All Flashcards
Individual Gain vs. Collective Loss?
Individuals benefit from exploiting a resource, but negative consequences are shared.
How does the Tragedy of the Commons relate to sustainability?
Highlights the challenges of sustainable resource use when individual interests conflict with collective well-being.
Why is the Tragedy of the Commons important in environmental science?
It explains many environmental issues, from overfishing to pollution, and the need for resource management.
Define Tragedy of the Commons.
Depletion of a shared resource by individuals acting in self-interest, even when it harms everyone long-term.
What is a common resource?
A resource available to everyone, like air, water, or public lands.
Define overexploitation.
Using a resource faster than it can replenish, leading to depletion or degradation.
What is privatization?
Dividing a common resource into individual ownership.
Define fishing quotas.
Limits on the amount of fish that can be caught.
What are marine preserves?
Protected areas in the ocean where fishing and other activities are restricted.
What is the tragedy of the commons?
A situation where shared resources are depleted due to individual self-interest.
Define 'common resource'.
A resource available to all, such as air, water, or public lands.
What is 'overexploitation'?
Using a resource faster than it can replenish itself.
Define 'privatization' in resource management.
Dividing a common resource into individual ownership.
Cause & Effect: Overfishing?
Depletes fish populations, disrupts marine ecosystems, and harms economies dependent on fishing.
Cause & Effect: Air pollution from emissions?
Causes respiratory problems, acid rain, and climate change.
Cause & Effect: Overuse of freshwater?
Leads to water scarcity, ecosystem damage, and conflicts over water resources.
Cause & Effect: Degradation of public lands?
Results in soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and reduced recreational opportunities.