It refers to the physical (temperature, pressure etc.) and biological conditions in which life occurs. The environment is an open system, capable of self-regulation and of keeping a dynamic balance, inside which energy and information exchanges take place. It includes non-living or "abiotic" elements (water, air, minerals, energy) and living elements among which producing (vegetables), consuming (animals) and decomposing (fungi and bacteria) organisms can be distinguished. The context in which the organization works involves air, water, ground, natural resources, flora, fauna, human beings and their interrelations. Note: The Italian word "ambiente" comes from the Latin "ambiens" (what is around).
Source: Glossario ambientale A.R.P.A.V.