I think this can be accepted as Given. All organisms alter their environment to some extent. Though humans do not constitute the largest biomass - IIRC, that goes to microbes - our impact is magnified by our technology.
I'd like to see what would happen if ALL of the current researchers, etc were told to go home and we'll pay a new crew to evaluate your work and a second new crew to work on amelioration, if needed.
The lamenting and tearing of hair would be heard 'round the world!
This is ALL about MONEY.