Human Impact Vocabulary List

The process of cutting down and clearing away trees in a forested area, often leading to habitat loss and environmental damage.

The gradual increase in the Earth's average temperature due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

The presence of too many people in a given area, leading to strain on resources and the environment.

A type of precipitation that is unusually acidic, often caused by pollutants in the atmosphere, particularly sulfur and nitrogen oxides.

The rare species that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance, often maintaining the structure of its ecosystem.

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem, encompassing species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

A term referring to species that are not native to a particular ecosystem and whose introduction can cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health.

A sustainable method of raising aquatic animals and plants in controlled environments, often for the purpose of food production.

A class of compounds that contain chlorine and are known to deplete the ozone layer, often found in some refrigerants and aerosol propellants.

The gradual thinning of the ozone layer in the Earth's stratosphere, which increases exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation.

A type of pollution characterized by a mixture of smoke, fog, and chemical pollutants, often seen in urban areas and associated with respiratory issues.

A persistent pesticide that was widely used and is now banned in many countries due to its harmful effects on wildlife and humans.

A resource that can be replenished naturally over time and can be used sustainably without depleting its availability. Examples are wind and solar energy. 

A resource that does not replenish at a sustainable rate compared to its consumption, often leading to depletion over time. Examples are fossil fuels such as crude oil or coal.

The variety of different ecosystems that exist within a certain location or across the planet, reflecting how different biological communities interact with their environment.