Biology (school) · Part 08
Humans and the environment
How people change ecosystems and what can be done to protect them.
Last updated
- BiodiversityThe variety of different living things in an area. A high biodiversity ecosystem is more stable.
- Greenhouse effectGases like carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in the air, keeping Earth warm enough for life.
- Global warmingThe rise in Earth's average temperature caused by extra greenhouse gases from human activity.
- DeforestationThe clearing of large areas of forest, often to make farmland or sell timber.
- Peat bogA wet habitat where dead plants build up slowly and store carbon for thousands of years.
- EutrophicationWhen fertiliser runs into water, algae grow too fast, then die and use up the oxygen so fish suffocate.
- Air pollutionHarmful gases and particles in the air, such as sulfur dioxide that causes acid rain or smoke particles that damage lungs.
- ConservationProtecting and managing living things and habitats so they are not lost.
- Sustainable developmentMeeting today's needs without using up resources that future people will need.
- Food securityHaving enough safe, nutritious food to feed everyone. It is challenged by a growing population and changing climate.