A UN report found a widespread extinction underway. Now what?

Sota
"Sota", a young rhino named after Jeff Muntifering's home state. Muntifering is working in Namibia to prevent the extinction of the black rhino, one of the world's most endangered species.
Courtesy of Minnesota Zoo | Save the Rhino Trust

Millions of Earth's plant and animal species are facing extinction. According to a report by the U.N. environmental group, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, it could be the largest environmental crisis in human history.

The report highlighted that our current global response has been minimal; it urged global leaders to set aside differences for public good. Later this year, the environmental group will release its full study detailing the potential consequences of this species extinction.

Guest host Tiffany Hanssen talked with the chief scientist and senior vice president of the World Wildlife Fund, Rebecca Shaw, about the U.N. report and the steps that must be taken to restore and protect the natural world.

To listen to the full conversation you can use the audio player above.