Read the following passage about wildlife conservation and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

[I] Wildlife conservation refers to the efforts made to protect and preserve wild animal species and their habitats. [II] It is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, which plays a vital role in ecosystem stability and health (Smith & Jones, 2018). [III] Unfortunately, many species are threatened due to habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change, making conservation efforts more urgent than ever. [IV]

One of the primary reasons for wildlife conservation is the preservation of biodiversity. A diverse range of species contributes to ecosystem services, such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation. The loss of a single species can disrupt these services and lead to ecological imbalances. For instance, the decline of pollinators like bees has serious implications for food production and agriculture (Global Biodiversity Outlook, 2020).

Moreover, wildlife conservation has significant economic benefits. Many communities depend on ecotourism, which relies on healthy wildlife populations and intact ecosystems. According to a study by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), ecotourism can generate billions of dollars in revenue, providing jobs and supporting local economies (WWF, 2021). Protecting wildlife not only safeguards natural resources but also creates sustainable livelihoods for local populations.

However, effective wildlife conservation requires a collaborative approach. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities must work together to implement policies and strategies that promote conservation efforts. Community-based conservation initiatives, where local people actively participate in protecting their natural resources, have shown promising results. These initiatives empower communities and ensure that conservation efforts are tailored to local needs and contexts (Bennett & Dearden, 2014).

(Adapted from Wildlife Conservation and Its Importance by Smith, Jones, and others)

Which of the following best summarizes the passage?