Environmental Developments and Biocapacity

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to environmental developments, biocapacity, carbon emissions, and sustainability, aiding in comprehension of critical topics discussed in the lecture.

Biocapacity

The capacity of an area or ecosystem to generate an ongoing supply of resources and to absorb wastes, particularly carbon emissions.

Carbon Sequestration

The process by which CO2 is removed from the atmosphere and stored in the ocean, soil, or vegetation.

Fossil Fuel Emissions

Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.

Oceans Sink

Natural systems that absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change.

Planetary Boundaries

Limits within which humanity can safely operate to avoid catastrophic environmental changes.

Ocean Acidification

The reduction in pH levels of ocean water caused by increased CO2 absorption, threatening marine ecosystems.

Overshoot

A situation in which humanity's consumption exceeds the planet's capacity to regenerate resources.

Carbon Offsets

A reduction in emissions of CO2 or greenhouse gases made in order to compensate for emissions produced elsewhere.

Carbon Trading

The buying and selling of permits for emissions, allowing companies to offset their carbon footprint.

Political Ecology

A field of study that examines relationships between political, economic, social factors, and environmental issues.