Question

What is ecological balance and why do we need to maintain it?

Answer 1

The organisms in an ecosystem have their own physical environment. The living components interact with each other, transferring matter and energy among themselves as well as to the abiotic elements. The Sun is the source of energy for all life forms. Therefore, the ecosystem goes through constant change and the energy is recycled. Maintenance of an equilibrium in the transfer of energy and matter is known as ecological balance. This balance helps to keep the ecosystem stable.

When there is more emission of energy and matter out of the ecosystem, an imbalance is created. This causes disruption in the proper functioning of the ecosystem. With the passage of time, the needs of human beings are increasing. This is leading to deforestation, loss of habitat of animals, increase in construction and transportation and industrialisation, which, in turn, is resulting into depletion of the ecosystem.

The ecological balance can be maintained in the following ways:

i) Controlling air and water pollution
ii) Preventing deforestation
iii) Stopping the hunting and poaching of animals to conserve the endangered species.
iv) Management of natural resources: Minerals, fossil fuels and other natural resources are being depleted very fast. These should be used carefully. This would ensure a better future with stable supply of natural resources.
v) Reuse and recycle: Water and other resources can be reused and recycled to prevent over consumption.