1.4 Sustainability (IB ESS)

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What is sustainability?

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Sustainability refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It encompasses environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

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What is ecological footprint?

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An ecological footprint measures the environmental impact of an individual, community, or organization, expressed as the amount of land and water area required to produce the resources consumed and to absorb the waste generated.

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Define natural capital.

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Natural capital is the world's stocks of natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water, and all living things. It is the basis for ecosystem services that support life.

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What is natural income?

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Natural income is the yield obtained from natural capital, such as the resources and services provided by ecosystems, which can be used sustainably.

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Explain the concept of sustainable development.

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Sustainable development is a development approach that balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity to ensure that resources are available for future generations.

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What are ecosystem services?

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Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, including provisioning services (like food and water), regulating services (like climate regulation), cultural services (like recreation), and supporting services (like nutrient cycling).

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What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

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Renewable resources are resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy and timber. Non-renewable resources are finite and cannot be replaced once depleted, such as fossil fuels and minerals.

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What does the term 'carrying capacity' mean?

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Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the ecosystem.

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What is the significance of biodiversity in sustainability?

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Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, providing a wider range of resources and services essential for human survival and well-being.

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Define sustainable consumption.

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Sustainable consumption is the use of goods and services that meet basic needs and bring a better quality of life while minimizing the use of natural resources and toxic materials.