environment and sustainability - editorial digital tecnológico de
TRANSCRIPT
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This eBook is divided into five units: Introduction to Ecology, Components of the Environment, Population, Development, and Sustainable De-
velopment. The following provides a general overview of the organization of Environment and Sustainability.
Chapter 1: Introduction to Ecology
The three topics discussed in Chapter 1 provide basic background knowledge. It begins with the in- troduction to Ecology and its relationships to other sciences, as well as the importance of its study.
Chapter 2: Components of the Environment
This chapter explores the components of the en- vironment, which are the biological components (bio- tic) and the physical components (abiotic). It des- cribes the different types of biomes and the interactions of the organisms with their environment, as well as with other organisms. Chapter 2 also discusses how energy flows through ecosystems and matter moves in numerous cycles from one part of an ecosystem to another, from one organism to another, and from living organisms to the nonliving components of the environment and back again.
eBook introduction
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It addresses the science of natural resources such as soil, water, wildlife and fossil fuels; their uses and availability and the consequences that arise when they are overexploited. Issues con- cerning the value of the natural services these resources render to mankind that are overlooked with their economic values are also addressed.
Chapter 3: Population
Chapter 3 presents the mechanisms of popula- tion to maintain its equilibrium and the pressures of population growth on the natural systems with
a focus on demographic transition. It has a brief introduction on how birth rates and death rates influence population size.
Chapter 4: Development
Chapter 4 presents how human population growth and development cause global environmen- tal issues. It touches some environmental and so- cial impacts brought about by growing populations.
Chapter 5: Sustainable Development
The last chapter addresses the relationships that exist between economics, public policy and the environment. It begins with a short introduction of Agenda 21, and then discusses the contributions of civil groups and movements focusing especially on present environmental concerns. It closes with healthy lifestyles, proper skills and practices to en- joy a sustainable future.
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M A
PA G
lossary Resources
Review A
ctivity C
Introduction to Ecology
The three topics discussed in Chapter 1 provide basic background knowledge. It begins with the introduc- tion to Ecology and its relationships to other scien-
ces, as well as the importance of its study.
The Earth is the third planet from the Sun and the fifth lar- gest. It is composed of three major regions or layers: the crust, the mantle and the core. The outer crust is divided into regions known as the tectonic plates. The Earth is the only planet in the Solar System with tectonic plates. Ac- cording to Cain (2008), scientists believed that the molten
core, which is composed mainly of iron, creates a mag- netic field. This magnetic field extends thousands of kilo- meters from the surface of the Earth to the atmosphere. The magnetic field covers the Earth and protects it from the direct hit of the particles from the Sun’s solar wind. Solar wind is a flow of charged particles ejected from the sun. These charged particles can be trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with air particles producing glow known as auroras.
The Earth’s atmosphere is composed of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% other substances which envelops the planet. This atmosphere shields us mostly from the sun’s harmful radiation.
The Earth is the only planet where life has actually been discovered. It is the only planet found that could support life. The earth provides all the things we need to survive. It is also this reason why most of our natural resources are diminishing because of our negligence and perhaps our ignorance. It is our responsibility to take care of the Earth. It is our home.
The buzzword in the world today is Ecology. Governments show their concern and interest for environmental cleaning, caring for populations of animals and plants threatened with extinction, the decontamination of certain areas in order to take necessary measures to maintain a healthy balance between communities and their environment.
Glossary
Ecology The scientific study of relationships between organisms and their envi- ronment. It is concerned with the dis- tribution, behavior and life histories of individual species. It studies the structure and function of natural sys- tems based on population, communi- ties and ecosystems.
Aurora A natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of streamers of reddish or greenish light in the sky, usually near the northern or southern magnetic pole.
Natural resources Goods and services supplied by the environment.
Population A group of individuals of the same species occupying a given area.
Extinction The permanent elimination of spe- cies; can be a normal process of the natural world or as environmental conditions change.
Environment The conditions or circumstances that surround an organism or group of organisms including the complex social or cultural conditions that affect an individual or community.
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2
the word economy and in the extension of his argument introduces the idea of the environment that includes or- ganic (biotic) –living factors– and all inorganic (abiotic) – nonliving– factors on which living things depend for their existence. These factors are discussed in detail in the next chapter.
