Results for "water security"
Ecosystems Encyclopedia Entry 1776335525
** Ecosystems are complex networks of living organisms and non-living components that interact and depend on each other in a specific environment, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. **CONTENT:** ### Overview An **ecosystem** is a dynamic and interconnected web of living and non-living components that function together to create a unique and self-sustaining environment. Ecosystems can range from small, localized systems like a forest or a coral reef to vast, global systems like the atmosphere or the ocean. The key characteristics of an ecosystem include the presence of **biodiversity**, which refers to the variety of different species and their interactions, as well as the cycling of **nutrients** and the flow of **energy** through the system. Ecosystems are often classified into different types, including terrestrial ecosystems like forests, grasslands, and deserts, and aquatic ecosystems like oceans, lakes, and rivers. Each ecosystem has its unique set of plants, animals, and microorganisms that are adapted to the specific conditions and resources available. For example, a coral reef ecosystem is characterized by the presence of coral polyps, fish, and other marine animals that are dependent on the coral's ability to provide a habitat and food source. The functioning of an ecosystem is influenced by a variety of factors, including climate, geology, and human activities. Changes to these factors can have significant impacts on the ecosystem, leading to shifts in the distribution and abundance of species, changes in the cycling of nutrients, and even the collapse of the ecosystem itself. ### History/Background The concept of ecosystems has been studied and described by scientists for centuries, with early work by naturalists like **Aristotle** and **Charles Darwin** laying the foundation for modern ecological theory. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that the term "ecosystem" was first coined by **Arthur Tansley**, a British ecologist who recognized the importance of understanding the interactions between living and non-living components in the natural world. Since then, the study of ecosystems has become a major focus of ecological research, with scientists using a variety of methods, including field observations, experiments, and modeling, to understand the complex dynamics of ecosystems. Key milestones in the development of ecosystem science include the publication of **Eugene Odum's** "Fundamentals of Ecology" in 1953, which provided a comprehensive overview of ecosystem theory, and the establishment of the **International Society for Ecological Economics** in 1986, which brought together scientists and policymakers to address the economic and social implications of ecosystem management. ### Key Information Some of the key facts and figures about ecosystems include: * **Biodiversity**: Ecosystems support a vast array of different species, with estimates suggesting that there are between 8.7 and 30 million species on Earth. * **Nutrient cycling**: Ecosystems play a critical role in the cycling of nutrients, with plants, animals, and microorganisms working together to convert nutrients from one form to another. * **Energy flow**: Ecosystems are characterized by the flow of energy from one trophic level to the next, with producers like plants and algae converting sunlight into chemical energy, which is then consumed by herbivores, carnivores, and decomposers. * **Ecosystem services**: Ecosystems provide a wide range of services, including air and water filtration, soil formation, and climate regulation. ### Significance Ecosystems are essential for human well-being, providing a wide range of benefits, including: * **Food security**: Ecosystems support the production of food, fiber, and other essential resources. * **Water security**: Ecosystems play a critical role in the cycling and filtration of water, ensuring that it is available for human consumption and other uses. * **Climate regulation**: Ecosystems help to regulate the climate by storing carbon, moderating temperature fluctuations, and influencing weather patterns. * **Recreation and tourism**: Ecosystems provide opportunities for recreation, tourism, and other economic activities. INFOBOX: - **Name:** Ecosystems - **Type:** Ecological system - **Date:** Ancient (first described by Aristotle) - **Location:** Global - **Known For:** Supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance TAGS: **ecosystem, biodiversity, nutrient cycling, energy flow, ecosystem services, food security, water security, climate regulation, recreation, tourism**
Nature & EnvironmentEcosystems Encyclopedia Entry 1780496165
An **ecosystem** is a complex network of living organisms and non-living components that interact and depend on each other in a specific environment.
