key term - Human Impacts on Biodiversity

Definition

Human impacts on biodiversity refer to the negative effects that human activities have on the variety and abundance of living organisms in ecosystems. These impacts include habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation, and climate change.

Related terms

Deforestation:

The clearing or removal of trees from an area, leading to habitat loss and reduced biodiversity.

Pollution:

The introduction of harmful substances into the environment that can harm or kill organisms.

Overexploitation:

The excessive use or harvesting of natural resources beyond their sustainable limits, often leading to declines in population sizes or even extinction.