Urban ecology - what is the ecosystem.pptx

This presentation is an introduction to the urban environment, discussing the meaning of urban ecosystem and how it's affected, and how that power in maintaining the ecology and environmental health of our urban setting affects our lives. It also discusses the ways architecture can be a major fixing.

1. Urban Ecosystem Chapter 2

2. 1. Definition of Ecosystem Eco : Pertains to a specific geographical region. System : Refers to a set of interconnected and coordinated units. Components of Ecosystems Biotope (Abiotic) Biocenosis (Biotic)

3. Features of an Ecosystem A ) Size of Ecosystems Ecosystems can range from very small (e.g., under a rock or in a water droplet) to very large (encompassing entire landscapes). Three Main Scales of Ecosystems: Micro: Small ecosystems (e.g., ponds, puddles, tree trunks) Messo : Medium-scale ecosystems (e.g., forests, large lakes) Biome: Very large ecosystems or collections of ecosystems with similar characteristics (e.g., entire rainforests)

4. B) Ecosystems Boundaries The borders that separate ecosystems, known as ecosystem boundaries, mark the transition from one ecological system to another. These dividing lines are often blurred and can be influenced by geographical elements like waterways, elevated terrain, or wooded areas.

5. C) Ecosystem Structures refers to the physical components and organization of an ecosystem, including both biotic (living) elements like plants and animals, and abiotic (non-living) elements like soil, water, and climate

6. C) Ecosystem Structures refers to the physical components and organization of an ecosystem, including both biotic (living) elements like plants and animals, and abiotic (non-living) elements like soil, water, and climate

7. 2. Definition and Characterstics of Urban Ecosystem Urban ecosystems are areas primarily inhabited by humans, which include significant habitats for synanthropic species—those associated with urban environments. These ecosystems encompass urban, industrial, commercial, and transportation areas, as well as green spaces, mines, and construction sites. Characteristics Social-Ecological Systems Functional Group High Human Population Density Resource Dependence

8. 2. Characterstics of Urban Ecosystem Environmental Impact : Urban ecosystems influence both local and broader environments, contributing to challenges such as global warming and pollution. Hybrid Ecosystem : Urban ecosystems are hybrids of natural and human-made elements, influenced by culture, behavior, politics, and economics. Spheres Urban ecosystems Three Spheres: Urban ecosystems comprise: 1. Natural Environment 2. Built Environment 3. Socio-Economic Environment Each system necessitates dynamic management and integration to promote sustainability.

9. 2. Characterstics of Urban Ecosystem Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling : Urban ecosystems adhere to the same thermodynamic laws as natural ecosystems but are significantly influenced by social drivers such as institutions and cultural attitudes. High Energy Expenditure : Urban ecosystems consume considerably more energy than they produce. Waste Production : The substantial energy consumption results in significant waste production, including CO2 and various pollutants.

10. 3. Difference between Urban and Natural Ecosystems Composition and Diversity Natural Ecosystem: - composed of various plant, animal and microorganism. - typical have high biodiversity and complex structure Urban Ecosystem: - dominated by a limited number of species - have lower biodiversity Human Influence Natural Ecosystem: - the human influence can be considered minimal. Urban ecosystems and natural ecosystems manifest their distinct characteristics in the following key aspects:

11. 3. Difference between Urban and Natural Ecosystems E nergy Flow: Natural Ecosystem: - relying on natural sources like sunlight. - is more efficient. Urban Ecosystem: - energy input largely comes from external sources (e.g., fossil fuels, electricity). - is less efficient. Resource Use: Natural Ecosystem: Resources are used sustainably, with organisms utilizing what’s available within their environment. Urban Ecosystem can be classified under High resource consumption Pollution: Natural Ecosystem: -Ecosystems are Typically low pollution levels Urban Ecosystem: are classified under high levels of pollution.

