Answer:

Biodiversity includes the various forms of life on Earth, encompassing animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms, such as bacteria. These diverse species work together in complex ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life. Biodiversity sustains vital aspects of human existence, including food, clean water, medicine, and shelter.

• At least 1.2 million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction, with many facing this threat before 2100. These species include amphibians, cycads, and corals.
• Since the 16th century, we've witnessed the extinction of at least 680 vertebrates and nearly 600 plants. Currently, species are disappearing at a rate 10 to 1,000 times faster than the natural 'background' rate of extinction.
• According to the Living Planet Report 2022, we've experienced an average 69% loss in the abundance of mammal, bird, reptile, fish, and amphibian species since 1970.
• Populations of vertebrates in freshwater ecosystems have declined even more, by an average of 83% over the same period.

• Trends in plants, fungi, and invertebrates, such as insects, are not as well documented but severe declines have been observed in some regions. 
• For instance, in Germany, about 70% of plant species have declined since the 1960s.

• Reduced Food Security: Biodiversity loss can decrease agricultural productivity and make food systems more susceptible to pests, diseases, and climate change.
• Decline in Human Health: Biodiversity plays a critical role in the development of new medicines, as many drugs are derived from plants or animals.
• Economic Losses: Biodiversity supports numerous industries, including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism. Its loss can reduce the productivity and sustainability of these industries, leading to economic losses and reduced employment opportunities.
• Loss of Cultural Values: Biodiversity holds cultural and spiritual significance, particularly for indigenous communities. The loss of species and ecosystems can result in the erosion of cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and spiritual connections to nature.
• Increased Vulnerability to Natural Disasters: Biodiversity loss can reduce the ability of ecosystems to buffer natural disasters like floods and storms, increasing the vulnerability of human settlements to these events.
• Reduced Resilience to Climate Change: Biodiversity loss can diminish the capacity of ecosystems to adapt to changing climate conditions, potentially exacerbating the impacts of climate change on human societies.

The indiscriminate use of natural resources makes it humanity's primary responsibility to preserve and protect biodiversity. While national and international conventions, policies, and measures are essential, individuals have a vital role to play in biodiversity conservation.