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Portfolio Topic: Write a Research Portfolio on one example of how human activity affects the environment. Include digital sources in your research, and write your paper in a way that allows you to easily turn it into a presentation (or on an alternate topic as assigned by your teacher).

Revising and Editing Checklists: Make sure you have used the Revising Checklist and Editing Checklist to strengthen your writing.
Rubric: Use the Research and Presentation Portfolio Rubric to make sure you are meeting all the goals of the portfolio.

1 answer

Research Portfolio: The Effects of Urbanization on Biodiversity

Introduction

Urbanization, the process by which cities and towns grow as more people begin living and working in central areas, has significant impacts on the environment. One of the foremost effects of urbanization is its influence on biodiversity. As urban areas expand, natural habitats are altered or destroyed, leading to a decline in species diversity and abundance. This portfolio examines how urbanization affects biodiversity, its ecological consequences, and potential strategies for mitigation.

The Impact of Urbanization on Biodiversity

Habitat Loss

One of the most direct effects of urbanization is habitat loss. Urban development oftentimes involves the clearing of forests, wetlands, and grasslands to make way for buildings, roads, and infrastructure. According to the World Resources Institute (WRI), "urban sprawl has led to a dramatic reduction in natural habitats worldwide." This habitat destruction is particularly detrimental to endemic species that rely on specific environments for survival.

Digital Source:

  • World Resources Institute. (2020). "Urbanization and Its Impacts." Retrieved from WRI Website

Fragmentation of Ecosystems

Urban areas not only destroy habitats but also fragment them. This fragmentation isolates wildlife populations, leading to genetic bottlenecks and decreased reproductive success. Animals that rely on large territories for food and shelter, such as large mammals, are particularly affected. Furthermore, isolated populations are more vulnerable to extinction due to limited genetic diversity, making them less resilient to environmental changes.

Digital Source:

  • Habitat Fragmentation. (2021). “Effects of Fragmentation on Ecosystems.” Retrieved from National Parks Service

Pollution

Urban areas contribute significantly to various forms of pollution, including air, water, and soil contamination. Industrial activities and vehicle emissions release pollutants that can be toxic to wildlife and alter local ecosystems. For example, heavy metals and chemicals can accumulate in the food chain, affecting not only wildlife but also humans who rely on these ecosystems for food.

Digital Source:

  • United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2021). "Pollution and Biodiversity Loss." Retrieved from UNEP Website

Invasive Species

Urbanization often introduces non-native species into local ecosystems. These invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, leading to further declines in biodiversity. For instance, bulrush has been shown to spread in urban wetlands, outcompeting native flora and disrupting local fauna.

Digital Source:

Climate Change

The concentration of buildings, vehicles, and industrial activities in urban areas contributes to the urban heat island effect, which can alter local climates. These changes can further impact local biodiversity by affecting species' breeding and migration patterns. Increased temperatures can also cause shifts in plant and animal distributions, threatening species that cannot adapt quickly enough.

Mitigation Strategies

Green Infrastructure

Incorporating green spaces within urban environments—like parks, green roofs, and vertical gardens—can help mitigate some negative impacts of urbanization. These spaces can provide habitats for wildlife, promote biodiversity, and enhance the overall quality of life for urban residents.

Digital Source:

  • American Society of Landscape Architects. (2020). "The Benefits of Green Infrastructure." Retrieved from ASLA Website

Urban Wildlife Corridors

Establishing wildlife corridors that connect fragmented habitats can facilitate species movement and genetic exchange. These corridors can ensure that wildlife can traverse urban spaces safely and maintain viable populations.

Digital Source:

  • The Wildlife Conservation Society. (2019). "Urban Wildlife Corridors." Retrieved from WCS Website

Conclusion

Urbanization poses a significant threat to biodiversity through habitat loss, fragmentation, pollution, invasive species introduction, and climate change. However, with strategic planning and implementation of mitigation strategies like green infrastructure and wildlife corridors, it is possible to create urban environments that support both human communities and diverse ecosystems. As cities continue to grow, it is crucial to prioritize initiatives that value biodiversity to ensure a sustainable future.

References

  1. World Resources Institute. (2020). "Urbanization and Its Impacts." Retrieved from WRI Website
  2. National Parks Service. (2021). “Effects of Fragmentation on Ecosystems.” Retrieved from National Parks Service
  3. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2021). "Pollution and Biodiversity Loss." Retrieved from UNEP Website
  4. Invasive Species Council. (2020). "Urbanization and Invasive Species." Retrieved from Invasive Species Council
  5. American Society of Landscape Architects. (2020). "The Benefits of Green Infrastructure." Retrieved from ASLA Website
  6. The Wildlife Conservation Society. (2019). "Urban Wildlife Corridors." Retrieved from WCS Website

This research portfolio can easily be adapted into a presentation format, emphasizing the critical points with visuals, graphs, and key statistics to support the discussion on urbanization and its effect on biodiversity.