Glossary
acid rain water in the atmosphere that, having picked up acids or acid-forming compounds
(such as carbon dioxide) from the air, falls to the earth in the form of rain, snow, or sleet.
ambient temperature temperature of the air in the surrounding space.
anthropocentrism belief that human beings are the most important entities in the universe.
aquaculture the propagation and raising of aquatic species, including shellfish and fish, in a
human-controlled environment.
barrier island ocean island that lies roughly parallel to the coast and acts as a protective barrier
for the mainland against the ravages of the ocean.
biocentrism belief that all living things have an equal right to flourish and enjoy the benefits
of their common environment.
biodegradable capable of being broken down into innocuous natural products through the ac-
tion of living organisms.
biodiversity variation of the genetic material within a single species, of the totality of species
within all taxonomic groupings, and of the landscapes and ecosystems within which these
varied species exist.
biofuel liquid fuel that is synthesized by fermenting sugar or grain (such as corn).
biomass energy energy produced using plant materials and animal waste as a source of fuel.
biosphere the segment of the earth where life is found.
biota the totality of the flora and fauna found in a given area.
bison American species of buffalo.
brownfield land, usually a former industrial site, whose reuse, redevelopment, or expansion
may be complicated by the presence of hazardous materials or contaminants.