Comparison of a Natural Ecosystem and a Simplified Human System
Natural Ecosystem Simplified Human system
(marsh grassland, forest) (cornfield, factory house)
Natural Ecosystem Simplified Human system
(marsh grassland, forest) (cornfield, factory house)
Captures, converts, and
stores energy from the sun
Produces oxygen and
consumes carbon dioxide
Creates fertile soil
Stores, purifies, and
releases water gradually
Provides wildlife habitats
Filters and detoxifies
pollutants and waste products free of
charge
Usually capable of
self-maintenance and self-renewal
Consumes energy from fossil or nuclear fuel
Consumes oxygen and
produces carbon dioxide from the burning of
fossil fuels
Depletes or covers fertile soil
Often uses and contaminates
water and releases it rapidly
Destroys some wildlife habitats
Produces pollutants and
waste, which must be cleaned up at our
expense
Requires continual
maintenance and renewal at great cost
