Unit 2 | MNGT 401 Notes | Introduction to Sustainable Development Notes | AKTU Notes


Unit 2 Introduction to Sustainable Development Notes | MNGT 401 Notes | AKTU Notes

Unit 2 Introduction to Sustainable Development Notes | MNGT 401 Notes | AKTU Notes










Fundamentals of ecology types of ecosystems & interrelationships:

Ecology Basics:

   - Ecology studies interactions between living organisms and their environment.

   - Levels of Study: Ecologists examine organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems.

   - Ecosystem Components: Ecosystems include organisms, communities, and abiotic factors (like water and minerals).

Types of Ecosystems:

   - Terrestrial Ecosystems:

       - Forests (tropical, temperate, boreal).

       - Grasslands (prairies, savannas).

       - Deserts (arid regions).

       - Mountains (altitude-dependent).

   - Aquatic Ecosystems:

       - Freshwater (lakes, rivers, wetlands).

       - Marine (oceans, coral reefs, estuaries).

Interrelationships:

   - Species Interactions:

       - Predation: One species hunts and consumes another.

       - Competition: Species compete for resources.

       - Mutualism: Both species benefit (e.g., pollination).

       - Commensalism: One benefits, the other is unaffected.

       - Amensalism: One harmed, the other unaffected.

Factors Influencing Sustainability of Ecosystems:

Biotic Factors:

   - Interactions Among Living Organisms:

     - Competition: Species compete for resources (food, space, mates).

     - Predation: Predator-prey relationships affect population dynamics.

     - Symbiosis: Mutualistic or parasitic interactions impact ecosystem balance.

Abiotic Factors:

   - Climate: Temperature, precipitation, sunlight influence ecosystem functioning.

   - Soil Quality: Nutrient availability, pH, organic matter affect plant growth.

   - Water Availability: Crucial for all life forms.

Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling:

   - Energy Flow: Producers (plants) capture sunlight energy, which flows through the food chain.

   - Nutrient Cycles: Recycling of essential elements (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus) maintains ecosystem health.

Community Dynamics:

   - Succession: Gradual change in species composition over time.

   - Biodiversity: Richness of species enhances ecosystem resilience.

Needs Of Present And Future Generation; Issues:

The needs of both present and future generations, along with associated issues:

Needs of Present Generation:

   - Basic Necessities: Access to clean water, food, shelter, and healthcare.

   - Education and Employment: Quality education and job opportunities.

   - Health and Well-being: Physical and mental health support.

   - Social Equity: Fair treatment, justice, and equal rights.

Needs of Future Generations:

   - Sustainable Environment: A planet with clean air, water, and healthy ecosystems.

   - Resource Preservation: Responsible use of non-renewable resources.

   - Climate Stewardship: Mitigating climate change impacts.

   - Technological Advancements: Innovations for future well-being.

Issues:

   - Overpopulation: Balancing population growth with resource availability.

   - Environmental Degradation: Pollution, deforestation, habitat loss.

   - Climate Change: Rising temperatures, extreme weather events.

   - Inequity: Disparities in access to resources and opportunities.

Food Security and Agriculture:

Sustainable Agriculture Practices:

- Crop Rotation: Alternating crops on the same land to maintain soil fertility and reduce pests.

- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Minimizing chemical pesticides by using natural predators and resistant crop varieties.

- Agroforestry: Combining trees with crops to enhance soil health and biodiversity.

Efficient Resource Use:

- Water: Implementing efficient irrigation methods (drip irrigation, sprinklers) to minimize water wastage.

- Fertilizers: Using organic and slow-release fertilizers to reduce nutrient runoff and soil degradation.

- Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources for farm operations.

Balancing Productivity and Environmental Impact:

- High-Yield Varieties: Developing crop varieties that yield more per unit of land.

- Conservation Tillage: Reducing soil erosion by minimizing plowing.

- Biodiversity: Preserving natural habitats within agricultural landscapes.

Renewable Resources (Water and Energy)

Water:

- Efficient Water Use:

    - Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting rainwater for irrigation.

    - Smart Irrigation Systems: Monitoring soil moisture and adjusting water delivery.

- Reducing Water Pollution:

    - Proper disposal of agricultural chemicals.

    - Protecting water bodies from contamination.

Energy:

- Transition to Renewables:

    - Solar: Installing solar panels for farm energy needs.

    - Wind: Utilizing wind turbines in suitable regions.

    - Hydropower: Harnessing water flow for electricity.

Non-Renewable Resources

Efficient Management:

- Minerals and Fossil Fuels:

    - Responsible extraction practices.

    - Recycling and reusing materials.

- Circular Economy:

    - Designing products for easy disassembly and recycling.

Remember, sustainable practices ensure a harmonious balance between human progress and environmental well-being.

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