Environmental Science Essentials

Environmental Components

• The environment encompasses all living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) things surrounding a species
• It's composed of four main components: atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere
• Species need interaction with other species and abiotic factors (e.g., light, soil, temperature) to survive
• Environmental issues like global warming, biodiversity loss, ozone depletion, and resource depletion affect everyone
• National and international efforts are needed, alongside individual responsibility, to protect the environment

Atmosphere

• The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding Earth
• Includes various gases critical for life

Hydrosphere

• The hydrosphere encompasses all water components of Earth, including oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers

Lithosphere

• The lithosphere is the rigid outermost layer of Earth, made up of different minerals and rocks
• It also includes a thin layer of soil

Ecosystem Components

• Ecosystems have both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors
• Abiotic factors include climatic factors (e.g., rain, temperature) and edaphic factors (e.g., soil, pH)
• Biotic factors include producers (e.g., plants), consumers (e.g., animals), and decomposers (e.g., bacteria)
• Decomposers convert organic matter into simpler compounds

Significance of Environment in Human Life

• The environment provides resources for goods and services, including both renewable and non-renewable sources
• Essential elements like sunlight, water, air, and soil support life
• Maintaining genetic variation and biodiversity is key to life's continuation
• The environment plays a role in waste removal

Environmental Pollution

• Pollution introduces harmful materials into the environment, potentially harming organisms and processes
• Environmental problems can be classified by the source (point vs. non-point)
• Categories include air, water, and soil pollution
• Impacts include health concerns, ecosystem damage, and economic losses

Air Pollution

• Air pollution introduces harmful substances into the atmosphere, impacting health, ecosystems, and climate
• Several types of air pollutants exist, with primary and secondary types
• Primary pollutants are produced directly from a source, while secondary pollutants are formed via reactions in the atmosphere
• Major sources of air pollution include industry, vehicles, domestic combustion, and agriculture
• Effects of air pollution include respiratory issues, cardiovascular issues, and premature mortality