Why Do Plants Get Less Protection Than Animals Under U.S. Environmental Laws?

Plants are given less protection and funding compared to animals under U.S. environmental laws, despite being the foundation of terrestrial life. Even though plants form the basis of terrestrial life, they receive significantly less protection under U.S. environmental laws, especially the Endangered Species Act. In fact, a study published in BioScience revealed that plants are the least funded group for recovery efforts, receiving less than half the amount allocated to animals like amphibians and invertebrates. This bias persists despite the fact that more plants are considered 'endangered' in the U.S. than animals. The historical precedent of considering animals as property of the monarch or society, while plants are seen as property of the landowner, may contribute to this disparity. While it is illegal to kill listed animals without a permit, listed plants can be deliberately destroyed without a permit or mitigation efforts. This stark difference in protection highlights the urgent need for a reassessment of environmental laws and policies to ensure that the foundation of our ecosystems receives the necessary attention and resources.