Ecology is the study, based on scientific methods, of observing the interactions and effects of organisms in their physical environment. This implements the use of other fields of science; such as but not limited to, atmospheric science, biology, geography, geology, hydrology, limnology, mineralogy, oceanology and zoology.

Interesting factoid: The entomology of the word "ecology" is derived from two Greek words, meaning house and environment.

The opinions formed by the conclusions of these studies at times differ and at times can become heated. But it is generally understood that humans have a responsibility to this planet more than any other organism. The results of human efforts to conserve, save and protect may determine if earth's resources will survive for generations to come.

Since humans are an organism, they are included in the study of ecology. It is generally observed that humans as a whole have a giant impact on their environment. Especially since they have the ability to mechanize and automate the consumption of earth's resource reserves at an unprecedented rate. The byproducts they produce, unlike any other organism, in less than parts per millions, could form several layers over the entire globe.