If we looked at nature around us, we could observe that the environment of
any living being is incredibly com- plex. Organisms are open sys-
tems that continuously interact with their environment. There are sets of physical factors that determine the characteristics of the environment such as temperature, salinity, humidity or the amount of sunlight. In addition, any living being is in contact with many other or-
ganisms, either of their own species or other species, which can be their food; others can be their para- sites or predators. Ecology studies precisely these aspects of biology, the relationships of living things with each other and their environment. Ecology seeks to understand how these interactions determine the morphological and physio- logical adaptations, as well as the abundance, distribution and diversity of organisms in nature.
“Father of Modern Ecology”and is credited with pioneering the concept of ecosystem. In his work Ecology: The link between the Natural and Social Sciences, he referred to Ecology as the “study of the structure and function of the environment in which humanity is a part of it” (Diaz, 2011, p. 6). According to Diaz (2011), Dr. Odum mentioned in his book that the word ecology comes from the same root as
Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.1 What is Ecology? Glossary
1.1 What is Ecology?
The word ecology comes from the Greek words oikos, “house”, and logos, “study”. The “house” being the “environment” of the organisms, that is, ecology is
the study of living organisms in the environment they inha- bit and in which they perform all their vital functions.
Ecosystem A specific biological community and its physical environment interacting between them.
Biotic factors Pertaining to life; environmental fac- tors created by living things.
Abiotic factors Elements of the physical environment, the nonliving part of the environment that affects a particular organism.
Biology A science that studies life.
It was Ernst Heinrich Haeckel, a German zoo- logist, who first in- troduced the word “ecology” in 1866 to describe the “ e c o n o m i e s ” of living forms (Sarkar, 2009). Later, Dr. Eugene Odum, who with his text- book entitled Fundamen- tals of Ecology, published in 1953, has been dubbed the
Ecology is the study of the interactions
between living organisms and their interac- tion with the environment.
Getty Images/iStockphoto.com/photos.com
3 Glossary
Biosphere The zone of air, land, and water at the surface of the Earth that is occupied by organisms.
Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.1 What is Ecology?
Ecology studies the sum of all the Earth’s ecosystems: the biosphere. It includes the entire portion of the Earth inhabited by life. Because of its great scope, Ecology can be divided into different areas of study:
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4 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.2 Ecology and the Other Sciences Glossary
Genetics The science of heredity.
Evolution Biology, genetic change in a species over time.
Biology A science that studies life.
Heredity The transmission of genetic informa- tion from parent to offspring.
1.2. Ecology and the Other Sciences
During the 1960s, Ecology was regarded in acade- mic circles as a branch of biology and is often in- cluded in a curriculum package for advanced bio-
logy together with Genetics, developmental Biology and Evolution. In this context, according to Diaz (2011, p.9), Ecology is counted as “Environmental Biology”. The conti- nued increase in human population and the accompanying destruction of the environment has drawn public attention to the world of Ecology; it is then that Ecology was consi- dered a major science.
Even so, Ecology is intimately linked to other biological disciplines. In particular, it is closely related to Physiology, which studies the functioning of organs and systems of li- ving organisms. Ecology studies the effect of the environmental conditions in relation with the proper functioning of the body organs or systems of an organism. For example, Phy- siology investigates how the respiratory sys- tem functions in a living thing, while Ecology studies how the presence of high concentra- tion of pollutants in the environment affects the proper functioning of the respiratory sys- tem of a living being.
In addition to Physiology, Ecology also has much to do with Genetics and Evolutionary Biology. Genetics is a branch of biology that studies traits and heredity. Ecological interactions are, in themselves, hustles of natural selection that drive the evolution of species. Evolution is possible be- cause of natural selection. So, what happens to organisms in their environment day by day is what gives rise to their evolution in the long term. In this case, genetics is funda- mental to understanding how the characteristics of these organisms will be the turning point of their success or failure to pass their traits from one generation to another.
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5 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.2 Ecology and the Other Sciences Glossary
Chemistry A science that studies matter.
Aside from Biology, Ecology also relies greatly on disciplines outside Biology. For example, to explain how living things are dis- tributed throughout the world, one must un- derstand how organisms function and how they are grouped, and also analyze the environ- mental conditions on which these organisms are located. In this case, Geography, Geology and Meteorology are essential. Other sciences such as Chemistry and Physics help understand the important ecological processes that occur in the environment like the nutrient cycles and the exchange of matter and energy between organisms and their environment.
Because humans are part of the bio- tic factors in the environment, we are also included in the study of Ecology. All our activities and interactions in eco- nomy and politics have ecological im- portance. Social sciences such as Economy and Sociology are also applied to use in Ecology. At the same time, human being is one of the elements of nature that can create great change in the structure and function of the environment due to his social involvement. This is the reason why Ecology is said to be an interdisciplinary and integrated science due
to its association to other sciences, not only to life sciences but also to social sciences, in the search for answers to fundamental is- sues.
