Abstract This paper discusses the policies and guidelines that must be established by food supplier companies. It discusses the importance of these policies due to the fact that food products offered to, purchased by, and consumed by the public must be free of contamination and must adhere to the federal and state guidelines that consumers expect. The paper specifically focuses on pesticides and their effect on the industry.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Literature Review
Key Content Issue: Pesticides
Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper "When a food supply company sits down to put together its policy regarding the environment, no matter how small or how big the company, it must rely on the best possible science - from independent researchers - to be certain that it protects not only its workers but the consumers who will be eating the food that is put on the market. Given that there is evidence that the EPA leans more towards the pesticide industry than it does towards the consumer, to be on the safe side the food supply company should reach out beyond the EPA for objective, verifiable data. The EPA still holds the cards when it comes to laws and regulations relating to food safety; but again, a company that wishes to fully protect its employees and the public as well, will be wise to include independent analysis in it's policy statement. What is more important, going along with the powers that be when it comes to the potential for humans (especially children) to become exposed to dangerous toxins? Or being on the safe side and accessing independently corroborated science by researchers who are respected and not part of the lobby group, or the government group, that is too close to the pesticide manufacturers? The answer is obvious; food supply companies must think of people first, when creating their policy statements."
This paper looks at the pressing environmental issues of genetically modified crop cultivation and deforestation in Latin America, as well as possible solutions.
Abstract This paper discusses how Latin America has been struggling with some serious environmental concerns over the last two decades. Air and water pollution, pesticide abuse, soil degradation and deforestation are some of the pressing issues in this part of the world. Furthermore, this paper looks at the case of Argentina to see how the country, which has been struggling through an economic crisis, has seen the bitter end of an environmental catastrophe, and its efforts at redeeming the situation. The drastic effects of genetically modified crop cultivation (in particular GM Soya) and deforestation, the two most important environmental issues, are assessed in this essay.
Outline:
Introduction
GM Soya (A boon or Bane?)
Deforestation
Solutions to Environmental Problems
Conclusion
From the Paper "The FSC, developed after the Rio Digenero summit in 1992, focused on the increased global requirement and the depletion of natural resources. FSC is a non-profit organization that offers environmentally sound solutions for managing forests around the world. Asides playing an active supporting role in developing the national and regional forest management standards, the FSC also works with local certifiers to ensure FSC compliance standards are met. In Argentina, the FSC is playing an active monitoring role, and thus the rapid deforestation activities from the paper and other industries, which were thus far unchecked, would now be carefully monitored and assessed for their environmental impact. The Success of the FSC initiative can be attested by the fact that six plantation companies in the country namely Santa Barbara SRL, Faplac, Fiplasto, Forestal Las Marias, Lipsia, Tabepicua, and the Union Bank of Switzerland have become FSC certified bringing a total forest area of around 131,000 hectares under the FSC certification process."
Tags: genetically modified, crops deforestation solutions argentina effects
Abstract The paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of regional ornamental perennial plants. The paper specifically discusses the Hostas, a group of ornamental shade plants with interesting leaf color and patterns that are perennial plants and are easy to grow. The paper concludes that the adaptability of Hostas make them perfect for any garden, no matter where it is located, and with their beautiful colors and blooms, they are a pleasure to look at as well as grow.
From the Paper "Optimal growth requires several environmental factors, and these can differ from species to species. Hostas are relatively easy to grow and maintain, which helps them maintain their popularity in the garden. Most Hostas do not need to be divided, as many other perennials do (think of daylilies and irises, for example). However, most Hostas do not reproduce well from seed, and so division is the preferred method of propagating these plants. They also do not need constant watering and fertilizing. Instead, they can take regular fertilizing, as two Hosta experts note. They note gardeners should use "A balanced granular fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 can be applied early in the spring, followed by an application six weeks later, followed by a midsummer application."
