Global Environmental Issues

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary terms and definitions related to global environmental issues discussed in the lecture.

Global Warming

The unusually rapid increase in earth's average temperature over the past century due to greenhouse gases released by human activities.

Greenhouse Effect

The process by which greenhouse gases trap heat from the sun in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to an increase in temperature.

Biodiversity Loss

The decline in the diversity of life, including the extinction of species and the reduction of genetic variation within species.

Desertification

The degradation of land in arid and semi-arid areas resulting from various factors including climate change and human activities.

Ozone Layer Depletion

The thinning of the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere caused by chlorine and bromine atoms breaking down ozone molecules.

Acid Rain

Precipitation with acidic components caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, resulting in environmental harm.

Air Pollution

The contamination of the air by harmful substances, including gases, dust, and smoke, adversely affecting health and the environment.

Water Pollution

The contamination of water bodies caused by pollutants, leading to harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health.

Overpopulation

A situation where the number of people exceeds the environmental carrying capacity, leading to resource depletion and environmental stress.

Waste Disposal

The collection, processing, and recycling or deposition of waste material from human society, aiming to reduce its harm on the environment.

Environmental Degradation

The deterioration of the environment through the depletion of resources, loss of biodiversity, and the destruction of ecosystems.

Pollution Control

Techniques and regulations employed to reduce or eliminate the emission of pollutants that can harm the environment or human health.

Endangered Species

Species that are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, pollution, and other human-related activities.

Acidification

The decrease in pH levels of oceans due to increased carbon dioxide absorption, leading to harmful impacts on marine life.

Sustainable Practices

Methods of using resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)

Chemical compounds, such as CFCs, that release chlorine or bromine upon exposure to UV radiation, leading to ozone layer depletion.