Threatened evergreen sclerophyllous forests, scrubs or woodlands biome

Nature

Sclerophyllous (also known as Mediterranean) shrublands and woodlands occur in only five parts of the world, yet host more than one-fifth of all known plant species on Earth.

Background

The global significance of threatened evergreen sclerophyllous forests, scrubs, and woodlands emerged in the late 20th century, as ecologists documented alarming declines in Mediterranean-type ecosystems across continents. International conservation bodies, notably the IUCN and WWF, highlighted these biomes’ unique biodiversity and vulnerability to land conversion, fire regimes, and climate change. Subsequent research underscored their irreplaceable ecological roles, prompting targeted conservation initiatives and inclusion in global biodiversity hotspot assessments. (https://www.iucn.org/resources/issues-briefs/mediterranean-forests)

Incidence

Evergreen sclerophyllous forests, scrubs, and woodlands—characterized by tough, drought-resistant foliage—are increasingly threatened across Mediterranean-type regions in southern Europe, California, Chile, South Africa, and Australia. These biomes face escalating pressures from urban expansion, agricultural conversion, invasive species, and climate change, resulting in significant habitat loss and fragmentation. The global extent of these ecosystems has diminished markedly, with some areas experiencing up to 80% reduction in original cover, making their conservation a matter of international concern.
In 2022, Portugal’s Serra da Arrábida Natural Park experienced severe wildfires that devastated large tracts of evergreen sclerophyllous woodland. The fires, intensified by prolonged drought and heatwaves, destroyed critical habitats for endemic plant and animal species, highlighting the acute vulnerability of these ecosystems to climate-driven disturbances.

Claim

The rapid decline of evergreen sclerophyllous forests, scrubs, and woodlands is an urgent crisis that demands immediate global attention. These unique biomes are irreplaceable reservoirs of biodiversity and vital for climate regulation. Their destruction accelerates species extinction, soil erosion, and climate instability. Ignoring this problem is reckless and short-sighted—protecting these threatened ecosystems must be a top priority for governments, conservationists, and citizens alike if we care about our planet’s future.

Counter-claim

The so-called “threat” to evergreen sclerophyllous forests, scrubs, or woodlands is vastly overstated. These biomes have survived countless natural changes over millennia and will continue to do so. Focusing on their preservation diverts attention and resources from more pressing global issues like poverty, healthcare, and economic development. Frankly, the alarmism surrounding their decline is unnecessary and distracts from real, immediate human concerns that deserve our attention and action.