Abstract This paper discusses the problem of the amount of herbicides used in the United States agricultural process. It discusses how herbicide users reduce the amount of atrazine applied to crops by mixing isoxaflutole with the atrazine. The paper then specifically analyzes the results of the test to determine the effect of herbicides that mix atrazine and isoxaflutole.
From the Paper "The results found in the inquiry are fairly straight forward and further or alternative explanations to the results are rather limited. However, as with any experiment, there is the chance that uncontrolled variables affected the end results. For example, the mixture used could have been effected by such variables as the weather, humidity, pressure or amount of light available. Any of these variables would alter the validity of the inquiry. For this reason, it is important to 1) control the testing as much as possible, and 2) run the experiment several times to ensure validity through consistency. There is also a possible influence of bias, as the people conducting the experiment could have an economic interest in the results."
Tags: crops groundwater contamination, immune system
Abstract This paper discusses Turkey's economic development over the past few decades. The paper looks briefly at Turkey's natural resources, but focuses on their agricultural sector, their industrial sector, their services sector and their tourism sector. It describes each of these sectors and discusses how they contribute to Turkey's economic development.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Turkey's Economy Evolution Over The Past Decades
Turkey's Economy Overview
Turkey's Agricultural Sector
Turkey's Industrial Sector
Turkey's Service Sector
Turkey's Tourism Sector
Conclusions
From the Paper "Regarding the industrial sectors, it is recommended to take into consideration two major industries: textiles and clothing, on the one hand, and automotive industry, on the other hand. These are the most important branches of Turkey's industry and also present great potential for the future.
"Another aspect of Turkey's economy which should be of great interest for foreign investors is tourism. Turkey's tourism is permanently developing, but it has not yet reached its potential. Being the first European destination of 2007, with positive consequence on the years to come also, Turkey's tourism should be exploited more by foreign investors."
Abstract This paper explains that, as a collective endeavor, agriculture required that the Hopi work together under the guidance of ancestral wisdom. The author describes that the cultivation of corn and other crops was no small feat in the desert especially during summer months when rainfall was scarce. The paper concludes that, with life so intimately connected with land, the sacred aspects of agriculture permeated the everyday Hopi life.
From the Paper "Rains and moisture are integral to the survival of the corn and of the clan. Thus, Hopi venerated clouds as ancestral spirits and created kachinas (O'mau kachinato) honor them. Cloud figures pepper Hopi iconography and the Hopi distinguished between different types of clouds to distinguish those that deliver the blessing of rain from those that simply flank the sky. Cloud kachinas essentially "wear" the clouds on their headdress, and cloud imagery also decorates their sash and garment."
Abstract This paper discusses the very prominent problem of hunger that exists particularly in the third world, today. The paper proposes a solution to the problem of hunger that relates to decentralizing and localizing the production of food as much as possible. The paper then discusses the theory and logistics of the proposed program and looks at its potential benefits.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
The Problem
Demographics
Proposal
Analysis
Eligibility
Service Delivery
Theory and Specification
Projected Costs and Funding
Conclusion
From the Paper "As mentioned, $7300 to feed one person for a year may appear rather expensive. However, the potential benefits of the program should not be overlooked when comparing it with existing initiatives (none of which are sustainable). The figure represents an initial investment. This means an investment that will not have to be repeated year by year, like those for other food programs. After the first year, the operation should become self-sustaining, and no further investment should be required. Indeed, an added potential advantage is that there may be an excess of production, resulting in a further revenue stream. Whereas programs such as the food stamp initiative often entail the hidden costs of transport and delivery, this problem is eliminated by the proposed program."
Abstract This paper examines the effects of four soil amendments on the growth and yield of phaseolus vulgaris (yellow beans). The paper specifically analyzes the effects of manure, sugar, leached leaf litter and straw mulch on the growth of yellow beans. The paper discusses the method of the study and then looks at the results that were obtained. The paper contains graphs and tables.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Methods and Materials
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "The results of this study indicate that only hypothesis one holds true. The application of manure to soil produced a slight improvement over the other amendments. Sugar seemed to decrease plant production and yield. In order to come to a conclusion, in this case, one must consider these findings in relation to the body of evidence that is available. Field and lab results varied regarding the results of various applications of compost amendments. Manure stood out in many trials as a superior soil amendment. However, it must be cautioned that rainfall and local conditions can significantly affect the results obtained."