The environmental crisis comes in many faces and in many aspects, and not all are related to Ecology. For example, to address the problem of environmental pollution, the science of Chemistry and Meteorology are employed. Physics and Engineering can provide alternative sources of ener- gy that is becoming scarce. To unders- tand the phenomenon of global climate change we must rely on Geography and Thermodynamics. Thus, the en- vironmental crisis is not an exclusive concern of Ecology. It is a problem that concerns all humanity.
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6 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.3. Why Study Ecology? Glossary
Ecosystem A specific biological community and its physical environment interacting between them matter and energy.
Landscape A large land area composed of inte- racting ecosystems.
Biodiversity The genetic, species, and ecological diversity of the organisms in a given area.
Click on an image below to know some good reasons to study Ecology. 1.3. Why Study Ecology?
Ecosystems have been functio- ning for billions of years without human tending. The
supply for natural resources was sufficient for the demands of a few populations. But as populations grow, there is also an increase in the need for resources. Natural resour- ces diminish as population sizes in- crease. Development and progress take over landscapes, and natural resources become scarce, unable to supply growing populations. Natural habitats of animals and plants are cut down. Ecosystems lose biodi- versity. New buildings and factories arise and sources of groundwater are polluted.
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7 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.3. Why Study Ecology?
Many environmental problems now face us. The health effects of toxic wastes, pollution and other environmental hazards of modern society have become a greater threat than infectious diseases. The destruction of tropical forests, wetlands, and other landscapes with biological importance is causing an alarming loss of biodiversity that could severely limit our options for the future. These and other serious problems explain the importance of environmental science and how environmental education helps us understand the impact each one has in the environment. It is our responsibility to protect and restore our environment. Being aware of the problems we face is the principal step toward finding their solutions. Unluckily, if we do not take actions about these problems now, we may not have another chance to do so.
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1. Introduction to Ecology Conclusion
Ecology is the science that studies the relationships between organisms and their interactions with their environment. It is a multidisciplinary science that encompasses many sciences, such as Physics, Chemistry, Microbiology, Geo-
logy, Entomology, Botany, Zoology, and others. Recently, this science has received much publicity, making its presence known in proper environmental attempts such as recycling, and awareness of hazardous contamination and its effects.
Human population is increasing and we are putting a tremendous strain on Earth, our home. It faces problems of overuse of natural resources, loss of biodiversity and degradation of habitat, and a rapid climate change. It is impossible to solve these problems without knowledge of ecology and environmental science.
It is the duty of every human being to secure the prosperity on Earth, minimize the detrimental effects of our actions to the environment and manage our natural resources to support future generations.
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N Ñ O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Chapter 1. Glossary
A Abiotic factors Elements of the physical environment, the nonli- ving part of the environment that affects a particu- lar organism.
Aurora A natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of streamers of reddish or greenish light in the sky, usually near the northern or southern magnetic pole.
B Biodiversity The genetic, species, and ecological diversity of the organisms in a given area.
Biology A science that studies life.
Biosphere The zone of air, land, and water at the surface of the Earth that is occupied by organisms.
Biotic factors Pertaining to life; environmental factors created by living things.
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C Chemistry A science that studies matter.
Community A group of populations of different species living in the same area and interacting with one another. It is the living portion of an ecosystem.
E Ecology The scientific study of relationships between organisms and their environment. It is concerned with the distribution, behavior and life histories of individual species. It studies the structure and function of natural systems based on population, communities and ecosystems.
Ecosystem A specific biological community and its physical environment interacting between them.
Environment The conditions or circumstances that surround an organism or group of organisms including the complex social or cultural conditions that affect an individual or community.
Evolution Biology, genetic change in a species over time.
Extinction The permanent elimination of species; can be a normal process of the natural world or as environmental conditions change.
G Genetics The science of heredity.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N Ñ O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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Chapter 1. Glossary
H Heredity The transmission of genetic information from parent to offspring.
L Landscape A large land area composed of interacting ecosystems.
N Natural resources Goods and services supplied by the environment.
P Population A group of individuals of the same species occupying a given area.
S Solar wind The continuous flow of charged particles from the sun that permeates the solar system.