Nature & EnvironmentEcosystems Encyclopedia Entry 1782210509
** Ecosystems are complex networks of living organisms and non-living components that interact and depend on each other in a specific environment, maintaining balance and supporting life on Earth. **CONTENT:** ### Overview An **ecosystem** is a dynamic and interconnected network of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and non-living components (air, water, soil, and sunlight) that interact and depend on each other in a specific environment. Ecosystems can range from small, localized systems like a pond or a coral reef to vast, global systems like forests, grasslands, or deserts. The interactions within an ecosystem are governed by the principles of **ecology**, which studies the relationships between living organisms and their environment. Ecosystems are characterized by their unique **biotic** and **abiotic** components. Biotic components include plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, while abiotic components include water, soil, sunlight, and air. The interactions between these components create a complex web of relationships, where each species plays a vital role in maintaining the balance and function of the ecosystem. For example, plants provide food and shelter for animals, while animals help to disperse seeds and pollinate plants. Ecosystems are not static entities; they are constantly changing due to natural processes like weather patterns, seasonal changes, and geological events. Human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change, can also alter ecosystems, leading to **biodiversity loss**, **extinction**, and **ecosystem degradation**. ### History/Background The concept of ecosystems has been studied and described by scientists and philosophers for centuries. The ancient Greek philosopher **Aristotle** (384-322 BCE) recognized the importance of the natural environment in supporting life, while the Swedish botanist **Carl Linnaeus** (1707-1778) developed the system of classification that is still used today to identify and categorize living organisms. In the 19th century, the German biologist **Erich von Tschermak** (1871-1962) coined the term "ecosystem" to describe the interactions between living organisms and their environment. The modern study of ecology as a scientific discipline began to take shape in the early 20th century, with the work of scientists like **Charles Elton** (1900-1991) and **G. Evelyn Hutchinson** (1903-1991). ### Key Information Ecosystems are characterized by their unique properties, including: * **Biodiversity**: the variety of species and their interactions within an ecosystem * **Energy flow**: the transfer of energy from one trophic level to another through food webs * **Nutrient cycling**: the movement of nutrients through the ecosystem, from producers to consumers and back to producers * **Succession**: the process of change and development within an ecosystem over time Ecosystems can be classified into different types, including: * **Terrestrial ecosystems**: forests, grasslands, deserts, and tundras * **Freshwater ecosystems**: rivers, lakes, and wetlands * **Marine ecosystems**: coral reefs, estuaries, and open ocean * **Atmospheric ecosystems**: the interactions between the atmosphere and living organisms ### Significance Ecosystems are essential for supporting life on Earth, providing: * **Food and water**: ecosystems produce the food and water that humans and other organisms need to survive * **Shelter and habitat**: ecosystems provide shelter and habitat for a vast array of species * **Climate regulation**: ecosystems help to regulate the climate by storing carbon, moderating temperature, and influencing weather patterns * **Medicine and resources**: ecosystems provide a wealth of medicines, materials, and resources that are essential for human well-being **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Ecosystems - **Type:** Ecological systems - **Date:** Ancient Greek philosophy (Aristotle, 384-322 BCE) - **Location:** Global, from small localized systems to vast global systems - **Known For:** Supporting life on Earth, regulating the climate, and providing food, water, shelter, and resources **TAGS:** ecosystems, ecology, biodiversity, energy flow, nutrient cycling, succession, terrestrial ecosystems, freshwater ecosystems, marine ecosystems, atmospheric ecosystems, climate regulation, food security, water security, shelter, habitat, medicine, resources.
