Human Population
What is the estimated world population today?
~ 7 Billion
What is deforestation?
What is the cutting down of large areas of forests for human activities?
What is the primary source of freshwater on Earth?
groundwater, lakes, rivers, and streams
What are pesticides used for?
used to kill pests that damage crops
What is urbanization?
the development of land for houses and buildings near cities
By what year do scientists estimate the world population could exceed 9 billion?
2050
What are two consequences of deforestation?
What are habitat destruction and increased carbon dioxide levels?
What is one effect of agricultural runoff on water bodies
it can upset the nutrient balance
What is desertification?
the development of desert-like conditions due to human activities
How does urbanization impact water runoff
it prevents water from soaking into the soil
How does a growing population impact natural resource use?
Increases demand for land, food, and water
How does deforestation impact soil quality
it leads to soil erosion
What are two major sources of ocean pollution?
unoff from land and trash dumped directly into the ocean
How can farming impact biodiversity?
monoculture can lead to decreased biodiversity
What is a consequence of paving land?
increased risk of flooding
What is a natural resource
something from Earth that living things use to meet their needs
How much tropical rainforest is estimated to be cut down each year
about 130,000 km²
What is the Clean Water Act?
law that regulates sources of water pollution?
What is organic farming?
farming without synthetic fertilizers and pesticides
What are green spaces?
areas left undeveloped that provide recreational opportunities
How can humans minimize their impact on the land?
What are practices like conservation, recycling, and sustainable use of resources?
What percentage of all species on Earth live in tropical rainforests
What is approximately 50 percent?
What is one way to safely dispose of hazardous waste?
using local waste management guidelines
What are the three Rs that individuals can practice to minimize environmental impact?
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
What can be done to manage urban development sustainably?
implementing zoning laws and preserving natural habitats