Sustainable development An increase in well-being or quality of life that can be maintained for a long period of time without degrading the environment or compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N Ñ O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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Chapter 1. Resources » A collection of videos about planet Earth. Planet 100 Videos: Planet
Green Videos, Focus Earth: Planet Green. PlanetGreen.com http://planetgreen.discovery.com/videos/the-planet-100/
» An exciting way to see places on Earth via the Google Earth Blog. Google Earth Blog http://www.gearthblog.com/
» Animation with a few thoughts about ecology. Ecology Is… Animation by Lukasz Szozda http://youtu.be/Ac1UV30jt_U
» A video clip about how scientists lived in Biosphere 2. Biosphere 2 http://youtu.be/l4DX994NonE
» Find out more about the importance of the study of ecology. Importancy of Biodiversity http://curiosity.discovery.com/question/importance-of-studying-ecology
» The best place to know more about what is happening on Earth through National Geographic daily News. National Geographic Daily News http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/
» The New York Times. The Opinion Pages. Blogs about the Earth. Revkin, A.C. Dot Earth http://dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com/
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Introduction to Ecology ..............................................................................1 1.1 What is Ecology? ........................................................................2 1.2. Ecology and the Other Sciences .................................................4 1.3. Why Study Ecology? ...................................................................6
2.1 Biotic Components ....................................................................16 2.1.1 Biomes .............................................................................18
2.2.1 Natural Resources ...........................................................38 2.2.1.1 Biodiversity as Natural Resource...........................39 2.2.1.2 Water: An Essential Resource ...............................41 2.2.1.3 Soil and Soil Ecosystem ........................................43 2.2.1.4 Energy from Fossil Fuels .......................................43
2.2.2 Physical Factors that Affect the Environment ..................44
2.2.2.1 Humidity .................................................................44 2.2.2.2 Temperature ...........................................................45 2.2.2.3 Amount of Light from the Sun ................................45 2.2.2.4 Soil .........................................................................46 2.2.2.5 Salinity ...................................................................47 2.2.2.6 pH ..........................................................................47
3.3.1 Dynamics of Population Growth.......................................68 Review Activity .......................................................................................69 Chapter 3. Integrating Exercise ...............................................................70 Chapter 3. Conclusion .............................................................................71 Chapter 3. Glossary ................................................................................72 Chapter 3. Resources .............................................................................73
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4.1.2 Pathways of Risk .............................................................79 4.1.2.1 Risk of Being Poor ................................................. 79 4.1.2.2 Lifestyles ................................................................79 4.1.2.3 Geographical Locations ......................................... 79
4.2.1 Crossroads in Biodiversity ............................................... 81 4.2.1.1 Protection and Conservation of Endangered Spe- cies ....................................................................................83
4.2.2 Deforestation....................................................................83 4.2.3 Global Warming ...............................................................84 4.2.4 Ozone Layer Depletion ....................................................84
5.1 What is sustainable development? ............................................ 94 5.1.1 Agenda 21 ........................................................................95
5.2 Resources and the wealth of nations ......................................... 96 5.3 Citizen Involvement ...................................................................97
5.4 Lifestyles for Sustainable Future ................................................ 98 Chapter 5. Integrating Exercise ...............................................................99 Chapter 5. Conclusion ...........................................................................100 Chapter 5. Glossary ..............................................................................101 Chapter 5. Resources ...........................................................................102
131 p. cm.
1. Sustainable development
LC: HC79.E5 Dewey: 333.7
eBook edited, designed, published and distributed by the Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without permission in writing from the Instituto Tecnólogico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey.
Copyright © Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Mexico. 2011. Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 Sur Col. Tecnologico C.P. 64849 | Monterrey, Nuevo Leon | Mexico.
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Introduction to Ecology
1.3. Why Study Ecology?
Chapter 1. Integrating Excercise
2. Components of the Environment
2.1 Biotic Components
2.1.2.1 Trophic Levels
2.1.2.2 Biogeochemical Cycles
2.2 Abiotic Components
2.2.1 Natural Resources
2.2.2 Physical Factors that Affect the Environment
2.2.2.1 Humidity
2.2.2.2 Temperature
2.2.2.4 Soil
2.2.2.5 Salinity
2.2.2.6 pH
Review Activity
3.2.1 Factors that Influence Population Size
3.3 Human Population
Review Activity
4.1.1 Environmental Hazards
4.1.1.1 Cultural Hazards
4.1.1.2 Biological Hazards
4.1.1.3 Chemical Hazards
4.1.1.4 Physical Hazards
4.1.2.2 Lifestyles
4.2 Global Environmental Issues
4.2.1 Crossroads in Biodiversity
4.2.2 Deforestation
5.1.1 Agenda 21
5.3 Citizen Involvement
Chapter 5. Integrating Exercise
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This eBook is divided into five units: Introduction to Ecology, Components of the Environment, Population, Development, and Sustainable De-
velopment. The following provides a general overview of the organization of Environment and Sustainability.
