Chapter 2 : Natural Capital and Pollution

These flashcards provide key concepts, definitions, and examples related to natural capital and pollution as discussed in the lecture.

What are the three components of natural capital?

Natural Resource Capital, Ecosystems (Environmental Capital), and Pollution Control.

What does Natural Resource Capital include?

Stocks of renewable and non-renewable resources such as minerals, energy, forests, and fish.

How does using Natural Capital impact future resources?

Using Natural Capital depletes stocks available for the future (e.g., overfishing reduces future fish stocks).

What are the three ways to reduce residuals in the economy?

1. Reduce the quantity of goods and services produced 2. Reduce residuals from production 3. Increase recycling.

What is an example of pollution prevention in production?

Shifting to environmentally friendly goods, like organic produce or green products.

What are accumulative pollutants?

Pollutants that stay in the environment for a long time and are harder to manage.

What defines local pollutants?

Pollutants that affect a specific small area and are easier to identify and control.

What is the difference between point source and non-point source pollutants?

Point source pollutants come from specific sources, while non-point source pollutants have diffuse origins that are hard to identify.

What are continuous pollutants?

Pollutants produced steadily over time, making them easier to measure and control.

How does recycling reduce the need for natural resources?

Recycling reuses materials that would otherwise be waste, requiring fewer raw natural resources for production.