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Books > Science & Mathematics > Biology, life sciences > Life sciences: general issues > Ecological science, the Biosphere
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Ecosystems and Human Well-Being: Current State and Trends - Findings of the Condition and Trends Working Group (Paperback)
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Ecosystems and Human Well-Being: Current State and Trends - Findings of the Condition and Trends Working Group (Paperback)
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Humans have changed ecosystems more rapidly and extensively in the
last 50 years than in any comparable period of human history. We
have done this to meet the growing demands for food, fresh water,
timber, fiber, and fuel. While changes to ecosystems have enhanced
the well-being of billions of people, they have also caused a
substantial and largely irreversible loss in diversity of life on
Earth, and have strained the capacity of ecosystems to continue
providing critical services.
Among the findings:
Approximately 60% of the services that support life on Earth are
being degraded or used unsustainably. The harmful consequences of
this degradation could grow significantly worse in the next 50
years.
Only four ecosystem services have been enhanced in the last 50
years: crops, livestock, aquaculture, and the sequestration of
carbon.
The capacity of ecosystems to neutralize pollutants, protect us
from natural disasters, and control the outbreaks of pests and
diseases is declining significantly.
Terrestrial and freshwater systems are reaching the limits of their
ability to absorb nitrogen.
Harvesting of fish and other resources from coastal and marine
systems is compromising their ability to deliver food in the
future.
Richly illustrated with maps and graphs, Current State and Trends
presents an assessment of Earth's ability to provide twenty-four
distinct services essential to human well-being. These include
food, fiber, and other materials; the regulation of the climate and
fresh water systems; underlying support systems such as nutrient
cycling; and the fulfillment of cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic
values. The volume pays particular attention to the current
healthof key ecosystems, including inland waters, forests, oceans,
croplands, and dryland systems, among others. It will be an
indispensable reference for scientists, environmentalists, agency
professionals, and students.
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