The traditional view of evolution, based on Darwin, is that the environment influences the living things in that environment. According to Darwin, the survival of a species depends on its ability to adapt to the environment - and to changes in that environment. The Gaia hypothesis goes beyond this - it says that living things affect the environment as much as the environment affects living things.

Have a look at some of these issues below. They look at situations where we - people - are changing our environment. Then make your own comments - based on your understanding of the Gaia hypothesis - about what you think is happening - and why.