12. 4. Ecosystem Services Ecosystem services are the benefits that people obtain from ecosystems. These services are critical for human well-being and environmental sustainability  The benefits provided include food, pharmaceutical products, timber, drinking water, live-able climate, soil fertility, pollination, purification of air and fresh water

13. 4. Ecosystem Services Two criteria distinguish ecosystem services from other ecosystem conditions Connection to human beneficiaries: An ecosystem service must be tied to a specific group of people who benefit from it. This service can be a direct or indirect result of ecological conditions, providing advantages or profits to the beneficiaries. Accessibility: The benefits of the ecosystem service must be attainable by people, without being hindered by physical or institutional barriers that would prevent access.

14. 4.1 Classification of urban ecosystem services Urban ecosystem services can be classified into the following categories, based on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment and other frameworks classified these services into four main categories: provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services.

15. 4.1 Classification of urban ecosystem services Provisioning Services : In the context of ecosystem services, provisioning services refer to the tangible material or energy outputs derived from ecosystems   Regulating services :  These services help maintain environmental quality and regulate various ecological processes Cultural Services : These services encompass the non-material benefits that enhance human well-being Supporting Services : These fundamental processes underpin all other ecosystem services

16. 4.2 Why are we concerned about urban ecosystem services  These services provide essential resources such as clean air, water, and food that support the health and well-being of city residents. As urban populations grow, sustainable management of these ecosystems is crucial to prevent resource depletion and environmental degradation. Additionally, urban ecosystems enhance resilience to climate change, conserve biodiversity, and contribute to economic prosperity by reducing healthcare and infrastructure costs

17. 5. Definition of Biodiversity The term “biodiversity” two Greek works -Bio – life -Diversity – variety or difference Biodiversity refers to the vast array of life on earth, encompassing Genetic variability, Species diversity, Ecosystem diversity, Phylogenetic diversity. Urban Ecosystem urban ecosystem can be defined as a complex network of biological and physical components that interact together in urban environments. It consists: 1. Biological component 2. Physical component

18. 5. Definition of Biodiversity Relationship Between Urban Ecosystems and Biodiversity - more than half of the human population lives in urban areas - cities only account for approximately 3% of the Earth’s surface, most of these locations are in areas that had highly developed biodiversity Three important biodiversity-human relationship implications: 1. Cities must take into account the negative impacts they have on biodiversity. 2. the lack of urban biodiversity will directly impact the majority of people. 3. 'extinction of nature experience' cause negative psychological impact on urban population.

19. 5. Definition of Biodiversity Major Impacts of Cities on Biodiversity Land-use and land cover change Climate change Nitrogen deposition and acid rain The impact of biodiversity on people in cities This environmental changes of will ultimately - Reduce human physical and psychological health - Affect economic health and stability - Impact societal and cultural health.

20. 6. Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity The term "ecological footprint" is composed of two words: "ecology," which refers to the study of how living organisms interact with one another and their physical environment, and "footprint," meaning a marked effect, impression, or impact. The term "ecological footprint" refers to the area of land and water required to sustainably provide all the resources consumed by a population, at the rate they are being used, while also absorbing the waste generated. 6.1 Definition of Ecological Footprint

21. 6. Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity Biocapacity refers to the variety of life within ecosystems and is crucial for maintaining the regenerative capacity of those ecosystems. This regenerative capacity ensures a continuous supply of renewable resources and enables ecosystems to absorb and process waste effectively. 6.2 Definition of Biocapacity

22. 6.1 Relationship Between Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity

23. 6.1 Relationship Between Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity A. Biocapacity Reserve When ecological footprint surpasses biocapacity, it means a population's demand for natural resources exceeds the sustainable supply available in their region. This situation indicates that the area is consuming ecological resources at an unsustainable rate, potentially leading to environmental degradation and resource depletion..

24. 6.1 Relationship Between Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity B. Biocapacity Deficit (Ecological Deficit) when the ecological footprint is less than the biocapacity, it suggests that the consumption of resources is manageable within the region's ecosystem, allowing for a sustainable balance. However, if consumption continues to exceed the ecosystem's regenerative capacity, the region may still meet its demands through imports or by depleting its own ecological assets, such as overfishing and deforestation..

25. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Urban ecosystems are vulnerable to several threatening factors that arise from human activities and environmental changes. Below are the primary factors impacting urban ecosystems, particularly in areas like Addis Ababa and other cities in Ethiopia: Urbanization and Habitat Loss Pollution Climate Change and Urban Heat Island Effect Invasive Species Overexploitation of Resources Loss of Green Infrastructure

26. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Conversion of green spaces (forests, farmlands, wetlands) into buildings, roads, and infrastructure disrupts ecosystems. Fragmentation of habitats makes it harder for wildlife to move freely and reduces biodiversity. Example: Expansion of residential areas near Entoto Hills has fragmented forest habitats, threatening native plants and animals. 1 . Urbanization and Habitat Loss

27. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Air Pollution: Vehicle emissions, industries, and construction activities degrade air quality, harming both humans and animals. Noise and Light Pollution: Disrupts the behavior and reproduction cycles of nocturnal animals and birds. Water Pollution: Rivers and lakes in urban areas suffer from chemical runoff, untreated sewage, and plastic waste. Example: Rivers in Addis Ababa are heavily polluted from the dumping of trash and waste, making them uninhabitable. 2 . Pollution

28. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Deforestation, paved surfaces, and concrete structures increase local temperatures, leading to urban heat islands. Climate change can further intensify droughts and extreme weather events, making urban ecosystems less resilient. Example: Heat stress in cities reduces plant cover and makes urban areas inhospitable for animals. 3 . Climate Change and Urban Heat Island Effect

29. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Urban areas are prone to invasive plants and animals that outcompete native species, reducing biodiversity. Example: Eucalyptus trees, although widely planted in cities, consume large amounts of water, depleting local water resources and limiting native plant growth. 4. Invasive Species

30. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Excessive extraction of groundwater, sand, and other natural resources for construction harms ecosystems. Unsustainable practices, such as the overuse of water from one area, can further deplete local resources. 5. Overexploitation of Resources

31. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Reduction in urban parks, trees, and wetlands decreases the ability of cities to absorb rainwater and regulate temperatures. Without green infrastructure, the urban heat island effect increases, noisy cities are created, flood risks rise, and costs for ventilation and cooling increase. 6. Loss of Green Infrastructure

32. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia As cities expand, animals such as monkeys and birds venture into urban areas, while humans encroach on forested regions for resources, leading to conflict. Example: Monkeys and hyenas around the Entoto region sometimes enter neighborhoods in search of food, which can lead to clashes with humans. 7. Human-Wildlife Conflict

33. 7. Threatening Factors Impacting Urban Ecosystems in Ethiopia Extreme weather events (like storms, droughts) can severely impact urban ecosystems. These conditions can damage infrastructure, disrupt ecological processes, and increase vulnerability to pests and diseases. Example; Prolonged drought periods in the surrounding regions affect water supply for urban areas. In 2016, Ethiopia faced a severe drought that impacted agricultural production, leading to food shortages and increased migration to urban areas, putting additional pressure on city resources 8 . Climate Variability

34. 8. Morality and Ecosystem Humans are capable of altering their environment and ecosystems into something desirable or undesirable. We consider this topic relevant because - it highlights the need for balance between different extreme perspectives. - some argue that humans are a "cancer" to the environment - some promote maximum exploitation of resources, prioritizing profit over sustainability.

35. 8. Morality and Ecosystem The ideas and values we hold as individuals, societies, and communities have a direct effect on - how we perceive humanity and the ecosystem. - how we act in the world - how we give solution for different problem Education should about be change in behavior not just consuming a bunch of facts.

36. 8. Morality and Ecosystem So There are many theories explaining the relationship between humanity and nature Techno-optimism Techno-optimism is the view that technology, when combined with human passion and ingenuity, is key to unlocking a better world. Sustainable Development Sustainable development is defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

37. 8. Morality and Ecosystem Deep Ecology - Deep ecology posits that humans are only a part of nature and must recognize that their needs cannot supersede the general environmental balance. - human beings are part of the environment so they shouldn't have to be viewed differently. - Proponents of deep ecology often call for radical changes in human behavior, including a significant reduction in population and consumption levels.

38. 8. Morality and Ecosystem Eco-fascism Eco-fascism combines environmentalism with authoritarianism, advocating for radical measures to control human populations restrict individual freedoms in the name of ecological preservation. for each theories above - each theory has its own way of describing the problem. - its own solution for the problem. - provides a certain way to perceive our environment and humanity.

