Earth Systems Science Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is defined as a set of things working together as part of a mechanism or an interconnecting network?

  • Ecosystem
  • System (correct)
  • Biome
  • Climate
  • Which of the following are considered one of the four interconnected Earth systems?

  • Trophosphere
  • Geosphere
  • Hydrosphere (correct)
  • Ecosystem
  • What is the main focus of ecology as a scientific study?

  • Cultural systems
  • Weather patterns
  • Ecosystems (correct)
  • Economic systems
  • Which term refers to large-scale ecosystems that transition gradually from the Equator to the Poles?

    <p>Biomes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes Systems Theory?

    <p>It is a relational approach that is transdisciplinary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best distinguishes weather from climate?

    <p>Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate is a long-term average.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT an example of a biological system?

    <p>Cultural systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are abiotic components of ecosystems primarily concerned with?

    <p>Non-living physical and chemical elements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concept behind Environmental Determinism and Possibilism?

    <p>Climate influences people, and people can adapt to their environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a cause of global sea level rise?

    <p>Increase in rainfall</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'sustainability' primarily refer to?

    <p>Meeting current needs without compromising future generations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following represents a component of Social Sustainability?

    <p>Cultural preservation and gender equality.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the Inner Ring of the Sustainability Doughnut?

    <p>Resources necessary for basic human needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following approaches is employed by The Long Run (TLR) organization in their sustainability efforts?

    <p>Utilization of the 4Cs approach: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Climate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much has the global average sea level increased since 1880?

    <p>8–9 inches (21–24 centimeters)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect does NOT belong to the framework of Environmental Sustainability?

    <p>Creating economic growth through resource exploitation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Systems Theory

    • A way of understanding how different parts of the world work together as interconnected networks
    • Simple systems contain a limited number of parts while complex systems have many interconnected parts
    • Systems can be closed, where there is no exchange with the external world, or open, where there is exchange
    • Systems have inputs and outputs, which interact with the outside environment
    • Systems are more than the sum of their parts

    Earth Systems

    • Earth is made up of 4 interconnected systems:
      • Atmosphere (air)
      • Hydrosphere (water)
      • Lithosphere (earth)
      • Biosphere (life)
    • All these systems work together to create the environment we live in

    Biomes and Climate

    • Biomes are large ecosystems that cover a wide geographic area
    • Climate is influenced by geography and in turn influences societies
    • Climate change is driven by an increase in global temperature, leading to changes in weather patterns and associated risks

    Sea Level Rise

    • Sea level has risen by approximately 8-9 inches since 1880
    • Sea level rise is caused by melting ice sheets and thermal expansion of the ocean
    • Many of the world's largest cities are located near coastlines, putting them at risk from sea level rise

    Social-Ecological Systems Theory

    • Humans are part of nature and not separate from it
    • Human actions influence the environment and the environment influences humans

    Sustainability

    • Sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising future generations to meet their own needs
    • Sustainability comprises three main aspects: Environmental, Social, and Economic

    Environmental Sustainability

    • Focuses on maintaining the health and resilience of ecosystems
    • Aimed at avoiding environmental tipping points and reducing negative impacts
    • Prioritizes biodiversity conservation and cohabitation with ecosystems

    Social Sustainability

    • Promotes social justice, equity, and cultural preservation
    • Ensures equitable access to resources, opportunities, and basic needs
    • Prioritizes gender equality and human rights

    Economic Sustainability

    • Aims to create economic systems that don’t rely on endless growth
    • Focuses on transitioning away from fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy
    • Aims to eliminate poverty and ensure a decent standard of living for all

    Sustainability Doughnut

    • Represents the intersection of social needs and environmental limits
    • The inner ring depicts social needs for a decent life
    • The outer ring represents planetary boundaries that must not be exceeded
    • The hole in the middle represents social and environmental injustices

    Case Study: The Long Run (TLR) and Caimans in the Pantanal

    • TLR is a sustainability organization focused on conservation and community development
    • Uses a 4Cs approach: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce for sustainability
    • Works to protect caimans and their ecosystem in the Pantanal wetland

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    Lecture 3 - Sustainability PDF

    Description

    Explore the interconnectedness of Earth's systems in this quiz. From systems theory to biomes and climate change, understand how the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere interact to shape our environment. Test your knowledge on the impact of climate change and sea level rise.

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