Future Prospects

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The current status of the Mediterranean Basin is relatively good. Human population is still low and mostly focused in the coastal areas, which is probably why so many old-growth forests still exist across the mountain tops. However, the survival of endemic flora and fauna and the ecoregion as a whole relies on the local community, for their actions have the largest impact on the future of the Mediterranean Basin. If the community rallies itself to protect its home and its unique habitat, the Mediterranean Basin will thrive. Currently, deforestation is mild, and a majority of old-growth forests and endemic species are intact at the tops of mountains in the area. (www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/pa1218) Further protection will ensure that the Mediterranean Basin will remain in excellent condition. However, if the community's refusal to live sustainably continues, the Mediterranean Basin's ecosystem will surely be destroyed. Old-growth forests and biodiversity will disappear due to forest fires and clear cutting, and grazing and poor forestry management will modify the ecosystem and harm endemic species. Without the creation of protected areas, soon even the tips of the highest mountains will be dominated by monoculture, and the many endemic species of plants and animals will quickly become extinct.

Though admittedly not the worst, the human impacts on the Mediterranean Basin could be greatly improved. A crucial starting point is to address the reasons why the local populace is against the protection of its ecosystem. If the reason is economic, such as the argument that protected areas infringe upon logging opportunities, then an alternate or more sustainable solution should be implemented. For example, creating a law similar to the US's Multiple Use and Sustained Use Act of 1960 would allow them to get timber from their forests while simultaneously protecting the forests from being completely destroyed. Better communication and cooperation with the locals could also stop the deliberate start of forest fires, a method the locals often use to protest the creation of more protected areas. Education could also go a long way; if the community is made aware of its unique ecosystem and the danger it's in, they may be more invested in efforts to protect it. Additionally, educating outsiders by encouraging traveling over tourism could help increase outside interest in protecting the Mediterranean Basin's ecosystem. While tourism is often harmful to the environment, travel can be highly beneficial, as it promotes living and learning in harmony with ecosystems such as the Mediterranean Basin. The more people who care about the survival of the Mediterranean Basin, the more likely it is to thrive rather than perish.