Ecosystem degradation

Definition

Ecosystem degradation refers to the decline in the health and functionality of an ecosystem, often caused by human activities such as pollution, deforestation, and urban development. This decline leads to a loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecological processes, and the diminished ability of ecosystems to provide essential services like clean air and water. When ecosystems degrade, they can no longer support the species that rely on them, leading to further environmental issues and a negative impact on human communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ecosystem degradation can be caused by various human activities including industrial pollution, agriculture, urbanization, and deforestation.
2. Loss of biodiversity is a significant consequence of ecosystem degradation, which can lead to diminished resilience against environmental changes.
3. Restoration efforts are crucial to reverse ecosystem degradation, involving strategies like reforestation, wetland restoration, and pollution cleanup.
4. Ecosystem degradation not only affects wildlife but also negatively impacts human health and economic activities by reducing the availability of clean water and fertile land.
5. Mitigating ecosystem degradation requires an integrated approach that balances economic growth with environmental conservation.

Review Questions

• How does ecosystem degradation affect biodiversity and what are the long-term implications?
  • Ecosystem degradation leads to a decline in biodiversity as habitats become less hospitable for various species. This loss reduces the genetic diversity within populations and can result in species extinction. The long-term implications include weakened ecosystem resilience to environmental changes, making ecosystems more vulnerable to disturbances such as climate change or invasive species.
• Discuss the role of sustainable development in combating ecosystem degradation.
  • Sustainable development plays a vital role in addressing ecosystem degradation by promoting practices that meet human needs while preserving natural resources. It encourages responsible resource management, reducing waste and pollution, and supporting conservation efforts. By integrating ecological health into economic planning, sustainable development aims to restore degraded ecosystems and prevent future damage.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current strategies for ecosystem restoration in mitigating degradation.
  • Current strategies for ecosystem restoration include reforestation, wetland restoration, and pollution remediation. While many initiatives have shown promise in reversing some aspects of ecosystem degradation, their effectiveness often varies based on local conditions and species involved. Successful restoration requires not only addressing immediate damage but also creating resilient systems that can adapt to future changes. Long-term monitoring and community involvement are crucial for evaluating success and making necessary adjustments.

Related terms

Biodiversity: The variety of life forms within a given ecosystem, including the number of species, genetic diversity, and the variety of ecosystems themselves.

Ecosystem services: The benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, such as pollination, water purification, climate regulation, and soil fertility.

Sustainable development: A method of using resources that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.