From the Paper "The management of toxic waste is a serious issue which affects everyone. This is because mistakes in the handling and disposal of toxic waste can lead to environmental problems which threaten human life. The potential threat of hazardous waste came to national attention in 1976, with an incident occurring at Love Canal, New York. Love Canal, a small community near Niagara Falls, suddenly became an emergency zone when hundreds of houses and an elementary school were exposed to the leakage of deadly chemicals in the area (Kunreuther and Patrick, 1991, p. 15). The cancer-causing chemicals had been disposed of by a nearby industrial concern known as the Hooker Chemical and Plastics Corporation. In the early 1950's, the chemical company sold the land that it had been using as a dumping site. Later, the community of Love Canal was built on the location. In 1976,..."
Explores the roots of this ancient hypothesis and the Lovelock and Margulis theory, examining "Earth heals itself," James Kirchner's criticism and concludes that the hypothesis is infeasible.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 6 sources, 1992, $ 47.95
From the Paper "The last few years have witnessed a renewed interest in ecology and the environment not seen since the 1960's. A number of factors have led to this interest. First, people are more aware of damages to the environment. Pollution affects vegetation, deceases agricultural yields and inflicts losses on the timber industry. Studies have indicated that pollution may have negative long term effects on our climate due to the "greenhouse effect". "Acid rain" is affecting the world's forests. Second, people are more aware of the hazards of pollution to their lives and health. Third, people are more aware of the consequences of the depletion of species. Since 1600 A.D., thirty-six species of mammals and ninety-four species of birds have become extinct.. Fourth, people are more aware of the depletion of resources and fossil fuels and their impact on ..."
Examines govt. efforts to reduce toxins. Looks at the environmental Protection Agency, Clinton administration, examples of pollution & effects and monitoring air quality.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 7 sources, 1994, $ 47.95
From the Paper " Ideally, a risk-free environment is one where all the technologies that are being utilized work together harmoniously, so that no pollution or danger to the public exists. However, creating a risk-free environment is a complex task. Too often efforts to resolve one environmental problem fail to consider the effects this solution will have on other environmental risks. For example, although the industrial release of toxins into the U.S. environment fell in 1992 for the fifth straight year, waste generation rose slightly.. Furthermore, while scientists are working on a fuel cell power supply that could power the cares of the 21st century--which would use hydrogen and oxygen to produce electric power with less pollution than other fuels.--a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report raises the possibility that the so-called "zero emission," or electric.."
From the Paper "The Population Explosion
Almost two centuries ago, authors such as Thomas Malthus warned that overpopulation could threaten human welfare. More recently, such growth has been occurring at increasingly greater rates. Demographers now project that, if current trends continue, the world's inhabitants could number 8.5 billion within 35 years, and possibly well over 10 billion by the year 2050. Such growth will have adverse affects on both nonrenewable and renewable resources. Moreover, it is certain to cause severe degradation of the environment. Unless humans prove capable of controlling their own reproduction, the species, Homo sapiens, may ultimately be faced with its own extinction.
In 1987, the number of human beings living on the Earth passed the five billion mark. Since about 1600, human population..."
From the Paper " Many people have concluded that nuclear power is fundamentally evil (Morgan 7). Those who oppose nuclear power do so because, at least in a rough qualitative way, they have balanced the risks and benefits as they understand them and have concluded that no amount of readjustment in the organizations that manage the technology or in the nature and balance of the risks and benefits it brings will make nuclear power acceptable. Other people still view this issue as a balance of risks, costs, and benefits. Proponents of nuclear power argue that, with much re-education and some re-examining of current organizations and technology, the public can be persuaded to welcome back nuclear power (Morgan 7).
Although nuclear power continues to play an active role in the energy planning of other nations, the U.S. nuclear power..."
This paper discusses the use of tidal power as a cource of electricity: Technology, cause of surges, mills, caissons, barrages, turbines, costs and advantages.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, 1994, $ 55.95
From the Paper "Tidal energy has been used by humans for hundreds of years. In the modern era, the power is utilized for the production of electricity. The technologies involved are both proven and effective. However, with the exception of a tidal power plant at La Rance, France, the energy resource remains largely undeveloped. This may be in part because of the relatively high cost of the electricity produced. Only in appropriate circumstances will tidal power ever utilize its potential as both a dependable and enduring power source.
Tidal surges are caused by complex interactions between the gravitational fields of the sun and the moon. These phenomena occur in cycles of varying length. For the most part, the earth's oceans bulge along an axis which is approximately in line ... "
Discusses these in general and gives examples (the 1993 Midwest floods and the 1994 Southern California earthquake). Examines the impact on community infrastructure, basic services and insurance companies.
2,025 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 9 sources, 1995, $ 71.95
From the Paper "Introduction
Natural disasters come in many forms: floods, fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions and landslides are but a few of the calamities that people endure. It is when nature comes into conflict with humans that catastrophe results. The response to these natural disasters has been to invest in early warning systems in order to protect lives and property, and to offer residents and businessmen advice on how best to survive the types of disasters that any one area is prone to. Fortunately, not all parts of the world are subject to every type of disaster, which means that people in any one area have to prepare only for those disasters which are likely to occur in their area. Such preparation can take the form of developing evacuation programs and finding ways to minimize damage both to people, livestock and ..."
Abstract This paper discusses Red Tide - the common name for the blooming of certain species of dinoflagellata that have a reddish pigment causing the water to appear to be red when the massive numbers of dinoflagellates accumulate. The paper examines the dangers of Red Tide to human beings in the form of nausea, skin irritation and weakened immune systems. It also shows that Red Tide can be fatal to marine life, especially marine mammals. Finally, the paper discusses the effects of Red Tide on the fishing industry and the various things which are being done to try and control it.
From the Paper "Red tides have been completely unaffected by pollution, and finding a way to contain outbreaks has been a daunting task for scientists. Most recently, a Woods Hole scientist has been experimenting with using clay to smother the algae (Fairfield). This new method has helped protect the billion-dollar fishing industries in Japan and South Korea, and scientists are hoping it can protect the waters in the United States as well (Fairfield).
Until recently, the research has focused mainly on the toxins emitted, and the chemistry of the harmful blooms ? not on finding ways to control the blooms (Fairfield). While the United States isn?t a fishing economy per se, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimate that the U.S. will lose more that $1 billion over the next ten years because of the toxic algae (Fairfield)."
Abstract The Three Gorges Dam project, if completed, would be the biggest construction in the history of the world. The project will be the largest hydropower station and dam. There is a growing concern both domestically and internationally about the human rights violations associated with the displacement of people. This paper discusses why the construction of the Three Gorges Dam is a mistake and gives possible solutions in its stead.
From the Paper "The Peoples Republic of China has undertaken the greatest project since the building of the Great Wall and the Grand Canal. The Three Gorges Dam project, if completed would be the biggest construction in the history of the world. The project will be the largest hydropower station and dam. The project has been controversial since it was first proposed and construction has been stopped several times. There is a growing concern both domestically and internationally about the human rights violations associated with the displacement of people. An estimated 2 million people will lose their homes, livelihoods and their land. The project will create millions of refugees, flood homes and cultural treasures and endanger human health [Marcia & Joseph 1998].
The massive Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River in China will have a 1.2-mile stretch of concrete and a 370 mile-long reservoir, which would be 525 feet deep. The project will stretch two kilometers across the Yangtze River, stand 185 meters high, and create a 600-kilometer lake behind it. Indeed it will be one of the monstrous erections in the world. This project will cost more than any other single construction project in history with an unofficial estimate as high as USD 75 billion or more. Construction of the dam began in 1994 and is scheduled to take 20 years and yet another $24 billion. Much of what the project opponents both inside China and around the forecasted in 1989 is in full view for the world to see [Marcia & Joseph 1998]."
Abstract The author of this paper feels that the controlling of air pollution is not only a health problem but also an ethical issue. The paper discusses that the best solution seems to be the development of alternative fuels and technologies, which are not as harmful to the air, such as the hybrids and electrical cars that are affordable for everyone. The paper states that fluorocarbons, which are no longer necessary, must be banned around the world to prevent the loss of the ozone layer.
From the Paper "Limiting the use of automobiles is one way to cut down harmful emissions that affect air quality but that seems like an entirely too stringent requirement for most Americans, who love their cars. The ethics of this are varied. Americans conceptually understand they need to stop driving as much to clean up the air, but they are unwilling to give up the convenience and prestige of their automobiles. The challenge is to design automobiles that will help air quality while still allowing Americans their beloved autos."
Abstract This paper provides an insight into the coral reef, one of the most beautiful, living examples of nature. It discusses how it has taken thousands of years to create the coral reefs that are found worldwide and how these fragile ecosystems are in danger of disappearing unless citizens and the government take steps to preserve these habitats for numerous varieties of marine life. It shows how with the aid of satellites and concerned individuals, these living monuments will be around for thousands more years.
Outline
Introduction
History of the Reefs
What are Corals
How Corals Feed
Photosynthesis
A Fragile Environment
Forming the Reef
Where Coral Forms
Variety of Colonies
Architecture of the Reef
Darwin's Theory
Wildlife of the Reefs
Monitoring the Reefs From Space
Dangers From Algae
Other Dangers
Regrowth
Protection Act of 1999
Survey of Americans
Conclusion
From the Paper "Scientists are excited about the use of the satellite since it offers views of coral reefs that are hard to reach and observe. In 2000, when a fishing boat was grounded more than 1,000 miles west of the Hawaiian Islands on the Pearl and Hermes Atoll, scientists found it difficult to reach the reef to check on the amount of damage it may have sustained. There are numerous coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean that are so remote, that it would be hard to detect or study a spill or grounding. High-resolution imagery gives scientists a much needed tool to monitor these reefs that were previously inaccessible (Soliday 154)."
