Introduction to Environmental Ethics

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to environmental ethics and anthropogenic impact, aimed at aiding students in understanding the material for their exam.

Anthropogenic Environmental Destruction

Human-induced damage to the environment, including acts that degrade natural resources.

Biosphere

The part of Earth and its atmosphere capable of supporting life, encompassing land, water, and air.

Holocene Extinction

The ongoing extinction event of species during the current Holocene epoch, characterized by high rates of species extinction.

Industrial Revolution

A major period of change marked by the shift from manual labor to machine-based manufacturing, beginning in the 18th century.

Population Growth

An increase in the number of individuals in a population, exemplified by the world population reaching 7 billion in 2011.

Non-Renewable Energy

Energy sources, such as coal, that cannot be replenished within a human timeframe, leading to depletion.

Sustainability

Practices that meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Environmental Degradation

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

Climate Change

Long-term changes in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, often attributed to human activity.

Consumerism

The preoccupation of society with the acquisition of goods, which often leads to overconsumption and waste.