Abstract This paper discusses the timeline of Moche spouts based on categories proposed by Rafael Larco Hoyle in 1948. The paper first describes Larco's division of the Moche period into five phases and explains each phase. The paper then discusses those who disagree with the credibility of Larco Hoyle's methods for defining the periods of Moche culture. Lastly , the paper focuses on the development of irrigation agriculture on the north coast between 2000 and 1500 B.C.
From the Paper "This changed with the shift to irrigation in the Guaiiape phase, when aspiring leaders had better opportunities for the control and the accumulation of goods. Although the initial costs for building irrigation canals was higher than that of fishing and floodplain agriculture, once in production, irrigation systems dramatically increased yields. Therefore, with the organization and financing of irrigation construction systems, leaders perhaps could have extracted surpluses from canal users to fund additional political activity, such as monument construction, and to further enhance the socioeconomic status of their own households. Irrigation systems also provided more opportunities for leaders to control land and the flow of water. The political consequence was that in the Early Guaiiape phase political leaders not only could have controlled increased agricultural production, but also the distribution of land and water. With these newfound sources of economic power, they could finance the creation of centralized, hierarchical political organizations."
An outline of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine area offshore of California's central coast, which supports one of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems.
Abstract This paper states that the Monterey Bay region has escaped the type of environmental damage experienced by much more densely populated areas in California, but the human ecology of the region shows that there has been damage done to the ecology and that this damage is ongoing. The paper comments that the problem is found both on land and in the sea and other waterways of the region. A number of areas are protected as parklands, though many of the problems cross borders because they are airborne or waterborne. The paper also discusses other issues involving changes to the types of plants and animals found in the region, with exotic flora and fauna introduced through human action. The paper concludes that efforts are being made by government and private institutions to address these problems and to restore the natural habitat as much as possible.
Outline:
Introduction
Native American Populations
Current State
Land Animals
Parks
Conclusion
From the Paper "Today, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS) is a federally protected marine area offshore of California's central coast and extending from Marin to Cambria, encompassing a shoreline length of 276 miles and 5,322 square miles of ocean. This area supports one of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems, home to numerous mammals, seabirds, fishes, invertebrates, and plants. The MBNMS was established for the purpose of resource protection, research, education, and public use and is part of a system of 13 National Marine Sanctuaries administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration."
Abstract The paper relates that the arguments presented by economist Robert Thomas Malthus in regard to the English Poor Law can be expanded to numerous areas, including agriculture. The paper discusses the features of modern agriculture and Malthus' potential beliefs. The paper then shows how, due to the unique features of our contemporary economy, the liberalized markets and fierce competition, most of Malthus' arguments no longer find a practical application.
From the Paper "Thomas Malthus was a renowned economist of the seventeenth century England. His main areas of interest were demographics and the status of the population. One of his particular works was an essay that criticised the implementation of the Poor Law. This law was meant to relief poverty. It presupposed that a community's poor were identified and then aided by the wealthy population. The paupers were all brought together in workhouses, which were locations where the poor would live and work. The law was both welcome and criticised: the intention to aid the poor was noble, but on the other hand, it disadvantaged the working community and was perceived as an encouragement for poverty."
Abstract This paper discusses a legal case study that revolves around the Monsanto company (plaintiff) versus Mr. Percy Schmeiser (defendant), of Saskatchewan, Canada. The paper relates that Monsanto claims that Mr. Schmeiser knowingly planted Monsanto's patented canola seed by saving the cross-pollinated seed from the previous year and is seeking patent infringement damages, since he was not a licensee of the patent. On the other hand, Mr. Schmeiser claims that he did not plant or buy any seed from Monsanto, and that his canola seeds were naturally cross-pollinated by bees, wind, and passing trucks. The paper outlines the legal issues and arguments on both sides of the case and concludes that the main issue of the case is that Monsanto is becoming a monopoly. The paper argues that the farmers must take control of this situation immediately and demand sovereignty against Monsanto's control. The paper further argues that the farmers must formulate a class-action lawsuit against Monsanto, and stop buying seed or anything else Monsanto is selling. Governmental regulators then need to stay the course and find in favor of traditional farming.