39. 8. Morality and Ecosystem Let come to our Common Sense "Theory" Our ideas are built on the following three assumptions: 1. Human beings have the right to exist. 2. Humans have the capacity to restore, preserve, and also destroy their environment. 3. The main reason for protecting our environment is for the sake of humanity, because nature enriches us.

40. 8. Morality and Ecosystem Individually : We have to be aware of our day to day actions. Choose products that are environmentally friendly Individuals should educate themselves about their interaction with the environment. As Society: we have to decrease our carbon footprint and increase our ability to restore and regenerate resources. Encourage investment in renewable energy and sustainable technologies Advocate for policies that protect human rights and the environment

41. Ecosystems Ecosystems are intricate networks of living organisms and their environment.

42. What is an Ecosystem? Biotic Factors Living organisms: plants, animals, fungi. Abiotic Factors Non-living components: water, soil, temperature.

43. Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling Sunlight Energy source for producers. Producers Plants convert sunlight into energy. Consumers Animals obtain energy from consuming plants or other animals. Decomposers Break down dead organisms, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem.

44. Scales of Ecosystems 1 Micro Ecosystems Small ecosystems: pond, under a rock. 2 Meso Ecosystems Larger systems: forests, lakes. 3 Biomes Large regions with many ecosystems.

45. Ecosystem Services Fundamental connection between humans and nature.

46. Definition of Ecosystem Services Essential benefits for human well-being. 1 Food & Water Essential resources for survival. 2 Climate Regulation Maintaining stable climate conditions. 3 Pollination Essential for food production. 4 Soil Fertility Supporting plant growth.

47. Historical Background Ancient roots in philosophical thought. 1 Ancient Roots Plato's observations on nature. 2 18th-19th Century Economists recognizing nature's value. 3 Modern Focus Researchers popularize the concept.

48. What is an Urban Ecosystem? Human Activities Transportation, housing, industry. Infrastructure Roads, buildings, utilities. Natural Components Parks, green spaces, water bodies.

49. Urban Ecosystem Services Air Purification Trees remove pollutants from the air. Water Filtration Green spaces filter stormwater and improve water quality. Temperature Regulation Urban heat island mitigation. Recreation Parks and green spaces provide public spaces for exercise and relaxation.

50. Urban Ecosystem Services Benefits provided by urban green spaces. Parks & Forests Provide recreation, air purification, and wildlife habitat. Gardens Contribute to food production, biodiversity, and aesthetics. Water Bodies Provide recreation, water regulation, and habitat for aquatic life.

51. Factors Affecting Urban Ecosystem Services Population density, land-use patterns, and city proximity influence services. Population Density Impacts on resource use and waste generation. Land-use Patterns Affects green space availability and ecosystem function. City Proximity Impacts on pollution levels and resource availability.

52. Classification of Ecosystem Services Categorization for better understanding and management. Provisioning Regulating Supporting Cultural Food, water, fiber Air quality, climate regulation Habitat, nutrient cycling Recreation, aesthetics

53. Provisioning Services Tangible products essential for urban life. Urban Agriculture Growing food in cities for local consumption. Medicinal Resources Plants with healing properties for urban communities. Freshwater Regulation Managing water resources for drinking and sanitation. Timber Production Sustainably harvesting wood from urban forests.

54. Regulating Services Maintaining essential environmental conditions. Air Quality Trees filter pollutants, improving air quality. Carbon Sequestration Urban forests absorb and store carbon dioxide. Flood Mitigation Green spaces regulate water flow and reduce flooding. Pest Control Biodiversity helps control pests and diseases.

55. Supporting and Cultural Services Fundamental processes and intangible benefits. 1 Habitat & Diversity Urban green spaces provide homes for wildlife. 2 Recreation & Tourism Parks and gardens offer relaxation and entertainment. 3 Aesthetics & Inspiration Nature enhances urban beauty and creativity. 4 Health & Well-being Access to nature improves physical and mental health.

56. Importance of Urban Ecosystem Services Essential for sustainable urban development. Environmental Planning Integrate nature into urban planning for a healthy environment. Ecosystem Degradation Loss of ecosystem services leads to economic and social costs. Balanced Growth Protecting and restoring ecosystems ensures urban well-being.

