Perhaps your definition of "human progress" could expand a little, to include "learning to be ecologically responsible"?
I don't agree with that. Humans are just one participant in the environment and we should respect the others.
My viewpoint is that those who are quick to trample on the weakest, including endangered animals, will likely find it easy to trample on the rights of the poor. It is not in my interest to support that potential future where might makes right. Both my interests and non-human interests can be served at the same time, with no conflicts if viewed in the long term.