Environment & resources · Both
Ecosystems & Natural Resources
Ecosystems link climate, soil, plants and animals. Resource questions focus on demand, conflict and sustainable management.
Rainforest example
• Nutrient cycle is rapid; soils can be poor if forest is cleared
• Deforestation causes: logging, agriculture, mining, settlement
• Impacts: biodiversity loss, climate effects, indigenous communities
• Management: protection, sustainable forestry, ecotourism, debt-for-nature
Resources and sustainability
Sustainability = meeting present needs without damaging future generations’ ability to meet theirs.
Water supply, energy and minerals all involve distribution issues and management choices.
Practice questions
1. Give two causes of deforestation.
2. What does sustainability mean?