Environmental science gives holistic knowledge about natural processes, the effects of human intervention and solutions to environmental problems. Issues such as pollution, global warming, ozone layer depletion, acid rain, deforestation, landslide, drought and desertification have gained major focus across the world. Living organisms develop morphological, anatomical, physiological and reproductive adaptations to survive better. This lesson covers biogeochemical cycles, adaptations of plants and animals, water conservation, water recycling and the IUCN.
1. Biogeochemical Cycles
The word comes from bio – life and geo – earth. The biosphere is the part of the earth where life exists. Its resources fall into two major categories:
- Biotic (living) factors – plants, animals and all other living organisms.
- Abiotic (non-living) factors – temperature, pressure, water, soil, air and sunlight, which affect the ability of organisms to survive and reproduce.