Ecosystem-based management

Definition

Ecosystem-based management is an integrated approach to managing natural resources that considers the entire ecosystem, including humans, rather than focusing solely on individual species or specific resources. This approach seeks to balance ecological health with human needs, ensuring sustainable use and conservation of ecosystems. It emphasizes the interconnectivity of species, habitats, and environmental processes while promoting adaptive management strategies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ecosystem-based management is crucial in the context of the Green Revolution, as it helps address the environmental degradation that resulted from intensified agricultural practices.
2. This management approach advocates for maintaining ecosystem services like pollination, water purification, and soil fertility, which are essential for sustainable agriculture.
3. Ecosystem-based management promotes collaboration among stakeholders, including farmers, scientists, and policymakers, to ensure that agricultural practices are ecologically sound.
4. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring and adapting management practices based on ecological feedback to improve resilience against pests, diseases, and climate variability.
5. By integrating ecological knowledge with agricultural techniques, ecosystem-based management aims to reduce reliance on chemical inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.

Review Questions

• How does ecosystem-based management differ from traditional resource management approaches?
  • Ecosystem-based management differs from traditional resource management by emphasizing a holistic view that considers entire ecosystems rather than focusing solely on individual resources or species. Traditional methods often prioritize short-term gains and specific commodities, potentially leading to ecological imbalance. In contrast, ecosystem-based management seeks to balance human needs with ecological integrity, promoting sustainable practices that support the health of the ecosystem as a whole.
• What role does ecosystem-based management play in mitigating the environmental impacts of agricultural intensification during the Green Revolution?
  • Ecosystem-based management plays a vital role in mitigating environmental impacts by addressing issues like soil degradation, water scarcity, and loss of biodiversity that emerged during the Green Revolution. By promoting practices such as crop rotation, integrated pest management, and organic farming, this approach helps maintain ecosystem services crucial for sustainable agriculture. It encourages farmers to adopt methods that enhance soil health and water conservation while reducing dependence on synthetic chemicals.
• Evaluate how the principles of ecosystem-based management can inform future agricultural policies in light of climate change challenges.
  • The principles of ecosystem-based management can significantly inform future agricultural policies by promoting adaptive strategies that enhance resilience to climate change. By incorporating ecological data into policy-making, such as understanding species interactions and habitat requirements, policies can be designed to support sustainable land use practices that withstand climate stressors. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders ensures that agricultural systems are not only productive but also environmentally sustainable, thus securing food sources while preserving vital ecosystems for future generations.

Related terms

Sustainable Agriculture: Farming practices that prioritize environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity, often incorporating techniques that reduce environmental impact.

Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular ecosystem or on Earth as a whole, including the diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystem diversity.

Climate Resilience: The ability of a system to withstand and recover from climate-related stresses and shocks while maintaining essential functions.