human beings depend upon. He stresses the interconnectedness of human well-being and environmental health, warning that neglecting these ecosystems could worsen environmental crises.
The implications of Soomere’s message extend beyond Estonia, calling on a collective European responsibility to prioritize environmental sustainability. As human activity increasingly disrupts delicate ecosystems, the need for collaborative efforts to secure a stable and thriving environment becomes ever more critical. By restoring the health of our natural systems, we not only ensure the survival of various species but also safeguard humanity’s future existence on this planet.