Animals and Insects

WWF: Global Wildlife Populations Plummeted 60% In 40 Years

A new report from the group found that man-made factors are linked to substantial biodiversity losses.

WWF: Global Wildlife Populations Plummeted 60% In 40 Years
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Human activity has contributed to world wildlife populations declining by 60 percent since 1970 in what the World Wildlife Fund is calling a "mindblowing" trend. 

A new WWF report looked at more than 4,000 animal species in locations around the world for the past four decades to come to that conclusion. 

Researchers found that losses of biodiversity are due to man-made factors, like population growth, deforestation, agriculture and climate change.

While the findings may seem discouraging, the WWF suggests there's still some hope if urgent action is taken. 

It's recommending an international deal similar to the Paris climate agreement, but focused on protecting wildlife and reversing human impacts on nature. 

Earlier this month, the United Nations called for global policy changes to curb the potentially devastating effects of climate change. 

Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN