Section 16.5 Conservation

Sustainable development manages resources for present and future generations Sustainable Development  a practice in which natural resources are used and managed in a way that meets current needs without hurting future generations The timber industry has started to practice sustainable use to ensure that the tree populations are maintained

Conservation practices focus on a few species but benefit entire ecosystems Umbrella Species  protection that includes a wide range of species in an ecosystem When one species is put on the endangered species list, it often helps with the protection of other species close to it

Protecting Earth’s resources helps protect our future Three important environmental laws: Clean Air Act – 1970 – helped to increase air quality across the nation because is regulates emissions from factories and cars Clean Water Act – 1972 – created regulations against pollution and has increased public awareness Endangered Species Act – 1973 – endangered animals have been able to come back from near extinction

Ways in which humans can protect the environment: Control population growth Develop technology to produce more food and produce less waste Change practices Maintain ecosystems