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An adverse effect is an effect
that is considered harmful or potentially harmful (e.g., changes
that alter important ecosystem structural or functional mechanisms).
Exactly what constitutes an adverse effect depends on the specific
ecological situation and must be defined on a case-by-case basis,
considering factors such as:
- The type, intensity, and scale of the effect.
- The potential for recovery.
Adversity is a complex issue. A stressor can cause adverse effects
on one ecosystem, but be neutral or even beneficial to other components.
For example, nutrient loading is beneficial to algae but can be
detrimental to other organisms as algal decay consumes oxygen.
Relevant
guidelines section(s): 1.0
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Adverse
Effects (Text Version)