57. Urban Ecosystem Characteristics

58. High Human Population Density Large number of people living and working in close proximity. 1 Resource Consumption High demands for water, energy, and materials. 2 Infrastructure Development Expansion and maintenance of infrastructure. 3 Environmental Pressures Pollution, waste generation, and habitat loss.

59. Built Environment and Green Spaces Cities are built on altered natural landscapes. Urban Infrastructure Dominated by buildings, roads, and utilities. Green Spaces Essential for biodiversity and recreation. Innovative Solutions Green roofs and walls integrate nature.

60. Biodiversity in Urban Ecosystems Urban ecosystems often have reduced native biodiversity. Native Species Some species adapt to urban conditions. Non-native Species Introductions can disrupt native ecosystems. Conservation Efforts Promote native plant and animal diversity.

61. Resource Consumption & Environmental Impact Cities consume large amounts of energy and water. Environmental Stress Air and water pollution, waste generation. Urban Heat Island Effect Elevated temperatures due to heat-absorbing surfaces.

62. Socio-Economic character Urban areas have a mixture of cultural and economic backgrounds. 1 Dynamic Environments Cultural exchange and innovation. 2 Social Inequality Unequal access to resources and opportunities. 3 Essential Services Healthcare, education, and transportation are crucial.

63. Fragmented Habitats & Water Management Urban development disrupts natural habitats. 1 Habitat Fragmentation Limits species movement and biodiversity. 2 Green Space Connectivity Provide corridors for wildlife. 3 Water Management Challenges Runoff and pollution impact water quality.

64. Ecosystem Services in Urban Areas Urban ecosystems provide essential services. Provisioning Urban agriculture, water supply. Regulating Air quality, climate regulation. Supporting Biodiversity, pollination. Cultural Recreation, aesthetics, education.

65. The Wonders of Urban Biodiversity

66. The Concept of Urban Biodiversity Diverse Ecosystems Urban areas host a variety of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. Adapting to Change Urban biodiversity is shaped by climate, geography, land use, and human activity. Green Spaces Matter Parks, gardens, and green infrastructure support diverse wildlife habitats.

67. Benefits of Urban Biodiversity Ecosystem Services Urban biodiversity provides air and water filtration, climate regulation, and pollination. Human Well-being Access to nature improves mental health and community cohesion. Resilience to Change Diverse urban ecosystems are better equipped to adapt to climate change. Economic Advantages Biodiversity can increase property values and support urban agriculture.

68. Challenges to Urban Biodiversity 1 Habitat Loss Urban expansion destroys natural habitats and fragments ecosystems. 2 Pollution Urban pollution harms wildlife and disrupts ecosystem functions. 3 Invasive Species Non-native species can outcompete and displace native biodiversity.

69. Strategies for Enhancing Urban Biodiversity Create Green Spaces Develop parks, gardens, and natural reserves within cities. Promote Native Species Use local plants in landscaping to support native wildlife. Engage the Community Involve residents in biodiversity conservation efforts. Incorporate Green Infrastructure Integrate green elements like bioswales and green roofs.

70. Research and Monitoring Data Collection Citizen science projects engage the public in data gathering. Collaborative Efforts Universities, NGOs, and city planners work together on research. Informed Strategies Monitoring and analysis guide effective biodiversity management.

71. Policy and Governance 1 Zoning and Land Use Policies that prioritize biodiversity in urban planning. 2 Collaborative Management Coordinated efforts among stakeholders for successful initiatives. 3 Environmental Regulations Regulations that protect and enhance urban biodiversity.

72. The Future of Urban Biodiversity Challenges Opportunities Habitat loss, pollution, invasive species, climate change Innovative green infrastructure, community engagement, informed policies

73. Natural vs. Urban Ecosystems Exploring the distinct characteristics and interactions of natural and urban ecosystems.

74. Natural Ecosystems 1 Biological Diversity Rich biodiversity supports ecosystem resilience. 2 Self-Regulation Intricate self-regulatory mechanisms maintain balance. 3 Minimal Human Influence Function independently, relying on natural processes.

