Abstract This essay defines the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. The paper outlines the ways in which George W. Bush's Administration's decision to not support the protocol's efforts to control green house gas emissions will affect the efforts of the rest of the world.
Abstract This paper discusses the problem of the decline in wild fisheries' stocks, in terms of the political and economic issues behind the problem and in terms of how this problem affects, and could potentially affect, the community. The resource management issues that contributed to the shortage are also discussed. Recommendations for addressing these resource management issues are proposed, and the proposed solutions are defended, based upon economic and environmental grounds.
From the Paper "In summary, the total world catch from wild marine and freshwater fish stocks has peaked and may be slightly declining (Hilborn et al., 2003; Larkin, 1978). There appear to be few significant resources still to be developed, and the majority of the world's fish stocks are intensively exploited (Hilborn et al., 2003). This is due, in large part, to rising fish catches, and to rising consumption, and trade, in this natural resource (Lazaroff, 2001), as the issue of fishing has become highly politicized in recent years, as governments realize fish are a valuable resource, and as such, they defend this resource as they would any other, by claiming territorial rights over the resource. A recent report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization noted that most of the world's fishing areas have apparently reached their maximum potential for capture fisheries production, with the majority of stocks being fully exploited (Lazaroff, 2001)."
Abstract This is a position paper on the positive side of skateboarding in urban areas. It cites points, such as it being an alternative means of transportation, entertainment for the youth, and an environmentally friendly pastime.
From the Paper "In today's society teens are faced with many types of profiling. One of the most popular acts of profiling is in teen sports. Teens are basically profiled for the type of sport they participate in, which the media describes as dangerous and harmful such as skateboarding. Skateboarding is one of the most popular and growing sports today but many cities are banning skateboarding from the streets and leaving skateboarders no place to skate since the public assumes that it's a great threat to the city. Society perceive skateboarders as criminals who don?t go to school, do drugs, destroy property and who are a nuisance to society."
Abstract This paper spells out the extreme importance of making every effort to save the world's rainforests. Many people do not realize the importance of plants and trees to the human and animal populations. Oxygen, our most important resource, comes from the rainforests. Also, the rainforests have provided many cures for diseases and are home to many exotic and beautiful animals. The paper argues that the depletion of the rainforests will eventually result in the demise of the world.
From the Paper "Global warming is causing a greenhouse effect on the earth. Since the 1930s the average temperature has risen at least ten degrees and even more in some places (Hartmann 53). Cutting down trees in the rainforest is making carbon dioxide in the atmosphere more abundant, because trees take in carbon dioxide. In The Last Hours of Sunlight: Waking Up to Personal and Global Transformation, Thom Hartmann address the problems of the greenhouse effect. "It is exactly what it says; the world is becoming a greenhouse. We are holding in carbon dioxide because there are fewer trees to absorb what humans produce" (9). "The way that humans are jumping on the opportunity the cut down tress it is like humans are trying to commit suicide by asphyxiation" (Bjorn 82). Oxygen is our most important resource and humans are not thinking of the consequences of their actions."
Abstract This paper examines the causes of pollution and what can be done to stop it, including some of the major sources of air and water pollution. A discussion of the solutions identified by governmental agencies and groups working to solve this increasing threat to our well-being is followed by a summary of the research in the conclusion.
From the Paper "There are many causes for air and water pollution and scientists divide them into two general categories: direct and indirect contaminant sources. Direct sources of pollution include "effluent outfalls from factories, refineries, waste treatment plants etc.. that emit fluids of varying quality directly into urban water supplies. In the United States and other countries, these practices are regulated, although this doesn't mean that pollutants can't be found in these waters" (Rubin, 1999, p. 17). Indirect sources of pollution include contaminants that can enter the water supply from soils or ground- water systems and from the atmosphere by rain water. These soils and groundwaters contain the residue of human agricultural practices (fertilizers, pesticides, etc..) and improperly disposed of industrial wastes. Atmospheric contaminants are also derived from human practices (such as gaseous emissions from automobiles, factories and even bakeries) and these sources of pollution are then broadly classified into "organic, inorganic, radioactive and acid/base" (Rubin, 1999)."
Abstract organic foods clearly have a benefit over processed foods or those produced using artificial chemicals or pesticides. It looks at how food today is more processed, refined, pre-packaged, and instantly available than it ever has been and how convenience foods are loaded with fat and sodium, not to mention all the chemicals, preservatives, and additives they contain. It looks at how even the United States government has recognized the benefits to be had in organic foods by forming an organization to help regulate how such food is produced.
From the Paper "Thus, chemicals in our food are obviously a problem. As studies continue to gather information on the specific effects such chemicals have in the long term, organic food is gaining in popularity. Even the federal government has given its "seal of approval" to organic foods. Recently, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released an organic-labeling campaign designed to implement a set of standards and guidelines for organic food, much like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does with regards to food production, handling, and manufacture."
