1. An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment (such as air, water, and mineral soil), interacting as a system. 2. Ecosystems are incredibly important to life on our planet. They provide essential services such as regulating the climate, purifying air and water, cycling nutrients, providing food, and supporting biodiversity. Without healthy ecosystems, life on Earth would be unsustainable. 3. There are several ways to protect ecosystems: - Conservation efforts: Protecting natural habitats and wildlife through conservation measures. - Sustainable practices: Using resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. - Pollution control: Implementing measures to reduce pollution of air, water, and soil. - Education and awareness: Educating people about the importance of ecosystems and promoting sustainable behaviors. - Policy and legislation: Enacting laws and regulations to protect ecosystems and biodiversity.