Module Flashcards
What is the Anthropocene, and why is it significant?
The Anthropocene is an unofficial geologic time period that marks when human activity began significantly affecting Earth’s climate and ecosystems. It is significant because it highlights how human actions are breaching planetary boundaries, causing fundamental shifts in Earth systems.
What are the key impacts of the Anthropocene?
Key impacts include:
Climate change.
Resource extraction.
Biodiversity loss.
Land use changes.
Waste production.
These changes are leaving a distinct geological record and altering planetary processes.
What are planetary boundaries, and why are they important?
Planetary boundaries are limits within which humanity can safely operate to avoid destabilizing Earth’s systems. Exceeding these boundaries, such as for climate change or biodiversity, risks causing irreversible environmental damage.
How do perspectives on the Anthropocene vary?
- Geological perspective: Focuses on human impact leaving a stratigraphic record.
- Biosphere perspective: Highlights biodiversity loss and biogeochemical cycles.
- Cultural perspective: Examines the Anthropocene’s influence on art, architecture, and critiques of capitalism and environmental justice.
What is “The Great Acceleration,” and how does it relate to the Anthropocene?
The Great Acceleration refers to the rapid increase in human impacts on Earth systems, particularly since the mid-20th century. It includes trends like increased CO2 emissions, deforestation, and population growth, and is often considered the defining period of the Anthropocene.
What are the arguments for and against formalizing the Anthropocene as a geologic epoch?
For:
Robust evidence of human impact (e.g., CO2 levels, fly ash particles).
Distinct stratigraphic markers.
Against:
Too recent to qualify geologically.
Seen as a political statement rather than a scientific necessity.
How can the Anthropocene motivate sustainability?
The Anthropocene underscores the unprecedented scale of human influence, urging efforts to:
Work within planetary boundaries.
Promote interdisciplinary solutions involving science, economics, and humanities.
Develop sustainable practices to mitigate environmental harm.
What is natural capital, and why is it important?
Natural capital refers to the world’s stocks of natural assets, including soil, air, water, and living organisms, which provide ecosystem goods and services essential for human life, such as clean water, food, and climate regulation.
What are ecosystem goods and services, and how are they categorized?
Ecosystem goods and services are benefits humans derive from ecosystems, divided into:
Supporting: Soil formation, nutrient cycling.
Regulating: Climate and water quality.
Provisioning: Food, water, and medicines.
Cultural: Recreational and spiritual value.
What is a biome, and what factors determine its type?
A biome is a major ecological community defined by its vegetation and adapted organisms. Biomes are determined by precipitation, air temperature, and soil characteristics.
What are the five major types of biomes, and what ecosystem services do they provide?
Aquatic: Water filtration, climate regulation.
Grassland: Soil formation, grazing land.
Forest: Carbon sequestration, timber, biodiversity.
Desert: Mineral resources, habitat for adapted species.
Tundra: Carbon storage, cultural value.
How does agriculture impact natural ecosystems and biodiversity?
Agriculture converts natural ecosystems into agroecosystems, leading to:
Biodiversity loss.
Habitat destruction.
Altered nutrient cycles and soil erosion.
Water overuse and pollution.
What is deforestation, and why is it a concern?
Deforestation is the clearing of forests for agriculture or other uses, reducing biodiversity, disrupting water and soil quality, and releasing carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
How does soil health contribute to ecosystem services?
Healthy soil is biologically active and stable, supporting plant growth, nutrient cycling, and water filtration. Poor soil health from improper use can lead to reduced fertility and environmental damage.
What is desertification, and what causes it?
Desertification is the persistent reduction of ecosystems’ capacity to provide services, caused by factors such as overgrazing, deforestation, improper water use, and climate change.
