Natural Resources and Sustainability

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to natural resources, sustainability, and ecosystem services.

Natural resources

Raw materials and energy sources used and consumed by societies.

Renewable resources

Natural resources that can be replenished at a rate equal to or faster than their consumption.

Non-renewable resources

Natural resources that are finite and cannot be replaced quickly; examples include fossil fuels and minerals.

Natural capital

The stock of natural resources available on Earth, including resources, environmental assets, and ecosystem services.

Anthropocentric view

A human-centered perspective that prioritizes human needs and exploitation of natural resources.

Ecosystem services

The benefits provided by ecosystems, including food production, water filtration, and climate regulation.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Sustainability

The ability to maintain ecological balance by using resources responsibly and ensuring their availability for the future.

Ecocentric perspective

A view that values nature for its own sake, stressing the importance of preservation over exploitation.

Technocentric view

The belief that technology and innovation can solve resource scarcity and environmental issues.

Natural income

The yield obtained from natural resources, including both goods and ecosystem services.

Carbon sequestration

The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide to mitigate climate change.

Microplastics

Small plastic particles that pose significant environmental threats and can enter food chains.

Food security

Access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to maintain a healthy life.

Cultural services

Ecosystem services that provide recreational and spiritual benefits to people.

Regulating services

Ecosystem services that help regulate environmental conditions, like climate stability and flood control.

Supporting services

Ecosystem services that are essential for production of all other ecosystem services, such as nutrient cycling.

Direct use values

The economic value derived from the direct use of an ecosystem's goods and services.