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Nature's Services
Fathom
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| Seminar Introduction |
 Although few of us even notice their impact on our everyday lives, the over 1 million species of plants and animals on the planet aid humans by creating oxygen, decomposing organic matter, filtering air and water and controlling pests. These natural services are essential for the survival of human beings. However, anthropogenic activities, such as land clearing, commercial development and chemical pollution are interfering with the basic ecological functions. As human behavior disturbs normal ecosystem processes, are we threatening the very systems that sustain our existence? In this seminar, an array of experts explores the value of nature's services to the human species. Using real-life examples, like the conflict surrounding New York City's watershed and the problem of frequent flooding in Tulsa, Oklahoma, they examine the complex interactions between human existence and ecological cycles. They explain the dangers of damaging ecosystems, while highlighting ways that people can both preserve the Earth and benefit from its services. With the right combination of environmental research, community effort and public policy, the human species can reap the benefits of nature's services without harming the environment or endangering our own existence.
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| Learning Objectives |
- List three ways that natural processes sustain human survival.
- Explore New York State's natural water filtration system and its various impact on residents in different parts of the state.
- Learn how environmental forecasting has the potential to improve the manner in which people set policies and prepare for emergencies.
- Recognize difficulties that economists face when trying to assign a monetary value to an ecological service.
- Identify ways that humans can change their behavior to better suit environmental needs, which in turn benefit humans.
- Learn about the essential service that pollinators provide for human beings.
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| Sessions |
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| Credits |
Copyright 2001, RAND.
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| Technical Requirements |
To appreciate this seminar experience, it is critical that you have the appropriate software, plug-ins, and network connections. Please take the time to download the latest versions of the plug-ins mentioned below if you do not already have them.
Browser: Netscape versions 4.x up to 4.76, or Internet Explorer versions 4.x or later. Your browser must have JavaScript enabled and must be set to accept cookies.
Network Connection: The recommended minimum connection is 56K modem with throughput of 34Kbps or more. A faster connection is encouraged to take better advantage of the media elements in the seminar. Plug-ins: If you do not have RealPlayer and Flash Player already installed, please download them from the following sites:
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