Silence of the natural world signals a biodiversity crisis

Studies reveal that natural soundscapes are diminishing due to loss of species and ecosystem degradation.

Phoebe Weston reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• Ecoacoustics research indicates a global reduction in the natural sounds of ecosystems due to declining species diversity and abundance.
• Declines in the diversity and intensity of natural sounds have been documented across North America and Europe over the past 25 years.
• Experts emphasize that sounds like bird calls and insect hums are vanishing, warning of "acoustic fossils" if protective measures are not taken.

Key quote:

"The changes are profound. And they are happening everywhere."

— Bernie Krause, U.S. soundscape recordist

Why this matters:

The disappearance of natural sounds not only signifies a loss of biodiversity but also marks a concerning trend in environmental health, affecting global ecosystems and human wellbeing. Read more: The health of wildlife is inseparable from our own.