Table 3.

Some ecological consequences of human activity on ecosystem processes

Ecosystem structure

Loss of biodiversity

Structural asymmetry and downsizing of communities

Loss of keystone species and functional groups

Ecosystem processes

Low internal regulation

High nutrient turnover

High resilience

Low resistance

Low variability

Low adaptability

Ecosystem functions

High porosity of nutrients and sediments

Loss of productivity

Loss of reflectance

Global processes

Modified biogeochemical cycles

Atmospheric change

Accelerated climatic change