Abstract This paper examines ways to stop Canadian trash from filling up our Michigan landfills and argues that the Michigan waste disposal companies are not justified in accepting trash from Canada and other states in Michigan landfills. Canadian trash and trash from other states is a major problem facing America's landfills today, and the author of this paper suggests we find new ways of dealing with waste, while finding new areas for landfills before the country's current landfills are exhausted.
From the Paper "Thus, waste from other areas would have to meet strict criteria before it could enter the state, and this would cut down tremendously on the waste coming in from Canada and other areas, leaving our landfills open for our own waste, and not filling them up as quickly. The opposition to the bill comes from landfill owners and waste industry associations, who feel they should be able to accept waste from anywhere. Clearly, the two sides must come to an agreement, and the Senate must find out how the people of Michigan feel about the solid waste from other areas coming into Michigan for disposal."
Abstract This essay discusses the following issues: how the Neolithic period and Industrial Revolution impacted the natural environment and what is meant by environmental revolution; the biogeochemical cycles for carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorous and the human impact on these cycles; and the overall value of the natural ecosystems for human survival and the significance of measuring this value.
From the Paper "The human society before the Neolithic Revolution (also called Agricultural Revolution) about 10~12,000 years ago, consisted of small groups of hunters/ gatherers who adapted to their environment and relied on the resources available in their surroundings. Their mobile way of life was suited to the raising of small families, which kept the populations in check and did not put a strain on the earth's environment. After the Neolithic Revolution, human beings started to live permanently in one place for the first time in their history. The dependence of the communities on small pieces of land for growing food put pressure on the environment. The human population began to expand exponentially since it was now desirable to have more children with agriculture requiring more "hands" in the fields. This impacted the environment further."
Abstract This paper examines how the energy crisis that plagues many American cities has been at the center of much debate. It looks at information about current energy sources, such as hydroelectricity, wind energy, nuclear energy, and fossil fuel. The discussion also covers alternative energy sources, such as solar energy, hydrogen energy, and biomass energy. It seeks to explain the expense, transportation, production, and storage of these energy sources and focuses on issues of practicality, such as current availability and renewal. It also discusses efficiency and environmental ramifications.
Outline
Introduction
Current Forms of Energy
Hydroelectricity
Wind Energy
Nuclear Energy
Fossil Fuel
Alternative forms of Energy
Solar Energy
Hydrogen Energy
Biomass energy
Efficiency, Practicality and Environmental Ramifications
Conclusion
From the Paper "Wind Energy is also a current source of electricity for millions of people. (Blackburn, 1987) Utilities can use the energy from the wind to propel vessels or to pump water. (Blackburn, 1987) wind energy is rather inexpensive especially in remote areas. (Blackburn, 1987) According to an article in the Geographical Review, wind energy is extremely efficient and is now the fastest growing source of renewable energy. (Pasqualetti 2000) Blackburn (1987) asserts that wind energy can produce energy for a cost of 12-15? per kilowatt hour before tax benefits come into consideration. (Blackburn, 1987)"
This paper discusses Sarah Orne Jewett's short story, "A White Heron", which illustrates the conflict between human development and nature through the eyes of a nine-year old girl, Sylvia.
1,185 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 0 sources, 2004, $ 40.95
Abstract This paper explains that the combination of environmentalist and spiritual qualities of "The White Heron" fit neatly into the Romantic and Transcendentalist genres of American literature. The author points out that "A White Heron", a story written in the late 19th century before the invention of the internal combustion engine, nuclear power plants, or toxic chemicals polluted the environment, predated the modern environmentalist movement. The paper relates that "A White Heron" also can be read as a coming-of-age story depicting the character development of its protagonist, Sylvia, who experiences budding sensations of womanhood during her encounters with the hunter.
From the Paper "Moreover, because the man offers her money in exchange for the heron, Sylvia is tempted with the trappings of the material world. Her inner conflict mirrors the overarching theme of the story that deals with the potentially antagonistic relationship between human civilization and the wilderness. Sylvia knows her grandmother is poor; they have little to offer the wanderer in terms of food and shelter so when he teases them with ten dollars, Sylvia and her grandmother naturally seem interested. However poor they are, however, they have sufficient means. Sylvia's choice reflects a mature decision based on the integrity of her principles and it reflects the romantic ideal of material simplicity."
Abstract Environmentalists argue that trade liberalization harms the environment. The decisions of the World Trade Organization (WTO), in particular, have been the subject of much criticism. This paper looks at the assertions of many environmentalists, using the work of Robert J. Carbaugh, among others, as a source. Three of the main assertions discussed are whether trade liberalization leads to a "race to the bottom" in environmental standards; trade liberalization conflicts with morally-conscious environmental policies; and, finally, trade liberalization encourages trade in products that create global pollution or "pollution havens".
