To protect from loss or depletion; to use carefully and sparingly; to preserve, especially natural resources or energy. Emphasizes careful management rather than just protection.
From Latin 'conservare' meaning 'to keep together, preserve' (con- 'together' + servare 'to keep'). The environmental meaning developed in the 20th century with growing awareness of resource limitations and ecological responsibility.
While 'preserve' means guarding beforehand (prae-), 'conserve' means keeping together (con-)! Preservation is like putting something in a protective bubble, while conservation is like carefully managing a shared resource so everyone can benefit together.
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