Without a doubt, ecosystem health has huge consequences for human well-being on Earth. Click on the globe to listen to Blain Anderson discuss the consequences of changes in Alaska's amphibian population on humans living near the parks.

According to Greenfacts.org
"…human well-being is highly dependent on ecosystems and the benefits they provide such as food and drinkable water. Over the past 50 years, however, humans have had a tremendous impact on their environment. "To better understand the consequences of current changes to ecosystems and to evaluate scenarios for the future, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has launched a comprehensive scientific study, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment."

Learn more about the details of this report. In the activities that follow, compare the National Park Service's science and research activities to the needs called for by the U.N. scientists.

Divide the 10 questions found in the summary of the U.N.'s Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Systems Report, created by Greenfacts.org, among members of your group to research in depth. Click the globe to find the questions and information.

For each question create a simple concept map to highlight the most important points made by in the UN report. Click the flowchart map to find information about the best concept map for your group to use. When your research is done take time to share your findings with all the members of the group.

Next, visit the NPS Nature and Science Website. On this site, many of the scientific activities in the parks are described, often with reports and results available.

Divide the following 6 topics listed on the site among your group:

1. Air
2. Biology
3. Geology
4. Global Conservation
5. Natural Sounds
6. Water

Investigate 1-2 projects listed under your assigned topic. It's not necessary to go into great depth on any one topic unless your interest leads to greater research. As you read make a note of information that speaks directly to the needs outlined in the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Systems Report.

Meet together to share your findings from NPS. Work as a group to compare your findings with the concept maps you created earlier. Click the tree to find a worksheet to help you and your classmates come to a consensus on an evaluation of the NPS commitment to global ecological health.