Beyond the Panda Stereotype: A Call for Accurate Biodiversity Communication
By Shen Yihang
In recent years, with the advancement of ecological civilization construction and the enhancement of environmental protection awareness, biodiversity conservation has gradually become a focal point of public attention. However, in the process of biodiversity communication, some misunderstandings and stereotypes have also emerged, one of which is the simplistic comparison of species value to that of the giant panda, often claiming that certain species are "more precious than pandas."
This seemingly attention-grabbing approach, however, overlooks several crucial aspects:
1. Ignoring the Unique Value of Each Species:
The giant panda, as a unique Chinese species, holds significant cultural symbolism and research value. However, its preciousness does not represent the value of all other species. Many less prominent species play vital roles in maintaining ecosystem balance and providing ecological services. For instance, bee pollination is essential for agricultural production, while coral reefs provide critical habitats for marine life. Moreover, the annual financial support allocated to giant panda conservation far exceeds that of other species, creating an unfair comparison.
2. Fostering Species Discrimination:
Such comparisons can easily lead to discrimination among species. People may develop biases or neglect certain species, deeming them less important than rare or endangered ones. This mindset hinders a comprehensive understanding and action towards biodiversity conservation.
3. The Incommensurability of Species Value:
Quantifying and comparing species value is inherently challenging. The impacts of different species on human society and natural ecosystems vary greatly, rendering direct comparisons difficult. Some species may possess significant economic value, while others play crucial roles in maintaining ecosystem balance. Biodiversity science still holds many unknowns, representing a vast treasure trove waiting to be unearthed. Our current focus should be on mitigating the rapid loss of biodiversity.
4. Overlooking the Holistic Nature of Biodiversity Conservation:
Biodiversity conservation extends beyond protecting individual rare species; it encompasses safeguarding the entire ecosystem's diversity and integrity. Each species forms an integral part of the ecosystem, interdependent and interconnected. Comprehensive measures are required to protect biodiversity, encompassing all species and their supporting habitats.
5. The Perils of Exaggeration:
Such comparisons can lead to oversimplification. The IUCN Red List classifies thousands of species as "Critically Endangered" (CR) or "Endangered" (EN), while the giant panda's status falls under a lower threat category. Should we label every endangered species as "more precious than pandas"? Does this serve any purpose beyond attracting attention?
Consider the case of the "bekko tombo (libellula angelina)" The original statement by Chen Qiankuo, head of the water ecology health monitoring project at the Haidian District Water Affairs Bureau in Beijing, was: "Compared to the well-known national treasure, the giant panda, the Dragonfly's current endangered level is even higher than the panda's, sharing the same level as the national first-class protected animals Chinese Sturgeon and Baiji Dolphin."
Chen Qiankuo's statement is factual, avoiding exaggeration. However, media outlets transformed it into sensational headlines like "More Precious Than Pandas!" This sensationalization is highly inappropriate. Exaggerating a partial fact (the IUCN Red List categorization) into a sweeping generalization ("more precious than pandas") is misleading and counterproductive.
6. Embracing a Nuanced Approach to Species Value:
When discussing species value, we must avoid simplistic comparisons and quantifications. Instead, we should consider a range of factors, including intrinsic and extrinsic value, potential and real-world value, subjective perceptions, and objective facts.
7. Promoting Accurate Biodiversity Communication:
In biodiversity communication, we should avoid using phrases like "more precious than pandas." Instead, we should emphasize the unique value and importance of each species, advocating for respect for nature and biodiversity conservation.
8. The Crucial Role of Media:
Media, as a vital channel of information dissemination, plays a pivotal role in biodiversity conservation and communication. Media professionals should enhance their understanding of biodiversity's importance, threats, and conservation measures. They should avoid oversimplification and sensationalism to prevent public misunderstandings and stereotypes, enabling effective ecological civilization communication.
（Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's views. Comments, critiques, and discussions are welcome.）
Author: Shen Yihang
Editor: Samantha
Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776
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