Land use

Ecology · Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems · note 3 of 6

Spec 4.7.3.3Download all Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems notes (PDF)Download all notes (PDF)5 pages

Land useSpec 4.7.3.3

In short

Humans reduce the amount of land available for other animals and plants by building, quarrying, farming and dumping waste. Destroying peat bogs to produce garden compost reduces the area of this habitat, so it reduces biodiversity. The decay or burning of the peat also releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming.

Humans reduce the amount of land available for other animals and plants by building, quarrying, farming and dumping waste.

Peat bogs

The destruction of peat bogs and other areas of peat to produce garden compost reduces the area of this habitat. This reduces the variety of different plant, animal and microorganism species that live there (biodiversity).

The decay or burning of the peat releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming.

There is a conflict. People want cheap, available compost to increase food production, but peat bogs and peatlands need to be conserved as habitats for biodiversity and to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Exam tip:

In a conflict question give both sides, then reach a conclusion, for example that using peat-free compost protects the habitat but may cost more.

Written and checked against the AQA GCSE Combined Science (8464) specification · Updated October 2026

Frequently asked questions

Why is biodiversity important to ecosystems?

Biodiversity is important because a great biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems. With many different species, each species depends less on any one other species for food, shelter and the maintenance of the physical environment. The future of the human species on Earth also relies on us maintaining a good level of biodiversity.

How does deforestation affect the carbon cycle?

Deforestation increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Fewer trees means less photosynthesis, so less carbon dioxide is removed from the air, and the decay and burning of the cleared trees release more carbon dioxide. Higher carbon dioxide levels contribute to global warming, and destroying the forest habitat also reduces biodiversity.

What are the biological consequences of global warming?

The biological consequences of global warming include loss of habitats as ice melts or rising sea levels flood low-lying areas, changes in the distribution of species as organisms move to cooler areas, and changes in the migration patterns of animals. Some species cannot adapt or move and may die out, which reduces biodiversity.

All 4 questions on Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems