Read the passage from "African Elephant Poaching Has Declined, But Study Warns They Are Still Vulnerable.” 1) The relationship between elephants and financial strain isn’t seen only in poaching. 2) Last month, Botswana removed its elephant hunting ban, partly in an effort to monetize conservation efforts. 3) Zimbabwe made $2.7 million after selling more than 90 elephants to China and Dubai. 4) To put it simply, until the people are living in better conditions, elephants will continue to be targeted.

What is the purpose of the phrase "to put it simply” in the fourth sentence?

A. It introduces the evidence.
B. It connects two similar ideas.
C. It helps wrap up the paragraph.
D. It suggests actions for the reader to take.