Chapter 1- Introduction to Environmental sciences

1
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
At the end of this section, students will be able to:

2
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
1. Define environment, ecosystems, and environmental sciences

3
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
2. Understand the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science

4
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
3. Define sustainability and sustainable development

5
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
4. Understand the complex relationship between natural and human systems

6
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
5. Understand scientific approach and begin to apply the scientific method

7
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Environment and environmental science

8
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Viewed from space, Earth (Figure 1.1) offers no clues about the diversity of life forms that

9
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
reside there. The first forms of life on Earth are thought to have been microorganisms that

10
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
existed for billions of years in the ocean before plants and animals appeared. The

11
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
mammals,

12
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
birds, and plants so familiar to us are all relatively recent, originating 130 to 200 million

13
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
years

14
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
ago. Humans have inhabited this planet for only the last 2.5 million years, and only in the

15
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
last

16
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
200,000 years have humans started looking like we do today. It took thousands of years for

17
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
the

18
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
human population to reach 1 billion (1800) but only 130 years to reach 2 billion (1930). It

19
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
took

20
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
only 30 years to reach 3 billion (1960), 15 years to reach 4 billion (1975), 12 years to reach 5

21
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
billion (1987), 12 years to reach 6 billion (1999) and 13 years to reach 7 billion (2012,

22
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Population Reference Bureau). There are around 7.3 billion people today

23
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
([Link]

24
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
The word ‘environment’ describes living and nonliving surroundings relevant to organisms.

25
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
It

26
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
incorporates physical, chemical and biological factors and processes that determine the

27
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
growth

28
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
and survival of organisms, populations, and communities. All components fit within the

29
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
ecosystem concept as a way to organize all of the factors and processes that make up the

30
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
environment. The ecosystem includes organisms and their environment within a specific

31
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
area.

32
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
The flow of energy and matter through the ecosystems influences abundance and

33
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
distribution of

34
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
organisms within them. Today, human activities influence all of the Earth’s ecosystems.

35
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Earth’s

36
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
natural systems provide ecosystem services required for our survival such as: air and

37
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
water

38
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
purification, climate regulation, and plant pollination. We have degraded nature’s ability to

39
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
provide these services by depleting resources, destroying habitats, and generating

40
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
pollution. The

41
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
benefits people obtain from ecosystems are essential for life. Supporting services include:

42
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
nutrient cycling, soil formation, and primary production. Another important service of

43
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
natural

44
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
ecosystems is provisioning like food production, maintenance of clean water, production of

45
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
wood, fibers and fuel. Ecosystems are responsible for climate regulation, flood regulation

46
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
together with disease regulation, also water purification from natural and anthropogenic

47
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
impurities. Finally ecosystems provide cultural and esthetic services. As humans we gain

48
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
strength and positive energy from observing natural habitats, recreation in waters and

49
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
mountains.

50
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Nature is also a source for poets and writers. It is a source of aesthetics, religious and other

51
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
nonmaterial benefits. Studying ecosystem structure in its original state is the only way we

52
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
can

53
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
make anthropogenic systems like agricultural fields, reservoirs, fracking operations, and

54
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
dammed

55
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
rivers working for human benefit with minimal impact on ours and other organisms’ health.

56
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
For

57
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
more details on chemical and biological organization see Supplement to Chapter 1-

58
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
foundations

59
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
of life.

60
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Environmental sciences study all aspects of the environment in a multidisciplinary /

61
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
interdisciplinary way. It requires the knowledge of various other subjects like biology,

62
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
chemistry,

63
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
physics, statistics, microbiology, bio-chemistry, geology, economics, law, sociology etc. It

64
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
is a

65
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
relatively new field of study that has evolved from integrated use of many disciplines.

66
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Environmental engineering is one of the fastest growing and complex disciplines of

67
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
engineering.

68
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
It creates awareness and understanding of environmental concepts that may be scientific,

69
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
social

70
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
and ecological systems thereby providing a platform for solution to various environmental

71
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
problems

72
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Sustainability and Sustainable Development

73
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
In 1983 the United Nations General Assembly passed resolution 38/161 entitled - Process

74
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
of

75
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
Preparation of the Environmental Perspective to the Year 2000 and Beyond3, - establishing

76
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
a

77
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
special commission whose charge was:

78
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
a. To propose long-term environmental strategies for achieving sustainable development to

79
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
the year 2000 and beyond;

80
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
b. To recommend ways in which concern for the environment may be translated into

81
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
greater

82
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.
co-operation

83
Preserving the environment for humans today and in the future is a responsibility of every
generation and a long-term global goal. Currently, we are drawing down Earth’s natural
capital,
its accumulated wealth of resources. Today’s search for sustainable solutions is centered
on
sustainable development. Sustainability and the triple bottom line (meeting
environmental,
economic, and social goals simultaneously) require that we limit our environmental
impact,
while promoting economic well being and social equity.
Many human activities can be sustainable, For example, sustainable agriculture is
agriculture
that does not deplete soils faster than they form and does not destroy the biodiversity of
the area.
4
Sustainable farming and ranching do not reduce the amount of healthy soil, clean water,
genetic
diversity of crop plants and animals. Maintaining as much ecological biodiversity as
possible in
the agro-ecosystem is essential to long-term crop and livestock production.