Tropical forests hold most of the world’s insect diversity, yet long-term monitoring is scarce. New syntheses suggest land conversion, logging, climate extremes, pesticides, urban light, and invasive species may be eroding insect communities and the services they provide. The risks extend beyond biodiversity to pollination, nutrient cycling, pest control, and public health.
Insects are revealing how quickly the planet is changing. Freshwater species are declining, with many losses still undocumented. Rising pesticide use and polluted runoff are placing new pressures on rivers and wetlands. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies are shifting their ranges as climate changes, reshaping ecosystems and food production. At the same time, mosquitoes and ticks are expanding into new regions as temperatures warm, increasing disease risks. These shifts show insects acting as early signals of accelerating environmental change.
Reboot Development argues that growth depends on healthy nature. The World Bank links degraded forests, soils, air, and water to slower GDP and poorer health. Forests store “green water” that stabilizes crops and drought risk. Excess fertilizer lowers yields and pollutes rivers and coasts. Dirty air and unsafe water cut learning and productivity and cause millions of deaths. Cities can cool and save energy through greening and compact design. The report calls for better data, smart policies, and rapid evaluation.
