Human beings have altered the planet so dramatically and extensively, the scars of our ways can easily be seen from space .

Today, three-quarters of earths land surface faces measurable human pressures , while just 3 percent of the worlds biodiversity hotspots remain unaltered, according to a new global analysis.

Theres little wonder why theres a biodiversity crisis, James Watson , a study co-author and director of science and research initiatives at the Wildlife Conservation Society , told The Huffington Post.

From deforestation and hunting to urban development and pollution, the future often seems depressingly bleak.The study describes human pressures as perversely intense, widespread and rapidly intensifying in places with high biodiversity. While it provides another dose of reality, it also provides a glimmer of hope.

Surprisingly, researchers found that between 1993 and 2009, the human footprint on the environment grew at a slower rate than both the global population and economy.

You wouldnt expect that, Watson told HuffPost. Still, he said, he hesitates to call the findings good news.