...Biodiversity is the foundation of ecosystem services to which human well-being is intimately linked. No feature of Earth is more complex, dynamic, and varied than the layer of living organisms that occupy its surfaces and its seas, and no feature is experiencing more dramatic change at the hands of humans than this extraordinary, singularly unique feature of Earth. This layer of living organisms—the biosphere—through the collective meta¬bolic activities of its innumerable plants, animals, and microbes physically and chemically unites the atmosphere, geo-sphere, and hydrosphere into one environmental system within which millions of species, including humans, have thrived. Breathable air, potable water, fertile soils, productive lands, bountiful...
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...Globalization in Guatemala’s Biodiversity Guatemala is a country territorially small, but with a unique natural and cultural in the world. It’s condition as the linkage between two continental spheres, also with the variety of terrestrial and edaphic (physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the land) forms, the amplitude altitudinal, pluvial and thermal, between some other factors, are responsible of the existence of a great variety of ecosystems and of species. Also, Guatemala is one of the countries around the world with a big ethnic diversity. This natural and ethnic diversity have generated many ways of interaction and use of the wild species, as to an intense domestic adaptation that has become an important support for the diet of Guatemalans and of many habitants of many other countries. Guatemala has being denominated Mesoamerican Center, is one of eight important world centers of cultivated plants. It is also part of the Mesoamerican Eco-region, which is one of twenty-five terrestrial eco-regions most important in the world, not only for its large biodiversity but also because of the high threats of itself (Galvez, 2000). This essay will present some of the elements of most importance of the biological biodiversity in the development of the human kind, as its relevance of the natural capital. Guatemala it’s a place of big amplitude of different live organisms that interact as to form complex connections of interdependence. The biodiversity is an important aspect...
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...diversification of human induced disturbances upon natural ecosystems has contributed to wildlife habitat fragmentation which has been a serious threat to the survival of natural populations. Possible factors contributing to this decline include changes in food, loss of genetic variation, cover availability, evolution of predation, microclimatic effect, and lack of recolonization following extinctions. Habitat loss and fragmentation are processes that separate small populations, which have higher extinction rates that may lead to a reduction in biological diversity. Recent dramatic declines in forest management have brought some undesirable consequences for forest health and wildlife (Jack Ward, T. (n.d). Standing back and letting nature take its course has become increasingly prevalent. Unfortunately, while appealing as this sounds, this is not tenable in the long-term as it will not protect forests, retain biodiversity, and provide some wood products over time. We are increasingly depending on places beyond our borders to provide our wood places with far less resources and knowledge about how to manage forests responsibly. By importing wood products, we export not only environmental consequences but jobs and dollars ( Jack Ward, T. (n.d). Conservation biology needs to reach out to a much broader community of academics and practitioners in fields as diverse as anthropology, history, political geography, and environmental psychology (Bernstein, M., & Ladle...
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...cultivation have long histories in Asia, where many species and varieties of each originated and were first developed for human use. Fish can be raised in rice fields, either concurrently with the rice crop or in rotation with rice. Ricefish farming can also be practised at different intensities. Not only do rice-fish systems use one habitat to produce both an important grain and a protein resource, but they also promote some very beneficial interactions: rice plants provide shade for fish, while fish oxygenate the water. The systems also minimize risks for resource-poor farmers, protect natural resources and promote biodiversity. As world rice production increases, so too does the adoption of rice-fish farming systems. THE SITUATION THE SITUATION Rice is the dominant staple crop of tropical Asia, where it has a long history of domestication and a rich diversity of cultivated ecotypes based on three types of Oryza sativa (indica, japonica and javanica), which are cultivated in different agro-ecological zones for their differing growth, grain and yield characteristics. There are four basic rice agro-ecosystems in China, each with its own peculiar edaphic conditions: irrigated ecosystems, terrace ecosystems, lowland rainfed ecosystems, and flood-prone (very deep water) ecosystems. In addition, many freshwater fish species originated in tropical Asia, especially carps, catfishes and air-breathing fishes. In China there is now a rich variety of rice-fish farming systems, which...
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...Biodiversity Lasnosha Snowden ENV 300 Environmental Science Nicole Minor June 15, 2015 All living organisms are present in ecosystems to coexist together to create biodiversity and without different species, these environment could fail horribly. Every living organism has a purpose in order to keep the balance of biodiversity. In order for there to be “biological diversity, these items are organized at many levels, ranging from complete ecosystems to the chemical structures that are the molecular basis of heredity” (1987). Not always in a friendly environmental manner, Human actions has played a big key role in the changing of the environment. A nonproductive planet would be result, if we did not have an abundance of species and ecosystems. All living organisms rely on one another to survive and thrive. Biodiversity is the total of species living together in an area, a community, or the entire planet. Genetic diversity, habitat diversity, and species diversity are three different concepts can be defined as Biodiversity. The same species in different populations found with patterns of variations and a bundle of different genes located in one species is known as genetic diversity. Within a specified area, the number of different habitats is habitat diversity. When checking for species diversity there are three qualities that you should look for species dominance, species evenness, and species richness. The most abundant species measured is species dominance. The entire...
