Why Are Some Actions Not Sustainable? Flashcards
Resource
A substance in the environment that is useful to people, economically and technologically feasible to access, and socially acceptable to use
Sustainability
The use of Earth’s resources in ways that ensure their availability in the future
Renewable Resource
Produced in nature more rapidly than it is consumed by humans
Non renewable Resource
Produced in nature more slowly than it is consumed by humans
Conservation
The sustainable use and management of Earth’s natural resources to meet human needs, such as food, medicine, and recreation
Preservation
The maintenance of resources in their present condition, with as little human impact as possible
Biotic Systen
System composed of living organisms
Abiotic System
System comprised of non-living or inorganic matter
Atmosphere
A thin layer of gases surrounding Earth
Hydrosphere
All of the water on and near Earth’s surface
Lithosphere
Earth’s crust and a portion of upper mantle directly below the crust
Biosphere
All living organisms on earth, including plants and animals, as well as a micro organisms
Climate
The long-term average weather conditions at a particular location
Ecosystem
A group of living organisms and the abiotic spheres with which they interact
Ecology
The scientific study of ecosystems
