Perspectives on Global Biodiversity Scenarios and Environmental Services in the 21st Century

Perspectives on Global Biodiversity Scenarios and Environmental Services in the 21st Century PDF

Author: Chourasia, Naveen Kumar

Publisher: IGI Global

Published: 2023-11-01

Total Pages: 309

ISBN-13: 1668490366

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Quantitative models are increasingly being used to assess the impact of socioeconomic development pathways on biodiversity and environmental services. Regardless of the scenario, the decline of biodiversity will continue throughout the 21st century. Land-use changes drive biodiversity changes in terrestrial systems, while overfishing drives changes in marine systems, and climate change affects all realms. The loss of habitats will lead to local population decreases, and global extinctions will occur at unpredictable rates due to the lag between environmental changes and their effects. To address this, we need to focus more on the relationship between the decline of ecosystem services and the position of species responsible for that function in the trophic hierarchy. Perspectives on Global Biodiversity Scenarios and Environmental Services in the 21st Century makes biodiversity scenarios understandable, relevant, and valuable to stakeholders by using effective language and focused communication techniques. Instead of merely showing the potential effects of global change on biodiversity, scenarios should consider the feedback connecting environmental forces. Biodiversity provides numerous essential environmental services crucial to human well-being both now and in the future. The climate is a critical component of ecosystem functioning and directly and indirectly affects human health. The target audience includes biology and environmental science students and faculty, scientists, social workers who generate and collaborate on biodiversity scenarios, policymakers, and corporations with a basic science understanding.

Global Biodiversity in a Changing Environment

Global Biodiversity in a Changing Environment PDF

Author: F.Stuart Chapin

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2013-12-01

Total Pages: 393

ISBN-13: 1461301572

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The scientific community has voiced two general concerns about the future of the earth. Firstly, climatologists and oceanographers have focused on the changes in our physical environment, ie climate, oceans, and air. And secondly, environmental biologists have addressed issues of conservation and the extinction of species. There is increasing evidence that these two broad concerns are intertwined and mutually dependent. Past changes in biodiversity have both responded to and caused changes in the earths environment. In its discussions of ten key terrestrial biomes and freshwater ecosystems, this volume uses our broad understanding of global environmental change to present the first comprehensive scenarios of biodiversity for the twenty-first century. Combining physical earth science with conservation biology, the book provides a starting-point for regional assessments on all scales. The book will be of interest to those concerned with guiding research on the changing environment of the earth and with planning future policy, especially in accordance with the Global Biodiversity Convention.

Global Biodiversity in a Changing Environment

Global Biodiversity in a Changing Environment PDF

Author: F.Stuart Chapin

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2001-08-24

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9780387952499

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The scientific community has voiced two general concerns about the future of the earth. Climatologists and oceanographers have focused on the changes in our physical environment -- changes in the climate, the oceans, and the chemistry of the air we breathe. Environmental biologists, on the other hand, have addressed issues of conservation and the extinction of species. There is increasing evidence that these two broad concerns are intertwined and mutually dependent. Past changes in biodiversity have both responded to and caused changes in Earth's environment. In its discussions of ten key terrestrial biomes and freshwater ecosystems, this volume uses our broad understanding of global environmental change to present the first comprehensive scenarios of biodiversity for the twenty-first century. Combining physical earth science with conservation biology, Future Scenarios of Global Biodiversity provides a starting point for regional assessments on all scales. The book will be of interest to those concerned with guiding research on the changing environment of the earth and with planning future policy, especially in accordance with the Global Biodiversity Convention.

Biodiversity Scenarios

Biodiversity Scenarios PDF

Author:

Publisher: UNEP/Earthprint

Published: 2010

Total Pages: 136

ISBN-13: 9789292252182

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This synthesis focuses on estimates of biodiversity change as projected for the 21st century by models or extrapolations based on experiments and observed trends. The term "biodiversity" is used in a broad sense as it is defined in the Convention on Biological Diversity to mean the abundance and distributions of and interactions between genotypes, species, communities, ecosystems and biomes. This synthesis pays particular attention to the interactions between biodiversity and ecosystem services and to critical "tipping points" that could lead to large, rapid and potentially irreversible changes. Comparisons between models are used to estimate the range of projections and to identify sources of uncertainty. Experiments and observed trends are used to check the plausibility of these projections.

Twenty-First Century Ecosystems

Twenty-First Century Ecosystems PDF

Author: National Research Council

Publisher: National Academies Press

Published: 2011-12-22

Total Pages: 90

ISBN-13: 0309209048

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The two hundredth anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, February 12, 2009, occurred at a critical time for the United States and the world. In honor of Darwin's birthday, the National Research Council appointed a committee under the auspices of the U.S. National Committee (USNC) for DIVERSITAS to plan a Symposium on Twenty-first Century Ecosystems. The purpose of the symposium was to capture some of the current excitement and recent progress in scientific understanding of ecosystems, from the microbial to the global level, while also highlighting how improved understanding can be applied to important policy issues that have broad biodiversity and ecosystem effects. The aim was to help inform new policy approaches that could satisfy human needs while also maintaining the integrity of the goods and services provided by biodiversity and ecosystems over both the short and the long terms. This report summarizes the views expressed by symposium participants; however, it does not provide a session-by-session summary of the presentations at the symposium. Instead, the symposium steering committee identified eight key themes that emerged from the lectures, which were addressed in different contexts by different speakers. The focus here is on general principles rather than specifics. These eight themes provide a sharp focus on a few concepts that enable scientists, environmental NGOs, and policy makers to engage more effectively around issues of central importance for biodiversity and ecosystem management.

Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health and Well-Being

Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health and Well-Being PDF

Author: Samanta, Debabrata

Publisher: IGI Global

Published: 2024-01-29

Total Pages: 310

ISBN-13:

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Climate change has far-reaching consequences beyond its environmental impact. It also significantly affects human social and mental well-being, both at individual and community levels. Addressing the social and mental well-being impacts of climate change requires a multi-faceted approach that includes both mitigation and adaptation strategies. This involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting sustainable development, building climate-resilient communities, enhancing social support systems, and investing in mental health services to address the specific challenges of climate change. In this groundbreaking exploration, Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health and Well-Being transcends the traditional discourse on climate change by delving into its repercussions on the social and mental fabric of our communities. From the foundational examination of the connections between climate change, social stability, food security, and mental health to the nuanced exploration of eco-anxiety, ethical dilemmas, economic instability, and climate-induced migration, this work leaves no stone unturned in its quest for knowledge. The book not only identifies the problems but also offers solutions. By emphasizing a multi-faceted approach, it advocates for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable development, climate-resilient communities, and robust mental health services. It empowers readers—academics, professionals, policymakers, and the general informed public—to take actionable steps toward a sustainable and mentally resilient future. The interdisciplinary nature of this work makes it a valuable resource for graduate and postgraduate students, professionals in various fields, educators, and policymakers.

Perspectives on Ecological Degradation and Technological Progress

Perspectives on Ecological Degradation and Technological Progress PDF

Author: Yilanci, Veli

Publisher: IGI Global

Published: 2023-07-24

Total Pages: 359

ISBN-13: 1668467291

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In economics, researchers have stated that there is a limit to growth because natural resources are finite. However, with technological developments and the discovery of new natural resource reserves, the limits on growth and development have begun to disappear. New technologies promoting energy efficiency provide growth opportunity in new directions, and the development of technologies have a positive effect on the environment. Perspectives on Ecological Degradation and Technological Progress explores the economic and social impacts of technological progress on environmental degradation from a multidisciplinary perspective. Other factors that may affect environmental degradation are analyzed, and indicators that may be important for the environment are determined. Covering topics such as economic growth, ecological degradation, and environmental violations, this premier reference source is an excellent resource for economists, ecologists, government officials, sociologists, environmental engineers and innovators, students and educators of higher education, librarians, researchers, and academicians.

Exploring Ethical Dimensions of Environmental Sustainability and Use of AI

Exploring Ethical Dimensions of Environmental Sustainability and Use of AI PDF

Author: Kannan, Hemachandran

Publisher: IGI Global

Published: 2023-12-07

Total Pages: 447

ISBN-13:

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Exploring Ethical Dimensions of Environmental Sustainability and Use of AI is a comprehensive and insightful book that delves into the ethical implications and challenges that emerge at the intersection of environmental sustainability and the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI). With a focus on key ethical dimensions such as transparency, equity, privacy, autonomy, unintended consequences, and trade-offs, this book aims to provide a thorough understanding of the responsible deployment and development of AI in the realm of environmental sustainability. By addressing the ethical aspects and challenges involved, this book contributes to the development of ethical guidelines and frameworks that align AI technologies with the vision of a sustainable and equitable future. Researchers will find immense value in this book as it offers a holistic exploration of the ethical implications, filling a critical gap in the existing literature. Policymakers can gain valuable insights to inform the creation of ethical guidelines and regulations governing AI use in sustainable initiatives. Practitioners, including professionals working in environmental organizations or technology companies, will acquire practical knowledge to guide their decision-making and implementation of AI-driven solutions.

Global Industrial Impacts of Heavy Metal Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa

Global Industrial Impacts of Heavy Metal Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa PDF

Author: Nyika, Joan

Publisher: IGI Global

Published: 2023-08-07

Total Pages: 419

ISBN-13: 1668471183

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Sub-Saharan Africa is facing a significant environmental challenge with heavy metal pollution in its soil, which threatens industrialization, agricultural productivity, and natural ecosystems. However, the region's lack of preparedness, limited awareness, and insufficient data on soil pollution have hindered effective solutions. Global Industrial Impacts of Heavy Metal Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa, authored by experts Joan Nyika and Megersa Dinka, presents a compelling solution. Drawing on their expertise in hydro-biogeochemistry, water resource engineering, and bioremediation, the book delves into heavy metal chemistry, assessment methods, specific pollutants, and control approaches. It equips researchers, policymakers, and environmental regulators with the necessary knowledge and tools to address heavy metal pollution effectively. This groundbreaking book serves as a vital resource for understanding and combating heavy metal pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa. It provides valuable insights into the causes and consequences of soil contamination, offering practical guidance on assessment techniques, pollutant characterization, and strategies for control and prevention. By empowering scholars and decision-makers with this knowledge, the book sets the stage for sustainable development and environmental protection in the region. With its comprehensive approach and actionable solutions, this research fills a critical need. It emphasizes the importance of data-driven analysis and effective control measures, making it an indispensable tool for researchers, policymakers, and environmental regulators dedicated to safeguarding the region's ecosystems, industries, and agricultural systems from the detrimental effects of heavy metal pollution.