Insect Decline and Ecosystem Welfare: Why Invertebrate Loss Matters

The global decline of insect populations threatens ecosystem function, food security, and the welfare of countless species that depend on insects for food and pollination.

Key Facts

Insect populations have declined by up to 75% in monitored sites over the past 30 years
Agricultural pesticides, habitat loss, light pollution, and climate change are primary drivers of decline
Insects provide ecosystem services valued at over $57 billion annually in the United States alone
Pollinator declines directly threaten food production for humans and nutrition for wild herbivores
Insectivorous birds, bats, and reptiles suffer population declines as insect prey becomes scarce

Welfare Considerations

Insect decline is a cascade welfare issue: the loss of invertebrates reduces food availability for insectivorous vertebrates, weakens pollination services that support plant communities, and disrupts soil decomposition processes that sustain ecosystems. Many vertebrate species experience nutritional stress and reproductive failure as insect prey becomes less available. Conservation efforts that restore insect habitat also protect the welfare of insect-dependent vertebrates. Reducing pesticide use, restoring native vegetation, and reducing light pollution are tractable interventions with measurable impacts.

What You Can Do

Plant native wildflowers and reduce pesticide use in your garden to support local insect populations
Advocate for reduced agricultural pesticide use and expanded agri-environment schemes
Support organizations working on insect conservation and pollinator habitat restoration
Reduce or eliminate use of insecticides and artificial lights that attract and kill insects at night