People depend on biodiversity. But today, plant and animal species go extinct faster than at any point in human history. The latest book in the Planet in Danger series, The Loss of Biodiversity explores the relationship between human beings and the living world and the threat to it posed by climate change. On-the-ground stories highlight how people maintain biodiversity to better their own lives. The latest research details the fascinating ways living things play a part in our food, medicines, and inventions. Full-color photos, maps, and a glossary illustrate ideas. A timeline places biodiversity in history. Suggested resources steer readers to further information.