The average size of global wildlife populations has decreased by 73% in 50 years, a new study by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) found, according to "abc News".

The study, titled The Living Planet Report 2024, monitored wildlife populations of 5 species of amphibians, birds, fish, mammals and reptiles between 495 and 1970.

The findings showed a decline in every indicator that tracks the state of nature on a global scale.

"The findings of this report are alarming," said Anke Schulmeister-Oldenhove, senior forest policy officer at WWF.

"EU consumption continues to be a major driver of global biodiversity loss, particularly in critical ecosystems such as the Amazon, which is approaching an irreversible tipping point," she said.

The study found that freshwater populations suffered the most severe declines, being reduced by 85%.

This was followed by terrestrial populations, which fell by 69%. Marine populations were found to have declined by 56%.

"Nature is issuing a distress call," said Dr. Kirsten Schuijt, director general of WWF International.

"The associated crises of nature loss and climate change are pushing wildlife and ecosystems beyond their limits," she added.

Regionally, the study found the fastest declines in Latin America and the Caribbean, where an "alarming" 95% decline was recorded.

This was followed by Africa, where the population fell by 76%, and then Asia and the Pacific, where the decline was 60%.

The "catastrophic" loss of species was found to be mainly caused by:

-Habitat degradation and loss – which the study says is largely driven by the human food system – as the main driver of population loss in every region of the world.

-Overexploitation, and invasive species and diseases.

-Climate change- as another major driver of population loss, although its impact was greatest in Latin America and the Caribbean.

-Pollution – as a major driver in North America, as well as in Asia and the Pacific.

The study warns that "global tipping points" are very likely if current trends continue.

"Nature is disappearing at an alarming rate," the report says.

While some changes may be small and gradual, their cumulative impacts can cause a larger and faster change.

When cumulative impacts reach a threshold, change becomes self-perpetuating, resulting in substantial, often sudden, and potentially irreversible changes. This is called a turning point.

The report warns that the world is failing to meet global goals.

"Decisions and actions taken during the next five years will be decisive for the future of life on Earth", emphasized Dr. Schuijt from WWF.