Nature & EnvironmentClimate Encyclopedia Entry 1779876026
** Climate refers to the long-term atmospheric conditions in a particular region, including temperature, humidity, cloudiness, wind, precipitation, and other meteorological elements that determine the weather patterns and the overall environment of an area. **CONTENT:** ### Overview Climate is a vital component of the Earth's system, influencing the distribution of life, the formation of landscapes, and the functioning of ecosystems. It is a complex and dynamic phenomenon, shaped by the interaction of various factors, including the sun's energy, the Earth's rotation, the movement of the atmosphere, and the oceans. Climate varies significantly across the globe, ranging from the scorching deserts to the icy tundras, and from the tropical rainforests to the arctic regions. Understanding climate is essential for predicting weather patterns, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and conserving natural resources. Climate is often confused with weather, which refers to short-term atmospheric conditions. While weather is a snapshot of the current conditions, climate is a long-term average of weather patterns over a specific period. Climate is also distinct from **microclimate**, which refers to the local conditions within a small area, such as a valley or a forest. ### History/Background The study of climate dates back to ancient civilizations, where people observed and recorded changes in the weather and their impacts on agriculture and human settlements. The Greek philosopher Aristotle (384-322 BCE) was one of the first to write about climate, describing the differences between the temperate and tropical regions. In the 18th century, scientists such as Pierre-Simon Laplace and William Herschel began to study the Earth's climate, recognizing the importance of solar radiation and the Earth's rotation in shaping the climate. In the 20th century, the study of climate gained momentum, with the development of new technologies and the recognition of the impact of human activities on the climate. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established in 1988 to assess the science and impacts of climate change, and to provide guidance for policymakers. The IPCC's reports have played a crucial role in raising awareness about climate change and its consequences. ### Key Information Climate is characterized by several key factors, including: * **Temperature**: The average temperature of an area over a specific period, ranging from -50°C to 50°C (-58°F to 122°F). * **Precipitation**: The amount of water that falls to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail. * **Humidity**: The amount of water vapor in the air, which affects the climate's temperature and precipitation patterns. * **Wind**: The movement of air, which influences the climate's temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns. * **Cloudiness**: The amount of cloud cover, which affects the climate's temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns. Climate change refers to the long-term warming of the Earth's climate, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and land-use changes. The consequences of climate change include: * **Rising sea levels**: The melting of glaciers and ice sheets, leading to sea-level rise and coastal flooding. * **Extreme weather events**: Increased frequency and severity of heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms. * **Water scarcity**: Changes in precipitation patterns and increased evaporation, leading to water shortages and droughts. * **Loss of biodiversity**: Climate change affects the distribution and abundance of plants and animals, leading to extinctions and ecosystem disruptions. ### Significance Climate is a critical component of the Earth's system, influencing the distribution of life, the formation of landscapes, and the functioning of ecosystems. Understanding climate is essential for predicting weather patterns, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and conserving natural resources. Climate change poses significant threats to human societies, including: * **Food security**: Climate change affects agriculture, leading to crop failures, reduced yields, and food shortages. * **Water security**: Climate change affects water availability, leading to droughts, floods, and water scarcity. * **Human health**: Climate change increases the spread of diseases, heat stress, and other health problems. * **Economic stability**: Climate change affects economic systems, leading to losses, damages, and instability. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Climate - **Type:** Atmospheric condition - **Date:** Ancient civilizations (3000 BCE) - **Location:** Global - **Known For:** Long-term atmospheric conditions, climate change, and its impacts on the environment and human societies. **TAGS:** Climate change, weather, microclimate, temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, cloudiness, global warming, sea-level rise, extreme weather events, water scarcity, loss of biodiversity, food security, water security, human health, economic stability.
