We have a crisis on our hands

Many people have interpreted Genesis 1:26-28 as a mandate to dominate the earth. One of the many ways in which humans have ‘dominated’ life on this planet and shown little concern for living creatures, is through the destruction of whole species. It is not simply a question of hunting animals or fishing our rivers. Humans have had an attitude of superiority that has led to many species becoming extinct and others being endangered.
We have removed the forest habitats of some species, polluted the water habitats of others and poisoned the soil habitats of still others. In the name of human progress, many living species have been considered disposable. And sad to say, we have often done so thinking we are doing God’s will! Our past slaughter of the whale, perhaps the largest living being in creation today, is a good example of our desire to dominate.
Identify some local endangered species which groups are now seeking to preserve. On what basis would you join such a group? Is there a role for the church to play in protecting endangered species from extinction?