Keskkonnamõisted

Keskkonnamõisted refers to environmental concepts or terms in Estonian. Understanding these concepts is crucial for discussing and addressing environmental issues effectively. Key environmental concepts include biodiversity, which encompasses the variety of life on Earth at all its levels, from genes to ecosystems, and its evolutionary, ecological, and cultural roles. Another important concept is sustainability, which refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This involves balancing economic, social, and environmental considerations.

Climate change is a widely recognized environmental concept, describing long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These shifts may be natural, but since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. Pollution, another significant concept, refers to the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment. This can affect air, water, and soil quality, with detrimental impacts on ecosystems and human health.

Ecosystems are a fundamental concept, referring to a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment. These systems are interconnected, and changes in one part can have ripple effects throughout. Resource depletion is the consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished, such as overfishing or deforestation. Renewable energy, derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed, such as solar, wind, and hydro power, offers a solution to resource depletion. Lastly, conservation, the protection and preservation of natural resources and habitats, is vital for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. These keskkonnamõisted form the basis for environmental science, policy, and action.