What is Environment?

The term “environment” refers to everything that surrounds us. It includes both living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components. The environment influences and shapes how we live, interact, and develop as individuals and societies.

• It consists of natural and human-made elements.
• It is dynamic and changes over time due to natural processes and human activities.

Components of the Environment:

1. Natural Environment:
   1. Includes natural elements like land, water, air, plants, and animals.
   2. Examples: Mountains, rivers, forests, and wildlife.
2. Human-Made Environment:
   1. Elements created by humans, such as buildings, roads, parks, and industries.
   2. Examples: Cities, dams, bridges, and vehicles.
3. Human Environment:
   1. Refers to the relationship between humans and their surroundings.
   2. Includes traditions, cultures, religions, and community interactions.

Natural Environment:

The natural environment includes all elements created by nature without human intervention.

1. Lithosphere (Land):
   1. The outermost solid layer of the Earth.
   2. Includes continents, islands, and ocean basins.
   3. Provides essential resources like soil, minerals, and forests.
2. Atmosphere (Air):
   1. The gaseous layer surrounding the Earth.
   2. Composed of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), and trace gases like carbon dioxide, argon, and water vapor.
   3. Regulates Earth’s temperature, supports life, and protects from harmful solar radiation.
3. Hydrosphere (Water):
   1. Includes all water bodies such as oceans, rivers, lakes, groundwater, and glaciers.
   2. Covers about 71% of Earth’s surface.
   3. Essential for drinking, agriculture, transportation, and supporting aquatic life.
4. Biosphere (Life):
   1. The zone where land, water, and air interact to support life.
   2. Includes all living organisms such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Human-Made Environment:

Human-made environments are created by humans to meet their needs and desires.

• Buildings, roads, bridges, parks, factories, and dams.
• Urban and rural settlements.

Humans modify the natural environment for their survival and development, but overexploitation can lead to environmental degradation.

Human Environment:

The human environment refers to the interaction of people with their surroundings. It includes:

• Traditions, cultures, and religions.
• Social and economic activities like agriculture, trade, and industry.

Humans have adapted to and modified their environment over time, shaping landscapes and ecosystems to suit their needs.

What is an Ecosystem?

An ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) with their non-living surroundings (land, water, and air).

Components of an Ecosystem:

1. Biotic (Living) Components:
   • Plants, animals, and microorganisms.
2. Abiotic (Non-Living) Components:
   • Soil, water, air, sunlight, and temperature.

Types of Ecosystems:

1. Natural Ecosystems: Forests, grasslands, deserts, and aquatic ecosystems like ponds and oceans.
2. Artificial Ecosystems: Gardens, aquariums, and agricultural fields.

Importance of Ecosystems:

• Maintain ecological balance.
• Provide oxygen, food, and water.
• Support biodiversity and nutrient recycling.

Natural vs. Human-Made Environment:

Interdependence of Humans and the Environment:

Humans depend on the environment for:

• Food, water, and shelter.
• Raw materials for industry.
• Aesthetic and cultural significance.

However, human activities like deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization impact the environment negatively, leading to pollution, climate change, and loss of biodiversity.

Key Environmental Concerns:

1. Deforestation:
   • Clearing forests for agriculture, industries, and urban expansion.
   • Leads to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.
2. Pollution:
   • Air, water, and soil pollution caused by industrial waste, chemicals, and plastic.
   • Affects human health and disrupts ecosystems.
3. Climate Change:
   • Caused by greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.
   • Leads to rising sea levels, extreme weather, and biodiversity loss.
4. Overexploitation of Resources:
   • Overuse of natural resources like water, forests, and minerals.
   • Depletes resources for future generations.

Conservation and Sustainable Development:

1. Reforestation and Afforestation:
   • Planting trees to restore forest cover.
2. Pollution Control:
   • Reducing waste, using renewable energy, and adopting eco-friendly practices.
3. Sustainable Development:
   • Balancing economic growth with environmental conservation.
   • Promoting responsible consumption and renewable resources.
4. Environmental Awareness:
   • Educating people about environmental issues and conservation.