Table of Contents:
Diagnosis
Focal Points For Action
Short Term Issues
Long Term Issues
Profitability Segment
2005 Data
United States Patent Law
Canadian Patent Law
Patent Rights
Alternatives
The Issue
Decisions and Recommendations
From the Paper "Canada does not allow higher life forms to be patented, yet, the Schmeiser decision, by a 5-4 majority, suggests that patent holders of components of higher life forms have found way around this barrier. This decision does an apparent end run around the prohibition against planting higher life forms by finding patent infringement in cases where a non-licensee possesses a whole that contains a patented part. This effectively provides a monopolistic protection of the whole to patent holders of the part, even though such patents are not permitted under law."
Abstract The paper evaluates some of the predominant methods of remediation of chromium contaminated sites. The paper notes that the methods employed are divided into two types: removal from the soil (in which various chemical extractants are used to flush chromium from the site) or immobilization in the soil (in which reducing agents are used to break down dangerous forms of chromium). The paper examines several of the more promising methods of remediation currently being employed, and concludes with a discussion and analysis of the methods in terms of their real-world applicability.
From the Paper " Chromium contamination, especially contamination of Cr(VI), is a significant environmental hazard. It will have a significant effect on the quality of the soil and the quality of the groundwater. Because of this, it is very important that effective and practical remediation techniques be developed that can chemically remove or immobilize the presence of chromium at the site. After briefly examining some of the methods currently being developed, which can be roughly divided into extractive versus immobilization techniques, there seems to be demonstrable promise in the possibility of cleaning up chromium-contaminated sites."
Abstract This paper discusses the history and uses of remote sensing. The paper specifically focuses on how remote sensing is used in agricultural applications from row crop to forage management, but also discusses its application in the fields of forestry and urban development. The paper looks at how remote sensing can be an invaluable resource for many business and professionals and how it has become a large part in how many people conduct their business. The paper concludes that remote sensing technology has evolved greatly over the last 30 years since the launching of the first space remote sensing satellite. One would believe that in the future, there will be many more advances and applications of this highly advanced technology to improve our knowledge of the earth. Several color images are included with the paper.
Table of Contents:
Applications of Remote Sensing in Field Crops
Remote Sensing in Other Applications
From the Paper "Remote sensing can be very useful for many applications. It provides a unique perspective of from which to observe large regions. Remote sensors can measure energy at wave lengths which are beyond the range of human vision. (ex., microwave, ultra-violet, and infrared wave lengths.) This energy, called electromagnetic radiation, is emitted in waves that are able to transmit energy from one place to another. For example, this paper, plants, animals and air are reflecting and emitting a wide range of electromagnetic waves. Remote sensing is possible from nearly any site on earth."
Tags: radiation, electro-magnetic energy, satellites chlorophyll, drainage areas
Abstract This paper provides information about adapting to precision agriculture, and about some of the basic systems that are used such as grid soil sampling, variable rate technology, yield monitors, light bars, and computer software. The paper concludes that precision farming is not an easy or inexpensive investment to start, but depending on your operation it can become a profitable and useful tool. Two color images are included with the paper.
From the Paper "If a field is variable in fertility, a uniform application rate will lead to over application in some areas and under application in others. The over application may represent a loss of investment in fertilizer depending on the nutrient and potential for loss, while under application can result in lost yield as well as a reduction in crop residue to the soil, which may lead to increased erosion or other related problems. The field recommendations that are made on SSToolbox are downloaded into a memory card or e-mailed to the fertilizer dealer to be downloaded on their own memory cards."
