Abstract

In recent decades, biodiversity loss has greatly impacted planetary and human health. Children are at additional risk of adverse effects due to unique biological, developmental, and behavioral factors, as well as their longer exposure to an altered planet as a function of their young age. These effects are heightened for children living in vulnerable socioeconomic conditions. Here, we review the role of biodiversity loss on accelerating the consequences of climate change from the perspective of pediatric health. With the loss of biodiversity's protective role against the consequences of climate change, the adverse effects of the changing planet are impacting pediatric health. For example, trees provide shelter against heat waves, unsealed soil and wetlands mitigate flooding, and rewilded green space hosts high microbial richness and consequently supports immune and mental health. The effects of the loss of biodiversity may impact the discovery and development of novel pharmaceuticals and thus the future of children's medicine as a whole. We also highlight areas for further study and detail efforts that have been made to restore biodiversity, with the aim to improve the current and future health of local pediatric populations. IMPACT: Loss of biodiversity is occurring at a rapid pace affecting the health of the planet and disproportionately pediatric health. This paper describes the role of biodiversity loss in accelerating the impact of climate change on children's health, and highlights particularly vulnerable populations. This paper details steps that can be taken to maintain and restore biodiversity at the local and global levels to protect these populations and pediatric health in general.

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