An ecosystem consists of living and non-living components that interact and exchange materials between them. The non-living components include soil, air and water, while the living components include producers like plants, consumers that eat other organisms, and decomposers like bacteria and fungi. Energy from the sun is absorbed by plants through photosynthesis and transferred to consumers through the food chain, while decomposers break down waste and cycle nutrients back to be used by plants. Ecosystems strive for balance, but human activities are increasingly disrupting natural balances, threatening wildlife. Conservation efforts aim to restore balance by protecting habitats, wildlife, and raising environmental awareness.