Nature & EnvironmentEcosystems Encyclopedia Entry 1779183664
** Ecosystems are complex networks of living organisms and their physical environment that interact and depend on each other for survival, forming the foundation of life on Earth. **CONTENT:** ### Overview An **ecosystem** is a dynamic and interconnected system consisting of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and their physical environment (air, water, soil, and sunlight). These components interact and depend on each other for survival, forming a delicate balance that sustains life on Earth. Ecosystems can be found in various forms, including forests, grasslands, deserts, oceans, and even urban areas. Each ecosystem has its unique characteristics, such as climate, geology, and biodiversity, which shape the interactions between organisms and their environment. Ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet. They provide essential services, including air and water purification, soil formation, and climate regulation. Ecosystems also support a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are still unknown to science. The loss of biodiversity and ecosystem disruption can have severe consequences, including reduced ecosystem services, increased vulnerability to climate change, and decreased human well-being. ### History/Background The concept of ecosystems has been studied and understood for centuries. Ancient Greek philosophers, such as Aristotle and Theophrastus, recognized the interconnectedness of living organisms and their environment. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the term "ecosystem" was coined by British ecologist Arthur Tansley in 1935. Tansley's work laid the foundation for modern ecosystem science, which has since become a vital field of study in ecology, biology, and environmental science. ### Key Information Ecosystems can be classified into different types based on their characteristics, such as: * **Terrestrial ecosystems**: forests, grasslands, deserts, and tundra * **Freshwater ecosystems**: rivers, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater * **Marine ecosystems**: oceans, coral reefs, estuaries, and coastal areas * **Atmospheric ecosystems**: the atmosphere and its interactions with living organisms Ecosystems are also characterized by their **trophic structure**, which refers to the feeding relationships between organisms. The three main trophic levels are: * **Producers** (plants and algae): convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis * **Consumers** (herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores): obtain energy by consuming other organisms * **Decomposers** (microorganisms and fungi): break down dead organic matter into nutrients ### Significance Ecosystems are essential for human well-being and the health of our planet. They provide: * **Food security**: ecosystems support agriculture, fisheries, and other food sources * **Water security**: ecosystems regulate water cycles and provide clean water * **Climate regulation**: ecosystems help mitigate climate change by storing carbon and regulating weather patterns * **Biodiversity**: ecosystems support a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which have yet to be discovered The loss of ecosystems and biodiversity can have severe consequences, including: * **Climate change**: ecosystem disruption can lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and climate change * **Water scarcity**: ecosystem degradation can lead to reduced water availability and quality * **Food insecurity**: ecosystem loss can lead to reduced food production and availability **INFOBOX:** - Name: Ecosystems - Type: Ecological system - Date: 1935 (coined by Arthur Tansley) - Location: Global - Known For: Supporting life on Earth and providing essential services **TAGS:** ecosystems, ecology, biodiversity, climate change, water security, food security, conservation, environmental science, biology.
Nature & EnvironmentEcosystems Encyclopedia Entry 1777560376
** An **ecosystem** is a complex network of living organisms and non-living components that interact and depend on each other in a specific environment, working together to maintain a delicate balance of nature. **CONTENT:** ### Overview An **ecosystem** is a dynamic and interconnected web of living organisms, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as non-living components such as air, water, soil, and sunlight. These components interact and depend on each other to create a self-sustaining system that supports life on Earth. Ecosystems can range from small, localized areas like a forest or a coral reef to vast, global systems like the atmosphere or the oceans. The interactions within an ecosystem are governed by the principles of **ecology**, which seeks to understand the relationships between living organisms and their environment. Ecosystems are characterized by their unique **biotic** and **abiotic** components. Biotic components include the living organisms that inhabit an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. Abiotic components include non-living elements like air, water, soil, and sunlight. The interactions between these components create a complex network of relationships that maintain the balance of nature. For example, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis, which supports the growth of other organisms and maintains the balance of the atmosphere. Ecosystems are also dynamic and constantly changing due to factors like climate change, human activities, and natural disturbances like fires and floods. These changes can have significant impacts on the balance of nature and the organisms that depend on it. Understanding ecosystems is crucial for managing and conserving natural resources, mitigating the effects of climate change, and promoting sustainable development. ### History/Background The concept of ecosystems has been studied for centuries, with early philosophers and scientists recognizing the interconnectedness of living organisms and their environment. In the 19th century, the term "ecosystem" was first coined by British scientist **Arthur Tansley**, who described it as a "complex of living and lifeless components." Since then, the study of ecosystems has evolved into a distinct field of science, with researchers using a range of techniques, including field observations, experiments, and modeling, to understand the complex interactions within ecosystems. Key dates in the history of ecosystem science include: * 1869: **Charles Darwin** publishes "On the Origin of Species," which lays the foundation for modern ecology. * 1935: **Arthur Tansley** coins the term "ecosystem." * 1960s: The development of **systems ecology** and **ecosystem theory** provides a framework for understanding the complex