Industrial aspects and consequences

Pollution

the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment, causing adverse effects on ecosystems and human health.

Runoff

water that flows over land and into bodies of water, often carrying pollutants and nutrients that can harm aquatic ecosystems.

Land transformation

the alteration of natural landscapes through activities such as urban development, agriculture, and deforestation, leading to habitat loss and environmental changes.

Deforestation

the clearing or removal of forests or trees, often to make way for agriculture or urbanization, resulting in loss of biodiversity and disruption of local ecosystems.

Deadzone

an area in a body of water where oxygen levels are so low that most marine life cannot survive, often resulting from nutrient pollution and runoff.

Shifting cultivation

a traditional agricultural practice where farmers alternately cultivate a field for a few years and then leave it fallow to restore soil fertility, often seen in tropical regions.

Old growth forests

forests that have developed over long periods without significant disturbance, characterized by large, old trees and rich biodiversity.

water control land reclemation

the process of converting disturbed or degraded land into productive agricultural land by managing water resources and improving soil conditions.

Irrigation

the artificial application of water to soil to assist in growing crops, which enhances agricultural productivity and can help manage water scarcity.

Water mining

the extraction of water from groundwater sources to support agriculture or industrial processes, often leading to depletion of aquifers and ecological impacts.

Aquifers

underground layers of water-bearing rock that store and transmit groundwater.

Biofuel

A renewable energy source made from organic materials, such as plant and animal waste, used as an alternative to fossil fuels.

Biodiesel

A type of biofuel made from vegetable oils or animal fats, used as a renewable alternative to diesel fuel.

Sustainable agriculture

farming practices that meet current food needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity.

Supply chain

The network through which products and services travel from the supplier to the consumer, including all processes involved in the production, distribution, and consumption.

Specialization

The practice of focusing on a specific area of production or service to increase efficiency and productivity, often leading to greater output and quality.

Cash crops

crops produced primarily for sale rather than for personal consumption, typically grown in large quantities for profit.

Industrial scale operations

Large-scale production processes designed for efficiency and profitability, often involving advanced technologies and automation to maximize output.

Global agriculture systems

The interconnected agricultural practices and production methods across different regions that address global food supply, trade, and sustainability challenges.

Local agriculture systems

Agricultural practices and production methods that are specifically tailored to local conditions, communities, and markets, often emphasizing sustainability and local food security.