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Questions and Answers
What characterizes a stable ecological balance?
Which of the following is NOT a human disruption affecting ecological balance?
Which scenario would likely lead to a problematic change in ecological balance?
What is the primary concern regarding human interactions with ecosystems?
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What can lead to ecological balance changing slowly?
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Which actions are considered positive for ecosystems?
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What is the Edéhzie Protected Area known for?
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Which of the following best describes Indigenous perspectives on environmental sustainability?
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Why is it crucial to establish protected areas like Edéhzie?
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What actions can expand knowledge of Indigenous perspectives on sustainability?
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Study Notes
Ecological Balance
- A stable community of organisms exists in a state of equilibrium.
- Changes in the community can occur slowly, which is generally acceptable.
- Rapid changes in the community can be problematic.
Human Disruptions
- Human activities can disrupt ecological balance through various means.
- Pollution, deforestation, overhunting, overuse of boating, and the introduction of invasive species all contribute to these disruptions.
Indigenous Sustainability
- Indigenous perspectives on environmental sustainability emphasize a deep connection to the land and its resources.
- They value the interconnectedness of all living things and strive to live in harmony with nature.
Edéhzie Protected Area
- The Edéhzie Protected Area in the Northwest Territories (NWT) is a significant example of Indigenous-led conservation efforts.
- First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities came together to protect this area in October 2018.
Understanding Indigenous Perspectives
- It's crucial to understand and respect Indigenous perspectives on environmental sustainability.
- These perspectives offer valuable insights into traditional knowledge systems and practices that have sustained ecological balance for generations.
Sustainable Agriculture
- Industrial agriculture practices often rely on chemical pesticides, monocultures, and genetically modified organisms, which can harm the environment.
- Alternatives to industrial agriculture include organic farming, emphasizing biodiversity, and fostering a healthy soil ecosystem.
Agriculture and Microbes
- Healthy soil is essential for sustainable agriculture.
- A diverse population of microbes, insects, and organic matter in the soil contributes to plant growth by fixing nitrogen from the air.
Climate Change
- Climate change refers to changes in weather patterns, including more extreme weather events and rising global temperatures.
- The primary cause of climate change is the release of greenhouse gases due to human activities.
Greenhouse Gas Effect
- Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a warming effect.
- This process is known as the greenhouse effect and is primarily driven by human activities.
Types of Greenhouse Gases
- Methane ($CH_4$) is emitted from burning fossil fuels and animal agriculture.
- Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) is released from fossil fuel combustion and other human activities.
- Nitrous oxide ($N_2O$) is produced by agricultural and industrial practices.
- Fluorinated gases (CFCs) are emitted from various human-made sources.
Effect on Earth
- Climate change leads to increased heat, which can cause drier conditions and alter landscapes.
Effect on Water
- Climate change is causing glaciers and ice to melt, contributing to rising sea levels.
Effect on Animals
- Climate change disrupts animal habitats, impacts migration patterns, and significantly affects overall biodiversity.
Conservation of Energy
- Utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power is crucial for sustainable energy conservation.
Waste Management
- Waste management practices should prioritize recycling and composting to reduce the impact on natural resources and minimize pollution.
Better Pest Control
- Sustainable pest control methods include using natural predators, growing pest-resistant plants, and minimizing the use of pesticides.
Sustainable Food Choices
- Consuming locally produced food, reducing meat consumption, and growing your own food are all steps towards sustainable food choices.
Survival of a Species
- The survival of a species depends on factors such as access to food, water, shelter, and mates.
Competition
- Competition occurs between organisms for resources such as mates, territory, food, and water.
- Interspecific competition involves different species, while intraspecific competition occurs between members of the same species.
- Competition plays a significant role in natural selection and evolution.
Parasitism
- Parasitism is a relationship where one organism (parasite) benefits at the expense of another organism (host).
- Parasites may feed on the host or consume its resources.
Commensalism
- Commensalism is an interaction where one species benefits, while the other is neither benefited nor harmed.
Mutualism
- Mutualism is a relationship where both species benefit from the interaction.
- Obligate mutualism requires both species to survive.
- Facultative mutualism allows species to survive independently but benefits from the relationship.
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Description
This quiz explores the concept of ecological balance and the impacts of human disruption on the environment. It highlights Indigenous perspectives on sustainability and features the Edéhzie Protected Area as a key example of conservation efforts. Test your understanding of these critical environmental issues.