interactions within ecosystems. * 1970s: The concept of **ecosystem services** emerges, highlighting the importance of ecosystems in providing benefits like clean air and water, food, and climate regulation. ### Key Information Some of the key facts and achievements in the study of ecosystems include: * **Biodiversity**: Ecosystems support a vast array of plant and animal species, with estimates suggesting that there are between 8.7 and 30 million species on Earth. * **Ecological processes**: Ecosystems are governed by a range of ecological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and nutrient cycling. * **Ecosystem services**: Ecosystems provide a range of services, including clean air and water, food, climate regulation, and soil formation. * **Conservation**: The loss of biodiversity and ecosystem degradation are major conservation concerns, with efforts underway to protect and restore ecosystems like forests, coral reefs, and wetlands. ### Significance Ecosystems are crucial for maintaining the balance of nature and supporting life on Earth. The loss of biodiversity and ecosystem degradation can have significant impacts on human well-being, including: * **Climate change**: Ecosystems play a critical role in regulating the climate, with forests, oceans, and other ecosystems absorbing and storing carbon dioxide. * **Food security**: Ecosystems provide the basis for agriculture, with crops and livestock relying on ecosystem services like pollination and pest control. * **Water security**: Ecosystems help regulate the water cycle, with forests and wetlands playing a critical role in maintaining water quality and supply. * **Human health**: Ecosystems provide a range of health benefits, including clean air and water, and opportunities for recreation and physical activity. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Ecosystems - Type: Ecological system - Date: 1935 (coined by Arthur Tansley) - Location: Global - Known For: Complex network of living and non-living components that interact and depend on each other. **TAGS:** ecosystems, ecology, biodiversity, ecological processes, ecosystem services, conservation, climate change, food security, water security, human health, Arthur Tansley, systems ecology, ecosystem theory.
Nature & EnvironmentClimate Encyclopedia Entry 1780450144
** Climate refers to the long-term atmospheric conditions in a particular region, including temperature, humidity, cloudiness, wind, precipitation, and other meteorological elements that influence the environment and living organisms. **CONTENT:** ### Overview Climate is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that shapes the Earth's ecosystems, weather patterns, and human societies. It is a key factor in determining the distribution and abundance of plants and animals, as well as the availability of water, food, and other essential resources. Climate is often described as the average weather conditions over a long period, typically 30 years or more, but it can also be influenced by shorter-term weather events and natural fluctuations. The study of climate, known as climatology, involves the analysis of atmospheric conditions, including temperature, humidity, and atmospheric circulation patterns. Climate scientists use a range of methods, including observations, computer modeling, and statistical analysis, to understand and predict climate patterns. Understanding climate is essential for mitigating the impacts of climate change, which is one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century. Climate is not static and has varied significantly over Earth's history, with changes in the planet's orbit, volcanic eruptions, and human activities all contributing to shifts in climate patterns. The current climate is characterized by a warming trend, with rising global temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall. ### History/Background The study of climate dates back to ancient civilizations, with early observations of weather patterns and climate variability recorded in ancient texts and artifacts. However, the modern scientific study of climate began in the 19th century, with the work of scientists such as Joseph Fourier and Svante Arrhenius, who recognized the importance of atmospheric carbon dioxide in regulating Earth's temperature. In the 20th century, the development of computer modeling and satellite remote sensing enabled scientists to study climate patterns in greater detail and predict future changes. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established in 1988 to provide a scientific basis for climate policy and decision-making. The IPCC's reports have played a crucial role in raising awareness of climate change and its impacts, and have informed international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. ### Key Information * **Temperature:** The average global temperature has risen by about 1°C since the late 19th century, with the last decade being the warmest on record. * **Carbon dioxide:** Concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide have increased by about 40% since the Industrial Revolution, primarily due to fossil fuel burning and land use changes. * **Sea level rise:** Global sea levels have risen by about 15-20 cm since 1900, with an accelerating trend in recent decades. * **Extreme weather events:** The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall, have increased in recent decades. * **Climate zones:** The Earth's climate is divided into several zones, including tropical, subtropical, temperate, and polar regions. ### Significance Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century, with far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, human health, and the economy. The significance of climate change lies in its potential to: * **Disrupt ecosystems:** Climate change can alter the distribution and abundance of plants and animals, leading to extinctions and changes in ecosystem function. * **Affect human health:** Climate change can increase the spread of diseases, heat stress, and other health problems. * **Impacts on food and water security:** Climate change can reduce crop yields, alter water availability, and increase the risk of food and water scarcity. * **Economic impacts:** Climate change can lead to significant economic losses, particularly in industries such as agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Climate - Type: Atmospheric condition - Date: 1780450144 (approximate date of first scientific study of climate) - Location: Global - Known For: Regulating Earth's temperature and influencing ecosystems and human societies. **TAGS:** climate change, global warming, atmospheric science, climatology, weather patterns, ecosystems, human health, food security, water security, economic impacts.