Chapter 1: Introduction to Ecology
The three topics discussed in Chapter 1 provide basic background knowledge. It begins with the in- troduction to Ecology and its relationships to other sciences, as well as the importance of its study.
Chapter 2: Components of the Environment
This chapter explores the components of the en- vironment, which are the biological components (bio- tic) and the physical components (abiotic). It des- cribes the different types of biomes and the interactions of the organisms with their environment, as well as with other organisms. Chapter 2 also discusses how energy flows through ecosystems and matter moves in numerous cycles from one part of an ecosystem to another, from one organism to another, and from living organisms to the nonliving components of the environment and back again.
eBook introduction
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®
It addresses the science of natural resources such as soil, water, wildlife and fossil fuels; their uses and availability and the consequences that arise when they are overexploited. Issues con- cerning the value of the natural services these resources render to mankind that are overlooked with their economic values are also addressed.
Chapter 3: Population
Chapter 3 presents the mechanisms of popula- tion to maintain its equilibrium and the pressures of population growth on the natural systems with
a focus on demographic transition. It has a brief introduction on how birth rates and death rates influence population size.
Chapter 4: Development
Chapter 4 presents how human population growth and development cause global environmen- tal issues. It touches some environmental and so- cial impacts brought about by growing populations.
Chapter 5: Sustainable Development
The last chapter addresses the relationships that exist between economics, public policy and the environment. It begins with a short introduction of Agenda 21, and then discusses the contributions of civil groups and movements focusing especially on present environmental concerns. It closes with healthy lifestyles, proper skills and practices to en- joy a sustainable future.
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G et
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ot o.
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M A
PA G
lossary Resources
Review A
ctivity C
Introduction to Ecology
The three topics discussed in Chapter 1 provide basic background knowledge. It begins with the introduc- tion to Ecology and its relationships to other scien-
ces, as well as the importance of its study.
The Earth is the third planet from the Sun and the fifth lar- gest. It is composed of three major regions or layers: the crust, the mantle and the core. The outer crust is divided into regions known as the tectonic plates. The Earth is the only planet in the Solar System with tectonic plates. Ac- cording to Cain (2008), scientists believed that the molten
core, which is composed mainly of iron, creates a mag- netic field. This magnetic field extends thousands of kilo- meters from the surface of the Earth to the atmosphere. The magnetic field covers the Earth and protects it from the direct hit of the particles from the Sun’s solar wind. Solar wind is a flow of charged particles ejected from the sun. These charged particles can be trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with air particles producing glow known as auroras.
The Earth’s atmosphere is composed of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% other substances which envelops the planet. This atmosphere shields us mostly from the sun’s harmful radiation.
The Earth is the only planet where life has actually been discovered. It is the only planet found that could support life. The earth provides all the things we need to survive. It is also this reason why most of our natural resources are diminishing because of our negligence and perhaps our ignorance. It is our responsibility to take care of the Earth. It is our home.
The buzzword in the world today is Ecology. Governments show their concern and interest for environmental cleaning, caring for populations of animals and plants threatened with extinction, the decontamination of certain areas in order to take necessary measures to maintain a healthy balance between communities and their environment.
Glossary
Ecology The scientific study of relationships between organisms and their envi- ronment. It is concerned with the dis- tribution, behavior and life histories of individual species. It studies the structure and function of natural sys- tems based on population, communi- ties and ecosystems.
Aurora A natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of streamers of reddish or greenish light in the sky, usually near the northern or southern magnetic pole.
Natural resources Goods and services supplied by the environment.
Population A group of individuals of the same species occupying a given area.
Extinction The permanent elimination of spe- cies; can be a normal process of the natural world or as environmental conditions change.
Environment The conditions or circumstances that surround an organism or group of organisms including the complex social or cultural conditions that affect an individual or community.
Page 1 of 1
2
the word economy and in the extension of his argument introduces the idea of the environment that includes or- ganic (biotic) –living factors– and all inorganic (abiotic) – nonliving– factors on which living things depend for their existence. These factors are discussed in detail in the next chapter.
