Ecological Footprint and Cultural Landscapes

These flashcards cover key concepts from Unit 1 and related topics about ecological footprints and cultural landscapes for exam preparation.

What is the ecological footprint (huella ecológica)?

It is a tool used to measure the environmental impact of a region, country, city, or individual.

What does the ecological footprint measure?

It calculates the amount of biologically productive space needed to produce resources and absorb waste.

What happens in a region with ecological deficit?

It imports resources to satisfy demand, depleting its ecological assets and increasing carbon emissions.

What indicates that a region has biological capacity (biocapacidad)?

When the resources of a biosphere exceed its ecological footprint.

How many indicators are used to analyze the ecological footprint?

Six indicators based on different productive sectors, goods, and services.

What does ecological deficit refer to?

It occurs when consumption and waste production exceed the land's capacity to generate or absorb them.

What defines a reserve of biocapacity?

It exists when a population's ecological resources are greater than what is consumed.

What does the Carbon indicator measure?

It measures carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels and cement production.

What is measured by the Cultivated Land indicator?

It measures the demand for land to obtain food, fibers, and other agricultural products.

What does the Fishing Zones indicator assess?

It measures the demand for marine ecosystems needed for resource replenishment and aquaculture.

What does the Forestry indicator measure?

It assesses the demand for forests to provide wood for fuel, products, and paper pulp.

What is the focus of the Pasture Land indicator?

It measures the demand for grazing land to raise animals for meat, milk, and other products.

What does the Infrastructure indicator evaluate?

It measures the demand on biologically productive areas covered by infrastructure.

Discuss the connection between cultural landscapes and local development.

Cultural landscapes play a significant role in social and cultural community life.

What challenges does the historic center of San Salvador face?

It faces challenges related to heritage protection and environmental impact.

How can economic development, heritage conservation, and environmental impact be balanced?

By involving local communities, governments, and heritage experts.

What is the role of historic centers in cities?

They serve as centers of power, local administration, and cultural life.

What notable features are present in the historic center of San Salvador?

It includes the Metropolitan Cathedral and various cultural institutions.

What is essential for developing historic centers as cultural landscapes?

The involvement of local communities and experts to achieve sustainability.

What is the significance of the historic center of San Salvador?

It represents the evolution of society and the nation.

How does the ecological footprint relate to population metrics?

It takes into account the total population of an area over a certain period.

What is the consequence of a region importing resources for sustainability?

It liquidates its ecological assets, leading to increased carbon emissions.

Why is understanding the ecological footprint important?

It allows for the assessment of environmental impacts and resource management.

What does a higher ecological footprint indicate about a region?

It suggests greater resource consumption and potential ecological strain.

Which sector does the Land use indicator focus on specifically?

It focuses on land use for agricultural and food production purposes.

Why is the infrastructure indicator significant in ecological studies?

It highlights the area needed for urban development and its environmental impact.

What types of goods are included in the analysis of ecological footprint?

Resources consumed such as food, wood, and fibrous materials.

In what ways can urban centers contribute to cultural identity?

They can reflect historical significance and local traditions.

What institution serves as an architectural centerpiece in San Salvador's historic center?

The Metropolitan Cathedral.

How can urban communities ensure sustainable development?

By balancing the needs of present inhabitants with heritage conservation.

What role do local governments play in heritage conservation?

They are involved in the management and preservation of cultural heritage.

What is the impact of consumption patterns on ecological footprints?

They directly influence the resulting ecological strain on the environment.

How does the ecological footprint serve governmental policies?

It provides data for formulating environmental and sustainability policies.

Why is local community involvement crucial in cultural landscape development?

It ensures that local needs and perspectives are integrated into planning.

What are the main components contributing to ecological footprints?

Resource consumption and waste production associated with human activities.

How can technology assist in managing ecological footprints?

By providing tools for measurement and analysis of environmental impact.

Discuss the importance of cultural sites in urban settings.

They foster community engagement and cultural heritage awareness.

How does urban infrastructure relate to ecological footprints?

Infrastructure development can expand land use and resource demand.

What educational institutions can utilize the ecological footprint concept?

Schools and universities for environmental education and advocacy.

What is the relationship between economic growth and ecological footprint?

Growth often leads to increased consumption and potential ecological strain.

What role do NGOs play in ecological footprint measurement?

They help in advocacy, measurement, and promoting sustainable practices.

How do historical centers embody a nation’s identity?

They showcase historical events and cultural narratives vital to collective memory.

What are the benefits of analyzing ecological indicators?

They provide insights for improving sustainable practices and resource management.

How can preservation efforts coexist with urban development?

By implementing strategies that respect both cultural heritage and modern needs.

In what context are ecological footprints measured?

At regional, national, or individual levels with specific time frames.

What fundamental question does the ecological footprint aim to address?

It seeks to understand human impact on the planet and resource sustainability.

What is the goal of understanding cultural landscapes in relation to development?

To achieve a balance between heritage and contemporary community needs.

Why is it essential to involve experts in heritage preservation?

They provide specialized knowledge and skills for effective management.