Material cycles and the Circular Economy | AQA A-Level Environmental Science Revision | Primrose Kitten

Linear economy

An economy model that extracts materials from the Earth, uses them to manufacture disposable products which are used before being taken to landfill.

Circular economy

An economy model that involves extracting raw materials, using them to manufacture recyclable products which are used and then recycled into something new which extends its useful life.

Detritivores

Organisms such as bacteria, fungi, worms, etc that break down dead organic matter to release small sub-units called monomers into the environment.

Non-toxic waste

Waste products that are safe to be decomposed and reused by other organisms, unlike toxic waste produced by human activities.

Renewable energy

Energy derived from replenishable resources like sunlight, wind, and water, which are not depleted when used.

Biogeochemical cycles

Cycles in nature where waste products of one process become raw material for another, ensuring efficient resource use and sustainability.

Toxic waste

Waste products that are harmful to the environment and living organisms, such as nuclear waste or heavy metals from batteries.

Ecosystem conservation

Practices that aim to protect natural ecosystems by minimizing pollution, preventing invasive species, and promoting sustainable land-use.

Fossil fuels

Non-renewable resources like coal, oil, and natural gas that are extracted from the Earth and contribute to resource depletion.

Alloy mixes

Combinations of metals that can be challenging and energy-intensive to separate for recycling due to their properties.

Monomers

Small sub-units released by detritivores during the breakdown of dead organic matter, which can be used by other organisms.

Polymers

Long organic chains like carbohydrates and proteins formed by living organisms using monomers released during decomposition.

Invasive species

Non-native organisms that disrupt natural ecosystems and can cause harm to native species and habitats.

Maximum sustainable yield

The highest rate at which a natural resource can be used without depleting its stock, ensuring long-term resource availability.

Landfill sites

Designated areas where waste is disposed of by burying it, contributing to environmental pollution and resource wastage.

Biodiversity

Variety of life forms in an ecosystem

Optimum Production Rate

Maintaining production at a level where there is no excess or waste

Low-Grade Ores

Ores with low purity, requiring specialized extraction techniques

Biocapacity

Measure of an area's biological productivity and waste absorption

Natural Diversity

Presence of various species in an ecosystem, enhancing resilience

Grey Water

Waste water from baths, sinks, etc., suitable for reuse

Bioleaching

Extraction technique using microorganisms to recover minerals from low-grade ores

Phytomining

Process of extracting minerals from soil using plants

Biological Control Agents

Organisms used to control pests in an eco-friendly manner

Biological Corridors

Connective pathways between habitats to facilitate species movement

Organic Fertilizers

Natural fertilizers like manure, promoting sustainable crop growth

Low-Tillage Farming

Agricultural practice minimizing soil disturbance for enhanced soil health

Spoil Heaps

Accumulation of low-grade ore waste, targeted for resource extraction

Toxic Pollutants

Harmful substances released into the environment, requiring prevention measures

Urban Landscaping

Designing urban areas to support natural ecosystems and wildlife habitats

Water Meters

Devices measuring water usage to promote conservation

Waste Reduction

Minimizing waste generation through efficient resource use

Resource Depletion

Exhaustion of natural resources due to overuse

Pollution Management

Efforts to control and prevent harmful pollutants in the environment