Which scientific discipline assesses changes in Earth's environment caused by natural and human factors?

Environmental science is the scientific discipline that examines the interactions between physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment, and how these interactions are impacted by both natural processes and human activities. It involves studying ecosystems, understanding the impact of pollution, evaluating biodiversity, and assessing natural resource management.

This field takes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating concepts from various fields such as biology, chemistry, geology, and atmospheric science to comprehend how human actions, such as industrialization, urbanization, and conservation efforts, affect environmental conditions and climate. It places a significant emphasis on not only understanding the changes that occur but also exploring sustainable practices to mitigate negative impacts.

In contrast, geology primarily focuses on the solid Earth, studying its materials, processes, and history rather than the broader environmental context. Physics deals with the fundamental principles of matter and energy rather than environmental changes specifically. Botany, the study of plants, is important for understanding ecosystems and their health but does not cover the entire scope of environmental changes driven by human and natural factors.