Animal Quote by Thomas Lovejoy
“Natural species are the library from which genetic engineers can work. Genetic engineers don't make new genes, they rearrange existing ones. Speaking as World Wildlife Fund Executive Vice President, stating the need to conserve biodiversity, even plants and animals having no immediate use, as a unique repository of genes for possible future biogengineering applications.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: WWF Biodiversity Conservation Forum, 1995
Biodiversity holds a vast library of genetic material; preserving all species safeguards future biotechnological possibilities.
In simple terms: All living things store genes useful for future science.
Protect ecosystems to maintain genetic resources.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- environmental policy
- land use planning
- research funding
- public education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Which species might hold the most valuable genes?
- How to prioritize conservation with limited budgets?
Not all species will be useful; resources are limited.