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Despite zoos' efforts, extinction rates on rise

Letter

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Re: Zoos Raise Questions Over Animal's Rights, Jan 7.

It is argued that humans can use other animals for our enjoyment because we can.

So how is that working for us so far? Despite the so-called conservation efforts of zoos, the rate of species extinction around the world is at an all-time high and is steadily increasing.

No doubt, we are the only species with the ability to drastically remake our environment and, because of our actions, the planet is in a real pickle. Global warming, deforestation, cancer rates, pollution -- we have made a real mess of things. To quote Albert Einstein, "you cannot solve a problem with the same thinking that caused the problem."

It is time we question how we have been using and abusing animals and the environment. Do the benefits outweigh the costs?

TRISH HOLDEN

Windsor
© The Windsor Star 2008