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...threats to biodiversity, by restoring and conserving forests while improving livelihoods, and building resilience to climate change in both people and ecosystems in 2011. It works on three core interwoven components – biodiversity conservation, sustainable landscapes and climate adaptation – with livelihoods, gender and social inclusion being important crosscutting themes. Hariyo Ban is a USAID-funded consortium of four core partner organizations – World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE), Federation of Community Forestry Users, Nepal (FECOFUN) and the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) – with WWF serving as the managing partner. The program finds its inspiration from the popular saying ‘Hariyo Ban Nepal Ko Dhan’ (Healthy green forests are the wealth of Nepal) which emphasizes the links between people and forests that underpins the project’s approach (Sundar Safalta, part 1). CHAL covers the 32057 square km area from Terai 200 m to Himal 8091 m above to see level in central Nepal. The landscape includes all or part of 19 districts and is drained by six major perennial rivers and their tributaries of the broader Gandaki River System. In this region varity of climates (hot in terai to cold in Himalaya) can be found. More than 35 percent area is covered by different kinds of forest through broad-leaved evergreen, mixed broad-leaved, conifer to alpine scrub and meadow which play an important role in agricultural diversity CHAL includes...
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...prevent environmental impacts that result from human action, or whether they are attempting to adapt to such changes, consciously or unconsciously (Thomas 2007, p.8). Natural Resources Natural resources have been critical for human welfare since people first started to walk the earth several million years ago (Field 2005 p.27). Natural resource economics is the study of how the flow of goods and services derived from natural resources is, and should be, managed in today’s world (Field 2005 p.37). Field continues to state that resource management problems derive from the underlying technological, institutional and cultural factors that characterise the economy (2005, p.37). Given the information concerning environmental policy and the importance of natural resources to human welfare and, the fact that our natural resources are under threat not just for today’s generation but for future generations. This paper will now discuss one of the essential elements of life...
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...Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity 1. Introduction Climate change (also known as global warming) refers to an increase in mean annual surface temperature of the earth’s atmosphere, owing to increases in concentration of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide in the atmosphere (Ninan, 2009). Biodiversity, on the other hand, is shorthand for biological diversity, and it is about the living world with which humanity not only co-exist but has evolved as a dependant part. The term biodiversity acknowledges that the natural world is a whole living system, and we are a part of it (Corlett & LaFrankie, 1998). The phase “climate change” and “global warming” are now a part of our lives and rarely does a day goes by without a mention, in the press or on the radio, of the possible causes of climate change and its consequences. This phenomenon has sneaked up on us in a somewhat short period of time and is accelerating at an alarming rate. It is perhaps the most serious problem that is threatening the civilized world today (Ninan, 2009). This paper postulates that climate change poses a serious threat on biodiversity. It will put forward evidence of how biodiversity has been affected worldwide, and will seek a solution to this problem 1.2. Biodiversity and its importance Simply put, biodiversity represents the fabric of life itself. It is comprised not only of numbers of species, but also includes the variety of all life...
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...BIODIVERSITY OF TANGUAR HAOR: A RAMSAR SITE OF BANGLADESH Volume I: Wildlife (Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals) IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, helps the world find pragmatic solutions to our most pressing environment and development challenges. IUCN works on biodiversity, climate change, energy, human livelihoods and greening the world economy by supporting scientific research, managing field projects all over the world, and bringing governments, NGOs, the UN and companies together to develop policy, laws and best practice. IUCN is the world's oldest and largest global environmental organization, with more than 1,200 government and NGO members and almost 11,000 volunteer experts in some 160 countries. IUCN's work is supported by over 1,000 staff in 45 offices and hundreds of partners in public, NGO and private sectors around the world. www.iucn.org About IUCN Biodiversity of Tanguar Haor: A Ramsar Site of Bangladesh Volume I: Wildlife (Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals) Biodiversity of Tanguar Haor: A Ramsar Site of Bangladesh Volume I: Wildlife (Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals) Research and Text Technical Editor A. B. M. Sarowar Alam Mohammad Shahad Mahabub Chowdhury Dr. Istiak Sobhan Dr. Reza Khan Ishtiaq Uddin Ahmad Md. Aminur Rahman The designation of geographical entities in this book, and the presentation of the material, do not imply the expression of any opinion...
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...the Swiss canton of Aargau. 100 The new Ste. Genevieve plant of Holcim US in Missouri. Contents Introduction Performance against targets Chairman’s statement CEO interview Vision and strategy Q “Delivering value to your stakeholders is part of your mission. How do you achieve results while operating with sustainability and integrity? Are incentives for sustainable practices integrated into performance compensation plans?” SD challenges Sustainable solutions and construction Q “What is Holcim’s contribution to improve efficiencies in the building materials industry?” Energy and climate Q “Holcim appears to be ahead of its competitors with regards to its level of carbon emissions. How does Holcim plan to further reduce its CO2 footprint, while providing the construction materials for the schools, hospitals, homes and infrastructure the world needs?” Biodiversity and water Q “Reducing energy use will in turn reduce CO2 emissions and water consumption. How can Holcim ensure that the overall synergies between energy, climate, biodiversity and water are taken into consideration?” Our people Q “There have been complaints from unions regarding labor issues. What kind of measures is Holcim taking to prevent unfair labor practices?” Social commitment Q “How is Holcim’s business model able to improve the quality of life of the poor?” Performance data Methodology and assurance 30 36 28 22 18 14 10 10 2 3 4 6 Key to symbols: CR ARA see page in this report see our Annual...
