Resources and Ecosystems
Definition
Ecosystem
A community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.
Natural Resources
Digital technologies rely heavily on natural resources for their production and operation. These resources can be classified into two categories:
- Renewable Resources: Resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy, wind, and water.
- Non-renewable Resources: Resources that are finite and cannot be replenished once depleted, such as fossil fuels and minerals.
- The digital divide highlights the unequal access to digital technologies and resources between wealthier and poorer nations.
- Wealthier countries often consume more resources and generate more waste.
- Poorer countries bear the environmental and social costs of resource extraction and waste disposal.
Ecosystems and Biodiversity
- Ecosystems are under threat from human activities, including the production and use of digital technologies.
- However, these technologies can also play a role in protecting ecosystems and biodiversity.
Definition
Biodiversity
The diversity of living organisms living in a biological environment.
Threats to Ecosystems
- Deforestation: The demand for resources like timber and land for agriculture leads to deforestation, which destroys habitats and reduces biodiversity.
- Pollution: The production and disposal of digital devices contribute to air, water, and soil pollution, harming ecosystems and wildlife.
- How do digital technologies contribute to the depletion of natural resources?
- In what ways can digital technologies help protect ecosystems and biodiversity?
- How could digital technologies be used to predict and respond to natural disasters?
To what extent should corporations be held accountable for the environmental and social impacts of their supply chains?
