In the study of ecology there is now major focus on the increased use of resources and on the impact of humans on the Earth. Classical biology can explain biological phenomena but modern biology must now find new innovative ways to stimulate the intelligent mind and encourage science inquisitiveness. Is it possible to understand human effects on the environment without knowledge of physics, chemistry, mathematics, technology and biology? Eco biology involves industries, businesses, research and educational institutions as well as the activities of municipal and county government. We therefore recommend study visits and the involvement of experts. A study visit and field-work will probably give rise to many questions. Some of these can be answered by doing Internet searches and email contact with various businesses, researchers and others. Another alternative is to invite an expert to work in the field or to talk to the class.
All Ecobiology activities include ICK because they are interlinked.
Teachers and students are encouraged to search and identify specific examples of industrial places where scientists complete work that relates to the designed activities– zoos, botanical gardens, nature conservation areas, departments of forestry and agriculture universities, institutes of research, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, beekeeping industry, mushroom farms and government councils. Two examples used by Ecobiology students include:
• Pharmaceutical Industry
Medicinal and aromatic plants, also known as herbal drugs that are used as therapeutic, aromatic and/or culinary purposes as components of cosmetics, medicinal products, health foods and other natural health products thus creating a clear industrial demand.
• Green house industry
Greenhouse production of vegetable crops has increased throughout the world resulting in increased imports of greenhouse-produced vegetables. It is critical that growers develop new technologies to compete with the quality and cost of greenhouse-grown crops.