Conservation
/ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of protecting something, especially natural resources, from loss or harm.
/ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/
The act of preserving or protecting something.
The government implemented new policies to promote energy conservation.
💡 Simply: It's like taking care of something so it doesn't get used up or ruined. Like conserving water by taking shorter showers, or conserving your energy by getting enough sleep.
👶 For kids: Keeping things safe and from being used up. Like saving water or protecting animals.
More Examples
Wildlife conservation efforts are essential for protecting biodiversity.
Forest conservation helps to maintain clean air and water.
How It's Used
"The conservation of endangered species is a crucial task."
"Water conservation is vital during droughts."
The careful utilization of a resource to minimize waste and ensure its availability for the future.
/ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/
The careful use of resources to prevent waste.
Water conservation practices are essential in arid regions.
💡 Simply: It's also about using things wisely. For example, conservation of electricity means turning off the lights when you leave the room.
👶 For kids: Using things carefully so we don't run out. Like turning off the lights to save electricity.
More Examples
Economic conservation involves using resources efficiently.
The city is promoting conservation of resources through educational programs.
How It's Used
"Energy conservation can lead to significant cost savings."
"The goal of conservation in this case is the sustainable use of forests."
Idioms & expressions
conservation easement
A legal agreement that restricts the use of a property to protect its conservation values.
"A conservation easement was put in place to protect the historic farmland."
sustainable conservation
Conservation practices that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
"Sustainable conservation is crucial for long-term environmental health."
From Late Latin *conservationem* (nominative *conservatio*), meaning 'a keeping, preservation', from the verb *conservare* 'to keep, preserve'.
The term 'conservation' emerged in the 19th century with the rise of environmental awareness and resource management concerns. Its initial focus was on the wise use of natural resources for the benefit of human societies.
Memory tip
Think of preserving something you want to last, like a favorite memory.