Key terms & definitions

A gradual change in an environmental factor across an area, such as increasing light intensity from shade to open ground.

A stage or process that makes a particularly large contribution to an environmental impact.

An effect on ecosystems, habitats, land, water or environmental quality.

A change to the environment caused by an activity or product, such as resource depletion, pollution or waste production.

A change to the surroundings caused by an activity, such as pollution or habitat loss from energy use.

An effect on the natural environment, such as resource use, energy consumption, pollution or waste.

The effects that an activity or product has on the environment, including pollution, habitat damage and resource use.

An assessment of the likely environmental effects of a proposed activity before it takes place.

A consequence for the natural world, such as changes in resource use, pollution or biodiversity.

An issue involving the effects of an activity or technology on the natural world, such as resource use, energy consumption or pollution.

An issue concerning a product’s effects on the natural world, including resource use, emissions, pollution and waste.

A textile designed to protect the environment or reduce environmental impact, for example through filtration or biodegradability.

Deprivation arising from poor surroundings and living conditions, such as inadequate housing or air pollution.

An agreement associated with the Antarctic Treaty that designates Antarctica as a natural reserve devoted to peace and science and strengthens environmental protection.

The condition of a place's surroundings, including features such as building maintenance, litter, pavement condition and green space.

A fieldwork method that assesses environmental conditions at selected sites using the same criteria and recording scale.

A person forced to leave their home because environmental change or a disaster makes living there unsafe or livelihoods impossible. This term does not itself confer legal refugee status.

Making decisions that take account of environmental impacts and aim to prevent or reduce environmental harm.

The duty to consider and reduce the harm that human actions cause to the natural world.

Responsible care for the natural world and its resources.

Meeting demands on natural resources without reducing the ability of people, animals and plants to live well, now and in the future.

Meeting present needs while protecting the environment and resources on which future generations depend.

Variation caused by differences in the conditions in which organisms develop or live.

Differences between individuals caused by the conditions in which they develop or live.

A pattern of distinct areas with different environmental conditions or communities of organisms.

A representative sent by a state to deliver messages or take part in discussions with another state.

Resentment of another person’s advantages or success, often accompanied by a desire to possess them.

A biological catalyst that speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up.

A biological catalyst: a substance made by living organisms that speeds up a reaction without being used up.

A protein that acts as a biological catalyst, speeding up a chemical reaction without being used up.