Biotic systems and diversity—Report of working group 4, interlaken workshop for past global changes

• Published in: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology [PALAEOGEOGR., PALAEOCLIMATOL., PALAEOECOL.]. Vol. 82, no. 1-2. 1990 Vol. 82; no. 1-2; pp. 159 - 168
• Main Authors: Ricklefs, R.E., Buffetaut, E., Hallam, A., Hsu, K., Jablonski, D., Kauffman, E.G., Legendre, S., Martin, P., McLaren, D.J., Myers, N., Traverse, A.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.05.1990
• Subjects: Brackish; Freshwater; Marine
• ISSN: 0031-0182; 1872-616X
• DOI: 10.1016/S0031-0182(12)80029-0

In this report, both the common and distinctive features of extinction episodes in the past are characterized, and the current one of our own making. The fossil record offers clear insights into the general patterns of global crises. Without drastic intervention to alter current trends of the human population and its abuse of the environment, we are surely headed for a general and catastrophic deterioration and, finally, total collapse of the Earth's life support systems.