Nuclear Winter – a long period of darkness and extreme cold that scientists predict would follow a full-scale nuclear war; a layer of dust and smoke in the atmosphere would cover the earth and block the rays of the sun; most living organisms would perish
Nonrenewable Energy
Nonrenewable Energy – Sources of energy that cannot be replaced in reasonable period of time. Fossil fuels (coal, petroleum, natural gas) are examples of nonrenewable energy sources.
Nitrogen Fixation
Nitrogen Fixation – the assimilation of atmospheric nitrogen by soil bacteria and its release for plant use on the death of the bacteria.
Nitrogen Cycle
Nitrogen Cycle – the circulation of nitrogen; nitrates from the soil are absorbed by plants which are eaten by animals that die and decay returning the nitrogen back to the soil.
Niche
Niche – (ecology) the status of an organism within its environment and community (affecting its survival as a species).
Natural Fibers
Natural Fibers – are “certified” organic fibers derived from organic agriculture such as cotton, bamboo and hemp.
National Trust
National Trust – an organization concerned to preserve historic monuments and buildings and places of historical interest or natural beauty; founded in 1895 and supported by endowment and private subscription.
National Park
National Park - a tract of land declared by the national government to be public property.
Muir, John
Muir, John - United States naturalist (born in England) who advocated the creation of national parks (1838-1914).
Mobilize
Mobilize - make ready for action or use, cause to move around, or call to arms.
Mire
Mire- deep soft mud in water or slush, a soft wet area of low-lying land that sinks underfoot.
Mesic
Mesic - having or characterized by moderate or a well-balanced supply of moisture.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) - A compilation of information required under OSHA hazard communication standard, including a listing of hazardous chemicals, health & physical hazards, exposure limits & handling precautions.
Mangrove
Mangrove – a tropical tree or shrub bearing fruit that germinates while still on the tree and having numerous prop roots that eventually form an impenetrable mass and are important in land building.
Mallee
Mallee- any of several low-growing Australian eucalypts.
Low Impact Dyes
Low Impact Dyes – refers to dyes used the manufacture of goods that should have minimal impact on the environment. Sometimes the term non-toxic is used here as well.
Lotic
Lotic: of or relating to or living in actively moving water.
Littoral
Littoral – of or relating to a coastal or shore region, the region of the shore of a lake or sea or ocean.
Litter
Litter- the offspring at one birth of a multiparous mammal or rubbish carelessly dropped or left about (especially in public places).
Life Cycle Assessment
Life Cycle Assessment : A compilation & evaluation of the inputs, outputs & the potential environmental impacts of a product or system throughout its life cycle.