Ecosystem Management & Sustainability Practices Flashcards

What is the goal of ecosystem management?

Answer: To integrate ecological, economic, and social goals

The goal of ecosystem management is a holistic approach that seeks to sustain ecosystem health and integrity while meeting human needs. It aims to integrate ecological principles with economic and social considerations, recognizing that human well-being is intrinsically linked to healthy ecosystems. This involves balancing conservation efforts with sustainable resource use to achieve long-term ecological, economic, and social benefits.

Why is biodiversity important for ecosystem sustainability?

Answer: It enhances resilience and productivity

Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth, is profoundly important for ecosystem sustainability because it enhances both resilience and productivity. A diverse ecosystem with many different species and genetic variations is more robust and better able to withstand disturbances like climate change, disease, or invasive species. This variety also supports a wider range of ecosystem services, such as nutrient cycling, pollination, and water purification, contributing to overall ecosystem health and stability.

What practice supports sustainable forestry?

Answer: Selective logging with replanting

Sustainable forestry practices aim to manage forests for long-term ecological, economic, and social benefits. Selective logging, where only certain trees are harvested while others are left to grow, combined with active replanting efforts, is a key practice. This approach minimizes disruption to the forest ecosystem, maintains biodiversity, prevents soil erosion, and ensures a continuous supply of timber resources for future generations.

What is a key strategy in ecosystem restoration?

Answer: Re-introducing native species and removing invasives

Ecosystem restoration focuses on assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed. A key strategy involves re-introducing native species that are historically present in the area, which helps to restore ecological functions and food webs. Simultaneously, removing invasive species that outcompete natives and disrupt ecosystem balance is crucial for allowing the native flora and fauna to thrive and the ecosystem to recover its natural state.

Which approach helps reduce human impact on ecosystems?

Answer: Sustainable agricultural practices

Sustainable agricultural practices are designed to produce food and fiber while minimizing negative environmental impacts and conserving natural resources. Approaches like crop rotation, reduced tillage, integrated pest management, and efficient water use help reduce pollution, improve soil health, conserve biodiversity, and decrease reliance on synthetic inputs. By adopting these methods, human impact on ecosystems is significantly lessened, promoting long-term ecological balance.

What is ecological carrying capacity?

Answer: The largest number of individuals an ecosystem can support sustainably

Ecological carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size of a biological species that can be sustained indefinitely by a given environment, considering the available resources and waste assimilation capacity. Exceeding this capacity leads to resource depletion, environmental degradation, and ultimately a decline in the population. Understanding carrying capacity is crucial for sustainable resource management and conservation efforts.

Which is an example of a sustainability indicator?

Answer: Water quality measurements

Sustainability indicators are metrics used to track progress towards sustainable development goals. Water quality measurements, such as pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient levels, and presence of pollutants, are excellent examples because they directly reflect the health of aquatic ecosystems and the availability of clean water, a fundamental resource for all life. Monitoring these indicators helps assess environmental health and guide policy decisions for sustainable resource management.

Why are wetlands important in ecosystem management?

Answer: They provide stormwater control and habitat services

Wetlands are incredibly important in ecosystem management due to the numerous ecosystem services they provide. They act as natural sponges, absorbing excess stormwater and reducing flooding, while also filtering pollutants and improving water quality. Furthermore, wetlands provide critical habitats for a vast array of plant and animal species, supporting biodiversity and serving as vital breeding grounds and nurseries.

What is the triple bottom line in sustainability?

Answer: People, planet, and profit

The triple bottom line (TBL) is a framework for measuring business and organizational success that expands beyond traditional financial metrics to include social and environmental performance. It emphasizes three interconnected pillars: "People" (social equity), "Planet" (environmental stewardship), and "Profit" (economic prosperity). This holistic approach encourages businesses to consider their impact on society and the environment alongside their financial returns, promoting a more sustainable and responsible operational model.