DEFORESTATIONForests still cover about 30% of earth but

patches the size of Panama are lost each yearAt current rate, rainforests could disappear

within 100 yrsAgriculture – major reason for clearing of forests

– provide more room for crops or livestockLogging – another major cause of deforestationWildfires, overgrazing of livestock also causesLoss of habitat for millions of speciesDrives climate change

Pollution Pollution is any waste product that damages

an ecosystem.Pollution is caused by chemicals in water and

in the air. Chemicals used on crops and lawns runoff into

rivers, and lakes.Burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and gas.

Pollution causes acid rain.

Acid Rain: What is the pH of rain?Pure water has a pH of 7 – neutral (neither an

acid nor a base)Normal precipitation is slightly acidic (5.6)

because carbon dioxide in the air mixes with rain water to form a weak acid called carbonic acid.

So what does acid rain damage in plants look like?

ConservationWe can help by

saving non-renewable resources like natural gas and coal.

Reusing and recycling plastics, glass and paper saves resources.

Reclamation and RestorationCleaning and

restoring damaged ecosystem.

Is expensive and time consuming.

Requires the removing of pollutants for ecosystems.

HomeworkResearch one of the organizations on this

powerpoint and explain how they help protect ecosystems. The Nature ConservancyThe Sierra ClubConservation InternationalGreenpeaceWWF – The World Wildlife Fund

Identify one organization that helps protect your ecosystem.