WHY IS PHYSICAL DIVERSITY IMPORTANT?

WHY IS PHYSICAL DIVERSITY IMPORTANT? Preserving physical diversity in Canada is important for both humans and nature. ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE SOCIAL AND CULTURAL IMPORTANCE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPORTANCE THE IMPORTANCE OF SUSTAINABILITY

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE We have always relied on the environment as a source of food, fresh water, shelter and energy. It is also an important factor in the development of Canada’s economy. Natural Resources Employment Tourism and Recreation

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL IMPORTANCE Non-material benefits from the environment: Spiritual and Religious Recreational and Ecotourism Inspirational Educational Sense of Place Cultural Heritage

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPORTANCE Healthy ecosystems: Protect and purify our water and air Form soils Absorb and break down pollutants Regulate the climate Maintain genetic diversity Support our complex food web Protect natural habitats

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPORTANCE Humans are affecting the health of our ecosystems by: Causing the extinction of a variety of species Wasting and polluting water and overworking soils Polluting our land, air and water by relying on fossil fuels Using our resources faster then they can be replaced

IMPORTANCE OF SUSTAINABILITY Sustainability means meeting the needs of the present generation without affecting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In a sustainable world, society’s demands on the physical environment are in balance with the ability of the natural systems to meet that demand. In the end, sustainability requires a balancing act between meeting our needs and wants, and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

ON THE BACK OF YOUR SHEET Write down TEN ways that you can do your part to reduce your negative impact on the environment.