If we looked at nature around us, we could observe that the environment of
any living being is incredibly com- plex. Organisms are open sys-
tems that continuously interact with their environment. There are sets of physical factors that determine the characteristics of the environment such as temperature, salinity, humidity or the amount of sunlight. In addition, any living being is in contact with many other or-
ganisms, either of their own species or other species, which can be their food; others can be their para- sites or predators. Ecology studies precisely these aspects of biology, the relationships of living things with each other and their environment. Ecology seeks to understand how these interactions determine the morphological and physio- logical adaptations, as well as the abundance, distribution and diversity of organisms in nature.
“Father of Modern Ecology”and is credited with pioneering the concept of ecosystem. In his work Ecology: The link between the Natural and Social Sciences, he referred to Ecology as the “study of the structure and function of the environment in which humanity is a part of it” (Diaz, 2011, p. 6). According to Diaz (2011), Dr. Odum mentioned in his book that the word ecology comes from the same root as
Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.1 What is Ecology? Glossary
1.1 What is Ecology?
The word ecology comes from the Greek words oikos, “house”, and logos, “study”. The “house” being the “environment” of the organisms, that is, ecology is
the study of living organisms in the environment they inha- bit and in which they perform all their vital functions.
Ecosystem A specific biological community and its physical environment interacting between them.
Biotic factors Pertaining to life; environmental fac- tors created by living things.
Abiotic factors Elements of the physical environment, the nonliving part of the environment that affects a particular organism.
Biology A science that studies life.
It was Ernst Heinrich Haeckel, a German zoo- logist, who first in- troduced the word “ecology” in 1866 to describe the “ e c o n o m i e s ” of living forms (Sarkar, 2009). Later, Dr. Eugene Odum, who with his text- book entitled Fundamen- tals of Ecology, published in 1953, has been dubbed the
Ecology is the study of the interactions
between living organisms and their interac- tion with the environment.
Getty Images/iStockphoto.com/photos.com
3 Glossary
Biosphere The zone of air, land, and water at the surface of the Earth that is occupied by organisms.
Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.1 What is Ecology?
Ecology studies the sum of all the Earth’s ecosystems: the biosphere. It includes the entire portion of the Earth inhabited by life. Because of its great scope, Ecology can be divided into different areas of study:
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4 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.2 Ecology and the Other Sciences Glossary
Genetics The science of heredity.
Evolution Biology, genetic change in a species over time.
Biology A science that studies life.
Heredity The transmission of genetic informa- tion from parent to offspring.
1.2. Ecology and the Other Sciences
During the 1960s, Ecology was regarded in acade- mic circles as a branch of biology and is often in- cluded in a curriculum package for advanced bio-
logy together with Genetics, developmental Biology and Evolution. In this context, according to Diaz (2011, p.9), Ecology is counted as “Environmental Biology”. The conti- nued increase in human population and the accompanying destruction of the environment has drawn public attention to the world of Ecology; it is then that Ecology was consi- dered a major science.
Even so, Ecology is intimately linked to other biological disciplines. In particular, it is closely related to Physiology, which studies the functioning of organs and systems of li- ving organisms. Ecology studies the effect of the environmental conditions in relation with the proper functioning of the body organs or systems of an organism. For example, Phy- siology investigates how the respiratory sys- tem functions in a living thing, while Ecology studies how the presence of high concentra- tion of pollutants in the environment affects the proper functioning of the respiratory sys- tem of a living being.
In addition to Physiology, Ecology also has much to do with Genetics and Evolutionary Biology. Genetics is a branch of biology that studies traits and heredity. Ecological interactions are, in themselves, hustles of natural selection that drive the evolution of species. Evolution is possible be- cause of natural selection. So, what happens to organisms in their environment day by day is what gives rise to their evolution in the long term. In this case, genetics is funda- mental to understanding how the characteristics of these organisms will be the turning point of their success or failure to pass their traits from one generation to another.
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5 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.2 Ecology and the Other Sciences Glossary
Chemistry A science that studies matter.
Aside from Biology, Ecology also relies greatly on disciplines outside Biology. For example, to explain how living things are dis- tributed throughout the world, one must un- derstand how organisms function and how they are grouped, and also analyze the environ- mental conditions on which these organisms are located. In this case, Geography, Geology and Meteorology are essential. Other sciences such as Chemistry and Physics help understand the important ecological processes that occur in the environment like the nutrient cycles and the exchange of matter and energy between organisms and their environment.
