IB Environmental systems and societies 7.1 Natural Resources - Uses and Management Key Definitions

Aesthetic value refers to the beauty and visual appeal of natural landscapes, which inspire art, photography, and personal reflection.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in an ecosystem, encompassing different levels of biological organization.

Bottom trawling is an industrial fishing method that drags heavy nets along the seabed, capturing bottom-dwelling species but causing severe damage to habitats and high bycatch rates.

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) and storing it in solid or liquid form.

Cultural value encompasses the tangible and intangible aspects of nature that shape traditions, languages, and knowledge systems.

Economic sustainability refers to the development of economic structures and systems that allow for the long-term production and consumption of goods and services in a way that meets human needs without depleting natural resources or causing irreversible environmental damage.

Economic value refers to the monetary worth of natural resources and the ecosystem services they provide.

Ecosystem services or intangible natural capital are nature’s "free services" that support life and human well-being.

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a critical tool for ensuring that development projects are sustainable and that their potential environmental, social, and economic impacts are fully considered before they are approved and implemented.

A fish stock refers to a population of a particular species of fish that is managed as a unit. It may include all individuals in a defined geographical area.

Food security is defined as the physical and economic availability of food, ensuring all individuals can access the balanced diet necessary for a healthy and active life.

Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases that absorb infrared radiation emitted from the Earth’s surface and re-radiate it back, contributing to atmospheric warming.

Health value refers to the benefits nature provides for human health, both physically and mentally.

Natural capital refers to the total stock of natural resources (both renewable and non-renewable) that provide ecosystem services benefiting humans and the environment.

Natural resources are materials and energy sources found in nature that humans use to meet their needs.

Non-renewable natural capital is a resource that exists in finite amounts and cannot be replenished within a human lifespan.

Renewable natural capital is a resource that regenerates naturally over time and provides ongoing benefits.

Resource security refers to the availability of natural resources in sufficient quantities to meet the needs of a population while ensuring long-term sustainability.

Technological value refers to the potential of natural resources to inspire innovations and advancements.

Transpiration is the release of water vapour by plants into the atmosphere.

VOCs are a diverse group of organic chemicals that easily vaporize into the atmosphere.