Conservation is the study of Earth’s biological diversity and how to prevent its loss. It encompasses a wide range of practices and strategies, and seeks to preserve species and ecosystems both in their natural habitats and in captivity. The discipline is often compared to human physiology, in which the study of the workings of the human body is combined with a mission to save it from harm.
One obvious aspect of this is the prevention of species extinction, but it also involves preventing the loss of genetic diversity and the collapse of ecosystems. It is also concerned with reducing the environmental impacts of humans, whether from pollution or climate change.
For example, when the Indigenous people of Australia used their traditional method of controlled burning (fire management) to control wildfires, they conserved plant growth and prevented the spread of disease by removing dead vegetation that could easily spark more damaging fires. In addition, invasive species — plants and animals that move into new areas where they do not belong and cause harm — are major causes of biodiversity loss.
Conservation efforts are carried out at local, national and international levels, including through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, which oversees the sale of endangered animals, and the U.S. Endangered Species Act, which prohibits the sale of a variety of animals, such as California condors (Gymnogyps californianus). Individuals can take part in conservation by practicing water conservation, for instance, by fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, and collecting rainwater for gardening and other non-potable uses.