Nature & EnvironmentEcosystems Encyclopedia Entry 1781582167
** Ecosystems are complex networks of living organisms and their physical environment, interacting and interdependent in a delicate balance that sustains life on Earth. **CONTENT:** ### Overview Ecosystems are the fundamental building blocks of our planet, comprising the intricate relationships between living organisms, such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, and their physical environment, including air, water, soil, and sunlight. These complex networks are essential for maintaining the balance of nature, regulating the climate, and providing essential resources for human life. Ecosystems can be found in various forms, from the smallest microorganisms in a drop of water to the vast expanses of tropical rainforests and coral reefs. The concept of ecosystems has been studied and understood by humans for centuries, with ancient civilizations recognizing the interconnectedness of living and non-living components. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that the term "ecosystem" was coined by British scientist Arthur Tansley in 1935. Since then, the study of ecosystems has become a vital field of research, driving our understanding of the natural world and informing conservation efforts. Ecosystems are dynamic and constantly changing, with processes such as nutrient cycling, decomposition, and primary production occurring simultaneously. These processes are influenced by various factors, including climate, topography, and human activities, which can have significant impacts on ecosystem function and resilience. ### History/Background The study of ecosystems has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, with thinkers such as Aristotle and Plato recognizing the interconnectedness of living and non-living components. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the concept of ecosystems began to take shape. British scientist Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection (1859) laid the foundation for understanding the diversity of life on Earth, while American ecologist Frederic Clements' work on plant succession (1916) provided insights into the dynamics of ecosystem development. The 20th century saw significant advances in ecosystem research, with the development of new methodologies and theories. The concept of **biodiversity**, introduced by biologist E.O. Wilson (1988), highlighted the importance of preserving the variety of life on Earth. The **ecosystem services** framework, developed by economists and ecologists (2005), recognized the economic value of ecosystem functions and services. ### Key Information Ecosystems can be classified into various types, including: * **Terrestrial ecosystems**: forests, grasslands, deserts, and tundras * **Freshwater ecosystems**: rivers, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater * **Marine ecosystems**: coral reefs, estuaries, and open ocean * **Atmospheric ecosystems**: the atmosphere and its interactions with living organisms Key characteristics of ecosystems include: * **Biodiversity**: the variety of species and their interactions * **Primary production**: the conversion of sunlight into organic matter * **Nutrient cycling**: the movement of nutrients through ecosystems * **Decomposition**: the breakdown of organic matter ### Significance Ecosystems play a critical role in maintaining the health of our planet, providing essential resources for human life, and regulating the climate. The loss of ecosystem function and biodiversity can have significant impacts on human well-being, including: * **Climate change**: ecosystems help regulate the climate by storing carbon, moderating temperature, and influencing weather patterns * **Water security**: ecosystems provide essential water resources, including freshwater and groundwater * **Food security**: ecosystems support agriculture, fisheries, and other food sources * **Human health**: ecosystems provide essential ecosystem services, including air and water purification, and disease regulation INFOBOX: - **Name:** Ecosystems - **Type:** Ecological systems - **Date:** 1935 (coined by Arthur Tansley) - **Location:** Global - **Known For:** Maintaining the balance of nature, regulating the climate, and providing essential resources for human life TAGS: ecosystems, ecology, biodiversity, ecosystem services, climate change, water security, food security, human health, conservation, sustainability.