FCS 5.02: Conserving Resources Review

Front

What is environmental degradation?

Back

Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the natural environment caused by using up natural resources.

Answer explanation

Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the natural environment due to the depletion of natural resources, making this choice the only accurate definition among the options provided.

Front

Which of the following is a major cause of environmental degradation?
Options:
Using renewable energy sources,
Recycling waste materials,
Overconsumption of natural resources,
Planting more trees

Back

Overconsumption of natural resources

Answer explanation

Overconsumption of natural resources leads to depletion and degradation of the environment, making it a major cause of environmental issues. In contrast, using renewable energy, recycling, and planting trees help mitigate these problems.

Front

How does deforestation contribute to environmental degradation?

Back

It leads to the loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.

Answer explanation

Deforestation leads to the loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction by removing trees that provide shelter and food for various species, disrupting ecosystems and contributing to environmental degradation.

Front

What role does pollution play in environmental degradation?

Back

Pollution contributes to the deterioration of air, water, and soil quality.

Answer explanation

Pollution significantly harms the environment by degrading air, water, and soil quality, leading to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. The correct choice highlights this critical impact.

Front

How is an ecological footprint calculated?

Back

An ecological footprint is calculated by measuring the total area required for resource consumption and waste absorption.

Answer explanation

An ecological footprint measures the total area needed for resource consumption and waste absorption, making it distinct from other options like weight or species count.

Front

Which of the following activities would lower the ecological footprint?
- Driving a personal car for short trips.
- Using single-use plastic bags.
- Eating more red meat and dairy products.
- Using public transportation instead of driving.

Back

Using public transportation instead of driving.

Answer explanation

Using public transportation instead of driving reduces the number of vehicles on the road, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller ecological footprint compared to driving a personal car.

Front

What is the impact of overfishing on marine ecosystems?

Back

Overfishing causes a decline in fish populations and disrupts marine ecosystems.

Answer explanation

Overfishing depletes fish populations, leading to imbalances in marine ecosystems. This disrupts food chains and can result in the decline of various marine species, highlighting the negative impact of overfishing.

Front

Which of the following practices can help reduce water pollution?
Disposing of plastic waste in oceans.
Implementing proper waste management systems.
Using chemical fertilizers excessively.
Dumping industrial waste into rivers.

Back

Implementing proper waste management systems.

Answer explanation

Implementing proper waste management systems helps ensure that waste is disposed of correctly, preventing it from entering water bodies and reducing pollution. The other options contribute to water pollution.

Front

How does urbanization contribute to environmental degradation?

Back

Urbanization increases pollution and reduces green spaces.

Answer explanation

Urbanization leads to increased pollution from vehicles and industries, while also reducing green spaces that are vital for absorbing carbon dioxide and supporting biodiversity, thus contributing to environmental degradation.

Front

Is lawn care harmful for the environment?

Back

Yes, lawn care can be harmful to the environment.

Answer explanation

Yes, lawn care can be harmful to the environment due to the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can contaminate soil and water, and the maintenance practices that may reduce natural habitats and biodiversity.