Environmental Conservation – SS2 Geography Lesson Note (Second Term)

Environmental conservation is the process of preserving natural resources from loss, waste or exploitation to ensure continuous availability.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• define environmental conservation;
• list seven methods of environmental conservation;
• explain the importance of environmental conservation to man.

What are the methods of environmental conservation?

Environmental conservation methods include the following:

1. Afforestation
2. Re-afforestation
3. Cover-cropping
4. Improved farming techniques
5. Environmental education
6. Recycling
7. Legislation against environmental degradation

Why is environmental conservation important to man?

Environmental conservation directly affects the well-being and survival of humanity. The following are the major reasons why it is important:

1. Ecosystem services: Healthy ecosystems provide essential services such as clean air and water, pollination of crops, climate regulation and disease control.
2. Biodiversity and food security: Conservation of diverse plant and animal species is vital for maintaining genetic diversity. This diversity helps agriculture to resist pests, diseases and environmental changes, and so contributes to global food security.
3. Climate change mitigation: Preserving forests and other ecosystems helps to sequester carbon dioxide, which reduces the impacts of climate change.
4. Natural resources for livelihoods: Many communities depend on natural resources for their livelihoods, including fishing, agriculture and forestry.
5. Human health: Clean air, water and soil are essential for human health. Environmental conservation safeguards these elements, prevents pollution and the spread of diseases, and leads to a healthier population.
6. Recreation and aesthetic value: Natural environments offer recreational opportunities and contribute to the overall well-being of individuals.
7. Economic benefits: Conserving natural resources and ecosystems contributes to sustainable economic development.

Evaluation

1. Define environmental conservation.
2. List five methods of environmental conservation.
3. State three ecosystem services provided by healthy ecosystems.
4. How does the conservation of forests help to reduce the impacts of climate change?

Assignment

Explain any three reasons why environmental conservation is important to man.