From the Paper "Factory farming brings with it more pollution in every respect, for example, than sustainable agriculture. Factory farming uses toxic components to protect crops from pests and applies inorganic compounds to help the plants grow. In addition, the product of factory farms cannot be sold locally, so there is additional environmental pollution because of the long-distance hauling required. And that would be true for any product: if one is producing large amounts in one locale and moving smaller amounts to hundreds or even thousands of disparate points, then the opportunity"even the necessity"for creating environmental damage is greatly enhanced. Liberalizing trade agreements, by their very nature, impel production increases in far-flung locations."
Abstract This paper argues that humans, who continue to inhabit this planet, consciously and subconsciously are destroying the precious environment with the intent of making life easier and generating economical benefits. The author stresses that environmentalists continue to warn about over-consumption associated with limiting natural resources, the use of fossil fuels causing global warming, and deforestation as a threat to the survival of all species on earth because trees produce oxygen, a necessity for life. The paper underscores that there is an enormous gap between advocates of environmental protection and the advocates of economic development, who favor the use of natural resources to advance the economy and who are triumphing over the protectionists.
From the Paper "Environmentalists attribute our increased reliance on fossils fuels to generate electricity, heat and light homes and workplaces, to power our factories and to start our cars as causing the build up of greenhouse gases leading to global warming. Humans constant use of fossil fuels adds billions of tons of carbon dioxide to the air, intensifying global warming, and also results in climatic changes, coastal flooding, and have serious effects on all species. Durning also points to our over-consumption of woods and minerals as a factor behind destruction of tropical rainforest (an issue discussed in the following paragraph) resulting in extinction of many species."
This paper discusses how "green" cars are designed to reduce emissions, thereby lessening problems of ever-increasing air pollution, which causes asthma and lung cancer.
Abstract This paper explains that "green" cars are vehicles that drive just like any other vehicle, except they are at least 90% cleaner-burning than the standard vehicle on the road, thereby emitting a lower amount of pollutants into the air. The author points out that the most popular models, which are mass-produced on the market right now, are called 'hybrids' because these vehicles have hybrid motors that use a mix of a gasoline engine and electric motor with a large battery that keeps energy flowing to the electric motor with no need to "plug" it in to recharge; when the cars get to "cruising" speed, they switch to the electric motor, letting it do most of the work. The paper stresses the financial benefits, which add to the environmental and health reasons to buying a "green" car; the actual purchase price does not vary too much from the regular gas-burning model, and the savings annually in gas can be tremendous. Tables.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Current Quality of the Air We Breathe
Health Consequences of the Deteriorating Environment
Explaining the Need
Future Predictions of our Environmental Destruction
Identifying Those at Risk
"Green" Cars
What They Are
How These Vehicles Can Help "Clear the Air"
Financial Benefits from These Vehicles
Where Can They Be Found
Different Makes and Models Available
Concept Cars on the Way
Other Solutions
From the Paper "While companies like Honda and Toyota are more aggressively bringing hybrids to market, GM decided last year to focus its most advanced hybrid technology on its largest, least-fuel-efficient, high-volume vehicles models. It plans for them to reach showrooms in 2007. The Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrids have been rated at averaging 60 miles per gallon, which has captured the attention of many producers, designers, engineers and consumers. This is encouraging because automakers are taking notice of the problems with our environment and actually coming up with ways to help fight for the cause."
Abstract This report looks at the problem of global warming as a theme for research into the attitudes of the public at large about global warming as a scientific and media based issue of concern. The research is important because it can show connections or disconnections that the general public have about global warming theories and measure attitudes and beliefs toward this complicated issue. The objective of the current report or study is to give randomly sampled members of the general population a questionnaire about global warming and then compare results with extant reportage on global warming, to measure public attitudes. The experimental outline was formed using the qualitative survey methodology. Important or relatively interesting results include an apparent disconnect in public perceptions of the connection between ozone layer depletion and global warming. The current report introduces the problem or issue, explains the issue and finishes with a discussion and concluding remarks, including areas for future research.
Outline
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Results and Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "Working globally in concerned international communities is seen to be key to solving the problem and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But steps must be taken to reduce the threat of global climate change at the individual, local, state, and national, as well as the international, level. Steps could be as complicated as urban design and waste management research, or as simple as planting a tree. Many cities have voluntarily taken the initiative to improve the environment by implementing greenhouse gas reduction strategies. These strategies can help communities save money as they lower the risks to human health caused by global warming. People must be willing to work together from the individual to the international level to find beneficial answers and solutions to the problem."
Abstract This paper begins with a formal definition of global warming and then launches into a discussion of its primary causes and its effects. The paper concludes by briefly examining what measures can be taken to prevent global warming.
From the Paper "There are many theories about the causes of global warming. The most well -known is the greenhouse effect. This theory states that global warming is caused mainly by the anthropogenic or human generated output of carbon dioxide. The theory also takes into account increases in temperature due to solar activity. ( ibid) In essence global warming "results primarily from human activities that release heat-trapping gases and particles into the air." (ibid) The most common causes of the increase in temperature are gas emissions due to the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil."
Tags: increase, temperature, world, atmosphere, oceans, rise, deforestation, ecological, function