75. Urban Ecosystems Human-Built Structures Buildings, roads, and infrastructure dominate the landscape. Reduced Biodiversity Lower diversity compared to natural ecosystems. Dependence on Human Inputs Rely on external resources supplied by humans.

76. Key Differences Feature Natural Ecosystem Urban Ecosystem Origin Occurs naturally Created by humans Biodiversity High Low Self-Regulation Strong Weak

77. Comparative Analysis Biodiversity Natural ecosystems have far greater species diversity. Self-Regulation Natural ecosystems possess more robust self-regulatory mechanisms. Human Influence Urban ecosystems have significantly more human impact.

78. Ecosystem Structure 1 Natural Ecosystems Complex and interconnected structure with diverse habitats. 2 Urban Ecosystems Dominated by human-built structures with simplified structure.

79. Ecosystem Services Climate Regulation Natural ecosystems provide climate regulation services. Water Purification Natural ecosystems offer water purification benefits. Pollination Natural ecosystems support pollination processes.

80. Resilience Natural Ecosystems More resilient to disturbances due to biodiversity and self-regulation. Urban Ecosystems Less resilient to challenges like climate change and extreme weather.

81. Threatening Factors of Urban Ecosystems Cities are complex systems with interwoven ecological and human components.

82. Urbanization and Habitat Destruction 1 Habitat Loss Expanding cities replace natural areas. 2 Fragmentation Isolated ecosystems become less resilient. 3 Biodiversity Reduction Species lose access to vital resources. 4 Disrupted Processes Pollination and migration are affected.

83. Waste Production Landfills Contribute to soil and groundwater pollution. Sewage Untreated waste contaminates water. Toxic Substances Accumulation degrades habitats.

84. Pollution Air Pollution Impacts plant and animal life. Water Pollution Disrupts aquatic life, harms ecosystems. Soil Pollution Reduces fertility and biodiversity.

85. Resource Depletion and Overuse 1 Water Strain on rivers and lakes. 2 Energy Excessive consumption pollutes. 3 Land Green spaces are crucial for balance.

86. Climate Changes Heatwaves More frequent and severe. Water Scarcity Ecosystem resilience declines. Habitat Degradation Increased energy demand for cooling.

87. Understanding Your Ecological Footprint Ecological Footprint: What is it?

88. Ecological Footprint: What is it? it is basically measures the Demand on Nature vs the Supply of Naturje How Ecological Footprint is Measured How Ecological Footprint is Measured it is a measurement of the land area required to sustain a popullation of any size

89. How Ecological Footprint is Measured Global Hectares Measured in "global hectares" (gha). Factors Considered Food consumption, housing, goods and services, transportation, carbon footprint. Demand vs. Supply Compares demand with Earth's biocapacity. Understanding the Calculation Understanding the Calculation Ecological Footprint: What is it?

90. Understanding the Calculation Equation EF = ΣTi/Yw x EQFi Ti: Annual amount of tons consumed Yw: World-average yield of each product EQFi: Equivalence factor for each product Simplified Explanation Compares consumption to global production. How Ecological Footprint is Measured How Ecological Footprint is Measured

91. What's a Good Ecological Footprint? Lower Than Biocapacity Lower than Earth's biocapacity (1.7 gha per person). Sustainability Sustainability achieved when footprint is less than 1.7 gha. Understanding the Calculation

92. Impacts of High Ecological Footprint Resource Depletion Natural resources are depleted. Greenhouse Gases Increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Water Depletion Water resources are depleted. Air Quality Poor air quality results. Consequences for the Earth Impacts of High Ecological Footprint Understanding the Calculation

93. Consequences for the Earth Exceeding Biocapacity Existing and worsening effects due to exceeding biocapacity. Resource Scarcity Depletion of resources leads to resource scarcity. Climate Change Climate change exacerbates negative i mpacts. Improving Your Ecological Footprint: Part 1 Impacts of High Ecological Footprint

94. Improving Your Ecological Footprint Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Minimize waste and recycle materials. Conserve Energy Use energy-efficient appliances and renewable sources. Eat Sustainably Choose local and plant-based foods. Consequences for the Earth