IED1501
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
DUE: 4 JULY 2025 (MEMO)
, QUESTION 2
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
DUE 4 JULY 2025
Written
Assessment 02 is compulsory. Study learning units 1 to 3 of the study guide to help
you complete this assignment. Also, feel free to read any other relevant scholarly
sources.
QUESTION 1
Define the following concepts:
1.1 Anthropocene
The Anthropocene is the current geological era in which human activity plays a
dominant role in shaping the earth’s geology and ecosystems. It is marked by
increased environmental risks and global ecological disruption caused by human
actions (Learning Unit 2, Pereira 2015).
1.2 Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including different species of animals,
plants, and microorganisms. It is vital for human survival as it provides oxygen, food,
medicines, and raw materials. Biodiversity loss is a growing problem in South Africa,
mainly due to human activities like agriculture, mining, and pollution (Learning Unit 2,
Department of Environmental Affairs 2012).
1.3 Alien Invasive Species
Alien invasive species are non-native plants or animals that enter and disrupt natural
ecosystems, often outcompeting indigenous species. In South Africa, these species
particularly affect wetlands and rivers, degrading natural habitats and threatening local
biodiversity (Learning Unit 2, Department of Environmental Affairs 2012).
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
DUE: 4 JULY 2025 (MEMO)
, QUESTION 2
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
DUE 4 JULY 2025
Written
Assessment 02 is compulsory. Study learning units 1 to 3 of the study guide to help
you complete this assignment. Also, feel free to read any other relevant scholarly
sources.
QUESTION 1
Define the following concepts:
1.1 Anthropocene
The Anthropocene is the current geological era in which human activity plays a
dominant role in shaping the earth’s geology and ecosystems. It is marked by
increased environmental risks and global ecological disruption caused by human
actions (Learning Unit 2, Pereira 2015).
1.2 Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including different species of animals,
plants, and microorganisms. It is vital for human survival as it provides oxygen, food,
medicines, and raw materials. Biodiversity loss is a growing problem in South Africa,
mainly due to human activities like agriculture, mining, and pollution (Learning Unit 2,
Department of Environmental Affairs 2012).
1.3 Alien Invasive Species
Alien invasive species are non-native plants or animals that enter and disrupt natural
ecosystems, often outcompeting indigenous species. In South Africa, these species
particularly affect wetlands and rivers, degrading natural habitats and threatening local
biodiversity (Learning Unit 2, Department of Environmental Affairs 2012).
