1.SDG 15 LIFE ON LAND.
SDG 15 emphasizes the protection of terrestrial ecosystems, biodiversity, and endangered species. In Rajendran's poem, the exploitation of animals and insects highlights the dangers to biodiversity. Human activities, such as overhunting and habitat destruction, disrupt the ecological balance, leading to species decline and cascading effects on food chains. The poem illustrates how indifference toward these creatures endangers them and jeopardizes the delicate web of life that sustains humanity. SDG 15 calls for a sustainable approach to protect these species, recognizing the interconnectedness of life and the importance of preserving their habitats.
2. SDG 16 peace justice and strong institutions
Accountability and the rule of law are essential, along with peace, justice, and strong institutions. In "Animal and Insect Act," Rajendran highlights the abuse of power and the enforcement of draconian laws that disregard both animal and human rights. The poem illustrates how unchecked authority leads to ecological destruction and social injustice. When institutions prioritize exploitation over protection, they perpetuate cycles of violence against marginalized communities and the environment. Oppressive legislation often correlates with the abuses suffered by people and ecosystems, particularly affecting communities that rely on biodiversity for sustenance. Therefore, SDG 16 calls for justice and accountability, urging society to resist actions that threaten the livelihoods of all living beings and promote coexistence.
The bar chart presents the global issue of animal and insect exploitation by year, highlighting a concerning trend of increasing exploitation incidents.
The chart shows a clear upward trajectory for both animal and insect exploitation over the years 2010 to 2022. Animal exploitation incidents have seen a significant rise, with the number of cases nearly doubling from 2010 to 2022. Insect exploitation, while starting from a lower baseline, also shows a consistent upward trend, indicating a growing concern for insect welfare and conservation.
This data underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and action to address the issue of animal and insect exploitation. It calls for stronger regulations, stricter enforcement, and ethical practices in industries that rely on animal and insect resources.
The pie chart illustrates the estimated reliance on instinct across different animal groups from 2020 to 2024. Insects emerged as the group with the highest reliance on instinct, accounting for nearly 22% of their behavior. Mammals followed closely with 19.2%, suggesting a significant role of instinct in their actions, likely driven by factors such as maternal care, territorial behavior, and hunting instincts. Fish and amphibians exhibited a moderate reliance on instinct, with percentages around 17-18%, possibly influenced by migration patterns, feeding behaviors, and reproductive instincts. Reptiles and birds displayed the lowest estimated reliance on instinct, around 11-14%, suggesting a higher proportion of learned behaviors and adaptations in these groups. However, it's important to note that these are estimates, and individual species within each group may vary in their reliance on instinct.