Tags: satellites, nature, marine, ecosystems, photosynthesis, darwin
Abstract Though the effects of globalization are generally perceived as good, this blurring of boundaries also generates concern. Globalization is much more than a liberalization of trade, engendering a series of significant social effects as well. These dual effects illustrate how globalization is much more than the liberalization of trade. This paper looks at one major result of globalization ? the centralization of international business infrastructures such as telecommunications and finance in what Saskia Sassen has termed the ?global city.? Using Sassen's theoretical framework, this paper examines the factors that characterize a global city and the role these new global cities play, both within their own nation states and in international trade. These factors are then applied to analyze London as a global city. The paper then examines the social costs of globalization as manifested in the city of London. It explores how development policies geared towards creating major capitals of finance have also resulted in greater disparities of wealth, by engendering phenomena like gentrification and the transnationalization of labor. These theories are again applied to the London experience.
Finally, this paper draws on the experience of London as a global city and proposes the integration of "social development" principles put forth by Susan Fainstein, to propose better globalization policies that promote a global city's progress on the international economic stage without neglecting the needs of the marginalized members within its community.
From the Paper "These increased investments also served to attract foreign banks into London, as well as highly skilled people to provide the much-needed financial and technical expertise. The concentration of networks and people also made London a center of information, where relationships between people and corporations can be built. Though not as significant as its financial resources, the network of personal and business relationships also helped London become an important business center. Not coincidentally, the opening of cafes, restaurants and other such meeting places also increased with London's growing economy, another indication of the auxiliary facilities needed by a global city.
Finally, in keeping with Sassen's observations regarding the darker side of global cities, the London government has consistently passed regulations that favor the economic development and the needs of big business, even at the expense of its poorer residents. This is illustrated more fully in its treatment of its worker and immigrant populations, and in the case of the regeneration of the Docklands, at the time the world's largest redevelopment project that eventually caused the bankruptcy of the world's largest office developers."
Abstract This paper attempts to prove that contrary to what most people think, air pollution is not a complex problem that requires complex solutions, air pollution can actually be resolved through preventive measures and individual actions of the people in the society. It outlines what air pollution is and the several causes of why air pollution has developed and has increasingly worsened over the years. It evaluates the need for coordination of individual action due to the large amount of pollutants in the air which come from people who consume and make use of products that contain chemicals and substances. It concludes with preventative steps that every individual can carry out such as preventing the emission of gas pollutants and replacing standard light bulbs with energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs.
From the Paper "The effects of air pollution ranges from changes in the geophysical composition and environmental balance of the planet to great danger in human health. Because of air pollution, water resources may decrease in amount, and when these happens, organisms and living things that thrive on these bodies of water will die or abandon the area, causing a disruption in the balance of nature, because other organisms may be dependent on the organisms that have left the area, and when this happens, a chain reaction will happen, and all other organisms will be left to die or suffer from the effects of air pollution."
This paper examines transportation policies in Washington, D.C. and London, then suggests possible improvements based on principles of urban development.
Abstract This paper discusses current policies and challenges that two major cities -- Washington D.C. and London -- face in developing improved transportation systems. After comparing and contrasting each city, principles of urban development are applied to suggest new and better policies for dealing with the creation of larger and more effective systems.
From the Paper Urban development is a vast topic that affects all individuals in an industrialized area. One of the most important topics of urban development is transportation. Some cities have successful policies to help aid public transportation while other lack resources and cultural beliefs about making certain policies for these systems. Two cities that have very unique ways of handling transportation issues Washington, D.C. in the United States, and London in the United Kingdom.
Tags: government, industry, policy, political, science, resources, city, infastructure
Abstract Discusses Hindy religious tradition in regard to ecological values of the past and applications to today's ecological problems. Hindu texts and rituals that glorify the earth, atmosphere and sky. Vedic concept of the five great elements. The philosophy in the "Bhagavad Gita." Supersensory states and knowledge. Protection of the world.
From the Paper "The Ecological Doctrines of Hinduism
Introduction
Many of the great civilizations and cultures of the past believed in the sacredness of our planet, naming their gods after the sun, the earth, the moon and stars, as well as the four basic elements: earth, air, water and fire. While we are inclined to think of the ancient beliefs and stories of these peoples as primitive (e.g., the Hopi Indians, the Maya, the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh, the Hindu Manu Simtri, the Chinese Sing-Li-Ta-Tsiuen-Chou), serious study is being given to re-examining these references today as ecological resources that we may have sadly overlooked.
This paper will specifically study the Hindu tradition, probably the..."
