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  2. AP Environmental Science
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Intro to Sustainability

Liam Thomas

Liam Thomas

7 min read

Next Topic - Methods to Reduce Urban Runoff

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Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers environmental sustainability, including key factors like biological diversity, human population, resource consumption, and greenhouse gas concentrations. It explains sustainable yield and its relationship to resource replenishment and the Tragedy of the Commons. The guide connects these concepts and provides exam tips focusing on multiple-choice and free-response questions related to sustainability, yield, and the commons. Practice questions covering these topics are also included.

#AP Environmental Science: Sustainability Study Guide

Hey there, future environmental champion! Let's get you prepped for the AP exam with a super-focused review of sustainability. We'll break down the key concepts, make connections, and get you feeling confident. Let's do this!

#1. Environmental Sustainability: The Big Picture

Key Concept

Environmental sustainability is all about using resources wisely so that future generations can also enjoy them. Think of it as being a good steward of the planet.


Factors to consider for sustainability:

  • Biological Diversity: A rich variety of life helps ecosystems bounce back from stress.
  • Human Population Levels: More people means more resource use.
  • Resource Consumption: How much we use vs. how much the planet can regenerate.
  • Greenhouse Gas Concentrations (CO2, CH4): These gases trap heat and affect the climate.
  • Food Production: Ensuring we can feed everyone without harming the environment.

Environmental Sustainability


Image: A visual reminder that our actions today impact the future of our planet.


#2. Sustainable Yield: Harvesting Wisely

#What is Sustainable Yield?

  • Definition: The amount of a resource that can be harvested without reducing the base supply. It's like taking only the interest from a savings account, leaving the principal untouched.
  • Applies To: Timber, freshwater, fish populations, and crops.

#Factors Affecting Sustainable Yield

  • Resource's Rate of Replenishment: How quickly does the resource naturally renew itself?
  • Impact of Extraction: Does our harvesting damage the environment?
  • Demand for the Resource: Are we using more than the resource can provide?

Exam Tip

Remember, sustaina...

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Previous Topic - Ecological FootprintsNext Topic - Methods to Reduce Urban Runoff

Question 1 of 9

What is the core idea behind environmental sustainability? 🤔

Using resources without any limitations

Conserving resources for future generations while meeting current needs

Prioritizing economic growth at the expense of the environment

Focusing solely on the present without considering long-term impacts