environmental management

What formula is used to calculate population density?

Population density is calculated by dividing the number of individuals by the area they occupy.

What is the dependency ratio and how is it calculated?

The dependency ratio is (young + old) / working-age population × 100, indicating economic burden.

What are the implications of ageing populations on economies?

Ageing populations can lead to lower tax revenues and increased healthcare costs, straining public resources.

How do invasive species affect native biodiversity?

Invasive species can compete with native species, alter habitats, and introduce diseases.

What is gross primary productivity (GPP)?

GPP is the total amount of energy produced by plants in an ecosystem through photosynthesis.

What are some strategies for managing food security?

Strategies include improving agricultural techniques and reducing food waste.

What is the significance of integrated water resource management (IWRM)?

IWRM is a holistic approach to managing water resources sustainably, considering both supply and demand.

What are the main causes of water insecurity?

Causes include climate change, population growth, and pollution.

What was the goal of international agreements like the Kyoto Protocol?

To unify global efforts against climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

What does acid deposition refer to?

The deposition of acidic pollutants from the atmosphere, occurring as wet or dry deposition.

How can urban planning help manage air pollution?

By restricting vehicle use in densely populated areas to improve air quality.

What are some impacts of climate change on agriculture?

Reduced crop yields and increased pest outbreaks, threatening food security.

What role do native species play in ecology?

Native species contribute to the functioning and stability of their ecosystems.

What is the role of the IUCN Red List?

It provides a comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.

What is one challenge of captive breeding programs?

Ensuring genetic diversity and adapting animals to their natural habitats post-release.

How does ozone depletion affect human health?

Increased UV radiation leads to health issues like skin cancer and cataracts.

What are photochemical smog and its effects?

A mixture of air pollutants formed by reactions in sunlight, leading to respiratory issues and reduced crop yields.

What is rewilding in the context of habitat conservation?

Restoring ecosystems by reintroducing native species and allowing natural processes to occur.

What economic impacts can result from water insecurity?

Increased costs for water treatment and healthcare, straining national budgets.

What is the primary goal of the EDGE programme?

To conserve species that are evolutionarily distinct and globally endangered.

What strategies can improve energy security?

Increasing energy efficiency and investing in renewable resources.

What are the major terrestrial biomes mentioned in the notes?

Deserts, forests, grasslands, and tundras.

What is the impact of climate change on polar regions?

Causes ice melt, altering habitats and affecting native species.

What are the potential benefits of biodiversity?

Maintaining ecosystem services, discovering new medicines, and contributing to human well-being.

How do feedback mechanisms complicate climate change predictions?

They affect the relationship between cause and effect, often causing delays in impact recognition.