MYP Individuals & Societies Human Impacts on Natural Environments Key Definitions

Outdoor air pollution caused by substances such as particulate matter and gases released from activities like transport, industry, and power generation.

Large and unpredictable changes in the price of primary goods (such as oil, metals, or crops) over time.

Planned actions that protect, restore, and manage natural environments and biodiversity to ensure ecosystems can function over the long term.

A change in how land is used or managed by people, for example, converting forest to farmland, grassland to plantations, or rural land to urban built-up areas.

Fine particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or smaller, often produced by combustion (for example from vehicles, power plants, and some industrial processes), which can be inhaled deep into the lungs.

The efficiency with which inputs (such as labour, capital, land, and technology) are converted into outputs (goods and services). It is often measured as output per worker or output per hour.

The reduction in the quantity or quality of natural resources because extraction or use happens faster than natural replenishment (for renewable resources) or because a finite stock is being consumed (for non-renewable resources).

Managing natural resources so extraction or use does not exceed the environment’s ability to regenerate and maintain ecosystem functions.

A condition where traffic demand exceeds road capacity, causing slow speeds, delays, and increased vehicle idling.