Because humans are part of the bio- tic factors in the environment, we are also included in the study of Ecology. All our activities and interactions in eco- nomy and politics have ecological im- portance. Social sciences such as Economy and Sociology are also applied to use in Ecology. At the same time, human being is one of the elements of nature that can create great change in the structure and function of the environment due to his social involvement. This is the reason why Ecology is said to be an interdisciplinary and integrated science due
to its association to other sciences, not only to life sciences but also to social sciences, in the search for answers to fundamental is- sues.
The environmental crisis comes in many faces and in many aspects, and not all are related to Ecology. For example, to address the problem of environmental pollution, the science of Chemistry and Meteorology are employed. Physics and Engineering can provide alternative sources of ener- gy that is becoming scarce. To unders- tand the phenomenon of global climate change we must rely on Geography and Thermodynamics. Thus, the en- vironmental crisis is not an exclusive concern of Ecology. It is a problem that concerns all humanity.
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6 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.3. Why Study Ecology? Glossary
Ecosystem A specific biological community and its physical environment interacting between them matter and energy.
Landscape A large land area composed of inte- racting ecosystems.
Biodiversity The genetic, species, and ecological diversity of the organisms in a given area.
Click on an image below to know some good reasons to study Ecology. 1.3. Why Study Ecology?
Ecosystems have been functio- ning for billions of years without human tending. The
supply for natural resources was sufficient for the demands of a few populations. But as populations grow, there is also an increase in the need for resources. Natural resour- ces diminish as population sizes in- crease. Development and progress take over landscapes, and natural resources become scarce, unable to supply growing populations. Natural habitats of animals and plants are cut down. Ecosystems lose biodi- versity. New buildings and factories arise and sources of groundwater are polluted.
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7 Chapter 1. Introduction to Ecology 1.3. Why Study Ecology?
Many environmental problems now face us. The health effects of toxic wastes, pollution and other environmental hazards of modern society have become a greater threat than infectious diseases. The destruction of tropical forests, wetlands, and other landscapes with biological importance is causing an alarming loss of biodiversity that could severely limit our options for the future. These and other serious problems explain the importance of environmental science and how environmental education helps us understand the impact each one has in the environment. It is our responsibility to protect and restore our environment. Being aware of the problems we face is the principal step toward finding their solutions. Unluckily, if we do not take actions about these problems now, we may not have another chance to do so.
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1. Introduction to Ecology Conclusion
Ecology is the science that studies the relationships between organisms and their interactions with their environment. It is a multidisciplinary science that encompasses many sciences, such as Physics, Chemistry, Microbiology, Geo-
logy, Entomology, Botany, Zoology, and others. Recently, this science has received much publicity, making its presence known in proper environmental attempts such as recycling, and awareness of hazardous contamination and its effects.
Human population is increasing and we are putting a tremendous strain on Earth, our home. It faces problems of overuse of natural resources, loss of biodiversity and degradation of habitat, and a rapid climate change. It is impossible to solve these problems without knowledge of ecology and environmental science.
It is the duty of every human being to secure the prosperity on Earth, minimize the detrimental effects of our actions to the environment and manage our natural resources to support future generations.
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N Ñ O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Chapter 1. Glossary
A Abiotic factors Elements of the physical environment, the nonli- ving part of the environment that affects a particu- lar organism.
Aurora A natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of streamers of reddish or greenish light in the sky, usually near the northern or southern magnetic pole.
B Biodiversity The genetic, species, and ecological diversity of the organisms in a given area.
Biology A science that studies life.
Biosphere The zone of air, land, and water at the surface of the Earth that is occupied by organisms.
Biotic factors Pertaining to life; environmental factors created by living things.
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C Chemistry A science that studies matter.
Community A group of populations of different species living in the same area and interacting with one another. It is the living portion of an ecosystem.
E Ecology The scientific study of relationships between organisms and their environment. It is concerned with the distribution, behavior and life histories of individual species. It studies the structure and function of natural systems based on population, communities and ecosystems.
Ecosystem A specific biological community and its physical environment interacting between them.
Environment The conditions or circumstances that surround an organism or group of organisms including the complex social or cultural conditions that affect an individual or community.
Evolution Biology, genetic change in a species over time.
Extinction The permanent elimination of species; can be a normal process of the natural world or as environmental conditions change.
G Genetics The science of heredity.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N Ñ O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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Chapter 1. Glossary
H Heredity The transmission of genetic information from parent to offspring.
L Landscape A large land area composed of interacting ecosystems.
N Natural resources Goods and services supplied by the environment.
P Population A group of individuals of the same species occupying a given area.
S Solar wind The continuous flow of charged particles from the sun that permeates the solar system.
