How exactly does urbanization cause a loss of biodiversity?
In 2000, approximately 82% of the population of the United States lived in cities, and that figure is expected to rise to 89% by the year 2050 [9]. Many aspects of a city cause major threats to ecosystems, and consequently decreases in biodiversity. A handy way to remember these causes is the commonly used acronym 'HIPPOC':
Habitat Loss
Invasive Species
Pollution
Pathogens
Overexploitation
Climate Change
Habitat Loss
Invasive Species
Pollution
Pathogens
Overexploitation
Climate Change
Primary Sources
9. "World Urbanization Prospects, the 2011 Revision." United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, 5 Apr. 2012. Web. 24 Feb. 2014. <http://esa.un.org/unup/Documentation/highlights.htm>.