The Biodiversity Crisis & Human Impact on our Planet Flashcards
What is meant by biodiversity crisis?
the elevated loss of species on earth, far beyond the normal extinction rate
Why are some scientists suggesting that we are in the middle of the 6th mass extinction?
extinction is a natural phenomenon, it occurs at a natural “background” rate of about one to five species per year. Scientists estimate we’re now losing species at 1,000 to 10,000 times the background rate. And this mass extinction has been caused by humans.
How have humans impacted the biodiversity and natural ecosystems of Australia?
Rise of Homo sapiens was accompanied by decline of nature and biodiversity.
More habitat conversion for farming, habitation etc.
More food requirements (more harvesting, hunting, farming)
More pollution
More pressure on natural resources
What are the key threats currently experienced by Australia’s biodiversity?
Increasing populations and ongoing and seemingly unstoppable climate change are adding to the pressures on biodiversity
What are the likely impacts of anthropogenic climate change on biodiversity?
anthropogenic climate change is the green house gas emissions by human activity contributing to global warming. this will negatively impact on biodiversity as air pollution increases. acidifying oceans etc.