Sustainable development An increase in well-being or quality of life that can be maintained for a long period of time without degrading the environment or compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N Ñ O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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Chapter 1. Resources » A collection of videos about planet Earth. Planet 100 Videos: Planet
Green Videos, Focus Earth: Planet Green. PlanetGreen.com http://planetgreen.discovery.com/videos/the-planet-100/
» An exciting way to see places on Earth via the Google Earth Blog. Google Earth Blog http://www.gearthblog.com/
» Animation with a few thoughts about ecology. Ecology Is… Animation by Lukasz Szozda http://youtu.be/Ac1UV30jt_U
» A video clip about how scientists lived in Biosphere 2. Biosphere 2 http://youtu.be/l4DX994NonE
» Find out more about the importance of the study of ecology. Importancy of Biodiversity http://curiosity.discovery.com/question/importance-of-studying-ecology
» The best place to know more about what is happening on Earth through National Geographic daily News. National Geographic Daily News http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/
» The New York Times. The Opinion Pages. Blogs about the Earth. Revkin, A.C. Dot Earth http://dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com/
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Introduction to Ecology ..............................................................................1 1.1 What is Ecology? ........................................................................2 1.2. Ecology and the Other Sciences .................................................4 1.3. Why Study Ecology? ...................................................................6
2.1 Biotic Components ....................................................................16 2.1.1 Biomes .............................................................................18
2.2.1 Natural Resources ...........................................................38 2.2.1.1 Biodiversity as Natural Resource...........................39 2.2.1.2 Water: An Essential Resource ...............................41 2.2.1.3 Soil and Soil Ecosystem ........................................43 2.2.1.4 Energy from Fossil Fuels .......................................43
2.2.2 Physical Factors that Affect the Environment ..................44
2.2.2.1 Humidity .................................................................44 2.2.2.2 Temperature ...........................................................45 2.2.2.3 Amount of Light from the Sun ................................45 2.2.2.4 Soil .........................................................................46 2.2.2.5 Salinity ...................................................................47 2.2.2.6 pH ..........................................................................47
3.3.1 Dynamics of Population Growth.......................................68 Review Activity .......................................................................................69 Chapter 3. Integrating Exercise ...............................................................70 Chapter 3. Conclusion .............................................................................71 Chapter 3. Glossary ................................................................................72 Chapter 3. Resources .............................................................................73
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4.1.2 Pathways of Risk .............................................................79 4.1.2.1 Risk of Being Poor ................................................. 79 4.1.2.2 Lifestyles ................................................................79 4.1.2.3 Geographical Locations ......................................... 79
4.2.1 Crossroads in Biodiversity ............................................... 81 4.2.1.1 Protection and Conservation of Endangered Spe- cies ....................................................................................83
4.2.2 Deforestation....................................................................83 4.2.3 Global Warming ...............................................................84 4.2.4 Ozone Layer Depletion ....................................................84
5.1 What is sustainable development? ............................................ 94 5.1.1 Agenda 21 ........................................................................95
5.2 Resources and the wealth of nations ......................................... 96 5.3 Citizen Involvement ...................................................................97
5.4 Lifestyles for Sustainable Future ................................................ 98 Chapter 5. Integrating Exercise ...............................................................99 Chapter 5. Conclusion ...........................................................................100 Chapter 5. Glossary ..............................................................................101 Chapter 5. Resources ...........................................................................102
131 p. cm.
1. Sustainable development
LC: HC79.E5 Dewey: 333.7
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Introduction to Ecology
1.3. Why Study Ecology?
Chapter 1. Integrating Excercise
2. Components of the Environment
2.1 Biotic Components
2.1.2.1 Trophic Levels
2.1.2.2 Biogeochemical Cycles
2.2 Abiotic Components
2.2.1 Natural Resources
2.2.2 Physical Factors that Affect the Environment
2.2.2.1 Humidity
2.2.2.2 Temperature
2.2.2.4 Soil
2.2.2.5 Salinity
2.2.2.6 pH
Review Activity
3.2.1 Factors that Influence Population Size
3.3 Human Population
Review Activity
4.1.1 Environmental Hazards
4.1.1.1 Cultural Hazards
4.1.1.2 Biological Hazards
4.1.1.3 Chemical Hazards
4.1.1.4 Physical Hazards
4.1.2.2 Lifestyles
4.2 Global Environmental Issues
4.2.1 Crossroads in Biodiversity
4.2.2 Deforestation
5.1.1 Agenda 21
5.3 Citizen Involvement
Chapter 5. Integrating Exercise