Economic Inequality Predicts Biodiversity Loss
2007
Economic Inequality and Biodiversity Loss
Sample size: 45
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Mikkelson Gregory M., Gonzalez Andrew, Peterson Garry D.
Primary Institution: McGill University
Hypothesis
How strongly is economic inequality related to biodiversity loss?
Conclusion
Economic inequality is significantly linked to biodiversity loss, with higher inequality associated with more threatened species.
Supporting Evidence
- Countries with higher income inequality have more threatened species.
- The Gini ratio of income inequality has a significant power relationship with biodiversity loss.
- After controlling for other factors, income inequality remains a strong predictor of biodiversity loss.
Takeaway
If some people have a lot more money than others, it can hurt the plants and animals around us.
Methodology
Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between economic inequality and biodiversity loss across countries and US states.
Limitations
The study is limited by the availability of data for certain variables and the sample size of 45 countries and states.
Statistical Information
P-Value
6.4×10−6
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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