Climate Change Flashcards
A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Ecosystem
Example: The destruction of the rainforest has a profound impact on the global ecosystem.
The presence or introduction into the environment of contaminants or substances that cause harm.
Pollution
Example: Air pollution from factories is a major concern in many urban areas.
Energy collected from resources that are naturally replenished on a human timescale.
Renewable energy (noun):
Example: Solar and wind power are examples of renewable energy sources.
The protection and preservation of natural resources.
Conservation
Example: National parks play a crucial role in the conservation of biodiversity.
Capable of being maintained over the long term without harming the environment.
Sustainable
Example: Using sustainable farming practices helps protect the soil and water.
Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
Biodegradable
Example: The use of biodegradable packaging reduces environmental impact.
Relating to or concerned with the relations between organisms and their environment.
Ecological
Example: Ecological balance is essential for the health of our planet.
Susceptible to harm or damage.
Vulnerable
Example: Polar bears are vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
: To fell or chop down trees.
Cut down
Example: The logging industry has been cutting down vast areas of the Amazon rainforest.
To stop using a particular resource.
Turn off
Example: We should all strive to turn off lights and appliances when not in use to save energy.
To remove dirt or pollutants from a place.
Clean up
Example: Community volunteers organized a beach cleanup to address coastal pollution.
Over or after a long period of time; eventually.
In the long run
Example: Conserving water is crucial for our survival in the long run.
To find a compromise between two opposing factors.
Strike a balance
Example: It’s essential to strike a balance between economic development and environmental protection.
To do something about a situation or problem.
Take action
Example: Governments must take action to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Biodiversity
Example: The conservation of biodiversity is essential for a healthy ecosystem.
The total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly or indirectly by human activities.
Carbon footprint
Example: Individuals can reduce their carbon footprint by using public transportation.
Capable of working successfully; feasible.
Viable
Example: Finding viable alternatives to fossil fuels is crucial for sustainable energy.
Reduced in quality or condition.
Degraded
Example: Deforestation has led to degraded soil quality in many regions.
To gradually eliminate or stop using something.
Phase out
Example: The government plans to phase out single-use plastics to reduce environmental impact.
To cause or create a change or result.
Bring about
Example: Sustainable practices can bring about positive changes in our environment.
Very close to experiencing something, usually something negative.
On the brink of
Example: The endangered species is on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss.
To make a great effort to achieve something.
Strive for
Example: We should strive for a future where humans coexist harmoniously with nature.
The continuing and spreading results of an event or action.
Ripple effect
Example: Planting trees can have a positive ripple effect on the entire ecosystem.
The action of clearing a wide area of trees.
Deforestation
Example: Deforestation is a major contributor to the loss of biodiversity.
A layer of ozone high up in the Earth’s atmosphere that absorbs most of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Ozone layer
Example: Depletion of the ozone layer is a global environmental concern.
Having a pH below 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions.
Acidic
Example: Acidic rain can harm aquatic ecosystems and soil quality.
Capable of recovering quickly from difficult conditions.
Resilient
Example: Resilient ecosystems can better withstand the impact of climate change.
When rainwater or melting snow flows over the surface of the ground.
Run off
Example: Urbanization often leads to increased runoff, causing water pollution.
To reduce or control the release of pollutants into the atmosphere.
Curb emissions
Example: Implementing strict regulations is crucial to curb emissions from industrial activities.
Confronting a difficult situation or challenge.
In the face of
Example: In the face of climate change, global cooperation is imperative.
To be proactive and take the first steps in a particular situation.
Take the initiative
Example: Individuals can take the initiative by adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives.
To ignore or pretend not to notice something.
Turn a blind eye to
Example: We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the environmental consequences of our actions.
The ability to maintain ecological balance and avoid depletion of natural resources.
Sustainability
Example: Sustainable agriculture focuses on long-term environmental and economic viability.
To introduce or implement gradually.
Phase in
Example: Governments should phase in policies that promote renewable energy.
To separate something into smaller parts.
Break down
Example: Microorganisms help break down organic matter in compost.
Surrounded by or in the middle of something.
In the midst of
Example: In the midst of rapid urbanization, preserving green spaces becomes crucial.
A very small amount compared to the whole.
A drop in the ocean
Example: Individual efforts, while important, can sometimes feel like a drop in the ocean in addressing global environmental challenges.
Projects or actions aimed at promoting environmental sustainability.
Green initiatives
Example: Many companies are adopting green initiatives to reduce their ecological footprint.
Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local communities.
Ecotourism
Example: Ecotourism can contribute to both environmental conservation and local economic development.
Not able to be replaced or regenerated naturally at a rate equal to its consumption.
Non-renewable
Example: Fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of energy.
Causing or capable of causing death.
Lethal
Example: Pesticides can have lethal effects on insect populations and ecosystems.
To reduce the amount of something.
Cut back on
Example: Individuals should cut back on single-use plastics to minimize environmental impact.
To gradually damage or erode something
Wear down
Example: Natural processes, such as wind and water, can wear down mountains over time.
Leading or most advanced in a particular field.
At the forefront of
- Example: Sustainable technologies are at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change.
Considering the overall perspective.
In the grand scheme of things
Example: Recycling may seem small, but in the grand scheme of things, it contributes to a healthier planet.
The final small burden that causes a large cumulative effect.
Straw that breaks the camel’s back
Example: Each additional deforested area could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back in terms of biodiversity loss.
Weakened or damaged.
Impaired
Example: The impaired water quality in the river is affecting aquatic life.
Tending to spread aggressively and harmfully.
Invasive
Example: Invasive species can disrupt native ecosystems and biodiversity.
The natural home or environment of an organism.
Habitat
Example: Wetlands serve as a vital habitat for various bird species.