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...pharmaceutical and oil refinery, many corporations contribute to the injustice of violating human rights and the environment. As the business world and economy evolves into a free market enterprise, many corporations continue to demonstrate poor business practices and it is becoming difficult to hold them liable for their actions. Many corporations are also being very silent about their unjust business practices and have many ways to cover up any reported abuse. Countries that experience environmental violations, should impose strict regulatory policies so that companies cannot cover up their abuse to the general public but reprimanded for not preventing them. In the Merck case study, it is evident that biodiversity has evolved to be a growing industry. However, due to rainforest being destroyed around the world, supply is scarce for many corporations like that of Merck to conduct their research initiatives. As such,...
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...as a biodiversity hotspot characterized by species diversity and endemism (Edet, 2011). The subspecies is one of the most critically endangered primates of Africa (Oates et al., 2008; IUCN, 2013). The subspecies is also one of the world’s 25 most endangered primates (Mittermeier et al., 2009). As humans extend their land use, Cross River gorilla habitat is rapidly disappearing, and this may have adverse effects on number of individuals within the subspecies. The Cross River gorilla, Gorilla gorilla diehli, chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes vellorosus) and drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus), though legally protected by the Endangered Species Decree 11 of 1985, are some of the primates hunted for bushmeat and other purposes (Edet, 2011). The Major threat to the survival of the subspecies is lack of thorough conservation strategy necessary for its protection. The survival of this endangered species and ecosystems depends on long-term participation and understanding of local populations (Oates, 1999). Due to the close relationship between cultural diversity and biodiversity, traditional knowledge systems play an important role when developing species conservation and management strategies (Caldecott et al., 2005; Hens, 2006). For example, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) (article 8j) calls for parties to respect, preserve, and apply knowledge and practices of indigenous and local communities relevant for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity (UNCBD...
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...not the least an elaborate conclusion will be given. Definition of Key Terms Environment: Environment refers to the totality of the surroundings within which humans live and exploit resources for their welfare and development. Main Body In order to effectively challenge problems that pose a threat to the earth, there is need for an effective approach which is backed by robust scientific evidence. This would ultimately usher into place a new and more powerful environmental law. In order to appreciate the relationship between the law and science, there is need for understanding of their respective roles towards the achievement of a more sustainable future. The Role of the Law The law has a fundamental role to play in the movement of protecting the environment towards a more sustainable future. In most jurisdictions in the absence of constitutional provisions and legislative enactments to promote the concept of sustainable development, the burden rests on the courts through judicial activism to rise to the challenge of ensuring that development is pursued in such a way that it meets the needs of the present generation without jeopardizing the needs of future generations. The Rio Declaration affirms the importance of law, which...
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...be fulfilled while maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological processes, biological diversity and life support systems” (UN, 2001a). Trinidad and Tobago has identified as its mission, ‘To fully develop Trinidad and Tobago’s tourism industry by the sustainable development and aggressive promotion of an innovative, differentiated, high value, internationally competitive visitor experience, supported by strong brand recognition, public and private sector partnership and a positive cultural transformation.’ Sustainable tourism is important to Trinidad and Tobago because it ensures the prevention of natural resource depletion and environmental degradation; the promotion of community participation; and poverty reduction. The successful growth of Sustainable Tourism in Trinidad and Tobago is highly dependent on the natural environments that surround it, and the prevention of natural resource depletion and environmental degradation is of key importance. The fact that most tourists chose to maintain their relatively high patterns of consumption is a serious problem for Trinidad especially without the appropriate means for protecting its natural environment from the pressures of this high consumption. Sustainable tourism development encourages the optimal use of environmental resources, maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity. The promotion of community participation is important to sustainable tourism development...
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...Analyze the life cycle environmental and social impact of Heidelberg Cement’s operations, the concerns of different stakeholders on these impacts, and how these stakeholders concerns affect the company. Cement is considered to be one of the most useful materials ever developed by man due to its strength and durability. However by virtue of its chemical and mineral composition as well as its manufacturing process cement production is deemed to have quite a significant environmental and social impact on its various stakeholders in a variety of ways and at varying degrees. One strategy that has been developed to help assess the extent of this impact is the use of a life cycle Assessment tool. The life cycle assessment is a systematic way of compiling and examining the inputs and outputs of energy as well as materials used in the manufacturing of a product or service as well as the environmental impacts directly attributed to the manufacturing process of that product or service throughout its life cycle. The life cycle of a product comprises the manufacturing process from raw material extraction, through to materials processing and manufacturing, all the way to distribution, usage, maintenance and disposal or recycling. One company that has been at the forefront of Cement production over the years has been Heidelberg Cement. Heidelberg cement having been in operation for over 140 years is one of the world’s largest building materials companies. It is a multinational building...
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