ecosystem, definition of

An ecosystem is a natural unit consisting of all plants, animals and micro-organisms in an area functioning together with all the non-living physical factors of the environment.

Wikipedia Entry

Note: Just be clear, an ecosystem by definition does include 'us' and what we do, we all inhabit the same set of systems. Therefore be careful of ecosystem analysis's done without consideration of what impact (both in the good and bad sense) humans have made. There are very few ecosystems that we do not engage with over the longer term.

• Eco Tourism, how to minimise your effects
  Eco tourism is about enjoying remote places and destinations whilst minimising your environmental or cultural impact. This article goes into some detail on this subject.
• Ecologically Sustainable Development, what it is and how you can do it
  Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) is defined and explained in detail in this article; and how it helps you to be more green and eco friendly.

• "The Accidental Ecosystem" that's right outside your door
  Raccoons raiding your garbage, squirrels on wires, coyotes scouting for pets left out after dark -- they’re not the urban riffraff of the animal world. According to author Peter S. Alagona, “The recent explosion of wildlife in American cities is one...
• Check out this farm's holistic approach to agriculture
  How often do you think about where your food is sourced from? Chances are, not all that much. However, sustainable food sourcing is becoming increasingly important. Like other products we consume, the foods we eat also have individual carbon footprints....