Ecosystem Balance and Resource Management Principles
1. No Resource Overexploitation
The Balance of Ecosystems
Ecosystems are dynamic systems, initially autonomous. An ecosystem is formed by:
- A natural or biocenosis community.
- An environment or biotope.
The Overexploitation of Ecosystems
Overexploitation occurs when ecosystems are exploited at a faster rate than their natural regeneration, which may cause biodiversity loss.
Sustainable Development
Meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Food production using traditional methods (intensive agriculture) can cause serious environmental disturbances.
The Energy Flow
The energy from the sun flows through the ecosystem in one direction.
The Cycle of Matter
The nutrients travel through the ecosystem in a loop.
Overfishing
Mineral Resources
To maintain the pace of extraction of minerals, these will eventually be exhausted.
Water Resources
Water scarcity spreads on every continent at an alarming rate.
Forest Resources and Desertification
The extraction leads to abusive deforestation.
Fishery Resources
Marine resources are not inexhaustible.
Species Protection
Protection of species protected by law is necessary to avoid, for example, illegal trade, through:
- International conventions.
- Publication of lists of endangered species.
Energy Resources and Waste
The world population growth has occurred exponentially, and this causes an imbalance in resources.
2. Environmental Impacts
Air Pollution
It is the result of the incorporation of foreign materials into the environment or materials found in the medium at rates higher than the values considered normal.
Water Pollution
Water pollution is caused by pollution discharges, either directly or indirectly (in water or soil).
The Contamination of Soils
Soil contamination is mainly due to metals resulting from industrial activities, fertilizers, farm products, and urban waste.
3. Climate Change and Biodiversity
Climate Change
Climate change is an unusual and lasting alteration of the climate mean state. This may be due to natural internal processes or external changes caused by human actions that affect the composition of the atmosphere or soil.
Biodiversity Loss
The loss of biodiversity, climate change, and biodiversity are closely related concepts, since the former has resulted, among other things, in the loss of diversity.