Essential Definitions in Environmental Science and Ecology

Core Concepts in Environmental Science

Outcrop

The outcrop leads to more surface and subsurface waters rich in mineral salts (nitrates, phosphates, and silicates), which are essential for phytoplankton productivity and photosynthesis.

Bioclimatic House

A bioclimatic house involves the design of buildings that take into account climatic conditions and available resources (sun, vegetation, rainfall, wind) to reduce environmental impacts and minimize energy consumption.

Natural Purification

Natural purification is the process of water recovery following an episode of organic pollution. In this process, organic compounds are gradually diluted and processed by biochemical decomposition.

Thermal Inversion

A thermal inversion is a deviation from the normal change of atmospheric properties with increasing altitude. It usually corresponds to an increase in temperature with height. Air cannot rise in an inversion area because the air below is cooler and therefore denser than the air above.

Biomarker

A biomarker is an indicator consisting of a plant, fungal, or animal species (or a group thereof) whose presence or state provides information about specific ecological features.

Climate

The climate involves the statistical values of weather elements in a region during a representative period.

Environmental Assessment and Risk

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is the administrative procedure used to identify, manage, and interpret the environmental impacts that a proposed project will produce if implemented. This process allows competent authorities to accept, reject, or modify the project.

Environmental Impact

Environmental impact refers to the effect of a particular human action on the environment in its various aspects.

Oil Slick

An oil slick is the oily mass created when an oil spill occurs in the marine environment.

Environment

The environment refers to the surroundings and special conditions affecting the life circumstances of individuals or society.

Hazard (Dangerousness)

Hazard (or dangerousness) is the chance or risk inherent in certain situations that could result in harm or negative outcomes.

Ecological Processes and Phenomena

Primary Production

Primary production is the creation of organic matter by autotrophs through processes like photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Drought

A drought can be defined as a transient abnormality where the availability of water falls below the statistical requirements of a given geographical area.

Greenhouse Effect

The greenhouse effect is the phenomenon whereby certain gases in a planetary atmosphere retain some of the energy emitted by the ground after it has been heated by solar radiation.

Eutrophication

Eutrophication is the nutrient enrichment of an ecosystem.

Cogeneration

Cogeneration is the process by which both electrical power and useful heat output are obtained simultaneously.