Definitions of key terms and words used used by the CASCADE project and in this website.
Social and economic structures and processes that can either singly or in combination lead to a particular change.
The stripping of soil and weathered rock from landforms; creating sediment for transportation by water, wind or ice, and enabling formation of new sedimentary deposits.
A model describing the dynamics of water over the land surface or/and in the soil, and of the plant system in a certain area. Generally, plant dynamics depends on, and at the same time influences, soil water availability.
An internationally important habitat designated under the EC Habitats Directive.
"Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It contains within it two key concepts: the concept of needs, in particular the essential needs of the world's poor, to which overriding priority should be given; and the idea of limitations imposed by the state of technology and social organization on the environment's ability to meet present and future needs". (Brundtland Report, 1987)
1. A knowledge-based combination of technologies, policies and practices that integrate land, water, biodiversity, and environmental concerns (including input and output externalities) to meet rising food and fibre demands while sustaining ecosystem services and livelihoods (United Nations 1987; Wood and Dumanski, 1994; World Bank, 2006).
2. The use of land and water resources, including soils, water, animals and plants, for the production of goods to meet changing human needs, while simultaneously ensuring the long-term productive potential of these resources and the maintenance of their environmental functions. (WOCAT)
Managing soil and crop cultural practices so as not to degrade or impair environmental quality on or off site, and without eventually reducing yield potential as a result of the chosen practice through exhaustion of either on-site resources or non-renewable inputs.
