7.2a Human activities that degrade ecosystems result in a loss of diversity of the living
and nonliving environment. For example, the influence of humans on other organisms
occurs through land use and pollution. Land use decreases the space and resources
available to other species, and pollution changes the chemical composition of air, soil,
and water.
7.2b When humans alter ecosystems either by adding or removing specific organisms,
serious consequences may result. For example, planting large expanses of one crop
reduces the biodiversity of the area.
7.2c Industrialization brings an increased demand for and use of energy and other
resources including fossil and nuclear fuels. This usage can have positive and negative
effects on humans and ecosystems.