Abstract This paper focuses on the ethical decisions that farmers are forced to make. Since the introduction of GMOs (genetically modified organisms), globalization, new technologies, and agribusiness, farmers are either forced to sell out or jump on the global bandwagon. The paper discusses the role of politics and biotechnology, including specific discussions about Monsanto and other biotech companies, in modern day farming. The effects of specific GMOs are examined along with economic advantages and environmental disadvantages of using biotech products.
From the Paper "The influence of technology and economic growth on agriculture is an issue that has been widely examined for years. Growing world populations and the need to increase productivity have put a strain on the common practices of farming. Since antiquity, the general public has depended on the productivity of farmers for food. Globalization and economics have forced an increase in the demand of agricultural products. With the development of these demands, corporations and government agencies have introduced ideas for better and more efficient production of foods."
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the book, "Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight: Waking Up to Personal and Global Transformation" by Thom Hartmann. Specifically, it consists of a brief summary of the reading, a summary of the main points, and ends with thoughts, questions, and a critique of the book. "Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight" is an inspirational book about our planet and what we can do to save it from environmental and social decay.
From the Paper "The book uses poetic and eloquent language to describe how the balance of life on Earth works so perfectly, if only we will let it. Hartmann takes a look back in time to illustrate why we are the very way we are, then explains how we have ravaged the Earth, and what is our hope for the future. The book is broken down roughly into thirds, with each third following this format of past, present, and future. Hartmann's thesis is simple: hope for the future. He believes by understanding how we made the Earth such a mess, we can make the right choices to make it better in the future, because we already have all the essential tools. The book is at once hopeful and frightening, soothing and motivating."
Abstract This paper claims that environmental oil spills are one of the most hazardous and preventable accidents that occur. The paper explains that, although there are a number of agencies that support the ongoing transport of oil via major waterways, by and large, such transport often leads to devastating consequences. The paper describes the importance of the establishment of stringent protocols for the safe transport of oil across waterways. The paper contends that environmental protection agencies need to work in collaboration with tanking and shipping organizations to ensure that every measure is taken to protect the environment from the hazardous effects of oil spills.
From the Paper "Many oil tanker companies and major corporations such as Exxon have adopted protective measures to help guard against spills in the future. Despite these efforts however spills, small or large in nature continue to occur. Exxon even had another oil spill that was much smaller, but a spill nonetheless a few years after the Valdez disaster. Most of the companies involved in spills argue that the environment and ecosystems affected can recovery quickly and efficiently, and that most environments can return to a normal state of existence as they were before a spill. It is according to Dicks (1998) unrealistic to define recovery as a return to pre-spill conditions but rather recovery is defined as the re-establishment of a healthy biological community in which the plants and animals characteristic of that community are present and functioning normally (Dicks, 1998:2). Generally the area will not have the same composition or structure that was present prior to a spill and continues to change over time."
Abstract This paper examines how the interpretation of the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules in dispute settlements has shown both the limits and scope of how a rule-making body, with a legacy of compromise and negotiated outcomes, deals with environmental protection. It spells out the WTO position on the trade-environment linkage and then reviews the key provisions negotiated under the WTO framework that relate to environmental policies. Next, it details the scope and limit of these rules by analyzing a sample of environmental cases interpreted in the WTO dispute settlement body (DSB). These include the tuna-dolphin, shrimp-turtle, reformulated gasoline, and asbestos cases. It also looks at how the WTO rules compare to those established under other Multilateral Environmental Agreement (MEAs) and how this relationship is significant as it highlights limits.
From the Paper "The preamble to the Marrakesh Agreement that establishes the WTO has referred to the importance of working towards sustainable development. The Members have recognized that "their relations in the field of trade and economic endeavor should be conducted with a view to....protect and preserve the environment and to enhance the means for doing so in a manner consistent with their respective needs and concerns at different levels of economic development" This statement contains an example of the legacy of compromise and the result of negotiated outcomes in the WTO. In the case of environmental protection there is a compromise of "sustainable development" embedded in the WTO Agreements and mandates that gives leeway to "creative ambiguities"."
Abstract This paper examines how there are a number of companies conducting extensive research and development of the creation of hydrogen cars due to a too great reliance on dwindling fossil fuels and environmental problems. In particular, it looks at how hydrogen fuel cars have a number of advantages over gasoline powered automobiles.
From the Paper "Since the first motorized horse and buggy, the automobile has undergone a number of changes in design and mechanics, based on consumer interest and other factors such as cost, availability of fuel, ease of manufacturability and the like. One of the areas that has undergone these changes is in power used to run the vehicles. The first automobiles were powered either by steam or electricity. The former had functional problems, and the latter were slow, heavy, impractical and expensive. Once the internal combustion engine was developed that used fuels such as fuel as gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, the other types of cars could not compete."
Abstract This paper describes the coral reef ecosystem, briefly discussing its history, structural characteristics, and how it benefits humans. The paper then discusses the current status of coral reefs, explaining how almost all the coral reef ecosystems are threatened because of pollution and over fishing. Finally, the paper talks about what is being done to protect the reefs as well as what still needs to be done.
Introduction
Structural Characteristics
Benefits to Humans
Current Status
What Should be Done?
How is the U.S. Government Helping?
How Can We All Help?
From the Paper "Coral reefs are one of the oldest ecosystems in the world, existing for more than 450 million years. A coral reef is a type of biotic reef that develops in tropical waters. Coral reefs are found in all oceans of the world, generally between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn because the reef-building corals are living in this waters. A water temperature of 20 to 28?C is needed for growth of the coral reef. Massive reef structures are built over thousands of years by tiny coral polyps aided by minute algae called zooxanthellae that live in their tissues, calcifying algae, and other organisms that secrete calcium carbonate and adhesives. The process of reef formation is heavily dependent upon photosynthesis by reef-building organisms. Once formed, the complex, rock-like reef framework provides food and shelter for the multitudes of organisms that inhabit the reef. "
Abstract This paper explains that hybrid cars are any vehicle, which combines two or more sources of power such as a gasoline engine, fuel tank, electric motor, generator, batteries and a transmission. The author points out that Honda introduced hybrid cars, the Honda Insight, which was created to increase fuel economy and reduce emissions, to the public in the United States in 1999. The paper states that hybrid vehicles with high gas mileage and low emission, the alternative vehicles of the future, are now available on the market; there are several types of hybrids available from the standard economical cars Toyota Prius and the Honda Accord to the SUV, Toyota Highlander and Ford Escape and as an option in the luxury SUV, Lexus Rx 400.
From the Paper "Since 1999, car companies have put alternative fuel cars and hybrid cars on the market in the United States. Some of these cars are fully electric; these cars need to be recharged at the end of the day. Some of the cars available are a combination of an electric and gas motor; these are known as hybrid cars. These motor vehicles are the most popular on the road now. The engine is started from a gas-powered engine. Once the car is moving the electric and gas power engine propels the vehicle forward, maximizing the consumer's gas mileage. There are also vehicles that use fuel cells, which are cells that change fuels into electrical energy. Many different fuels can be changed into electrical energy, fuels such as hydrogen, methanol, natural gas, and gasoline. These fuel cells never need to be recharged, only need to be refueled. Fuel cell cars are not in major production in America."
This paper discusses Michael T. Klare's "Resource Wars", which takes the old ideas of imperialism and the liberal economy and places them in the modern world, confronted with immediate shortages and conflicts surrounding of natural resources.
Abstract This paper explains that Michael T. Klare in his book "Resource Wars" states that, although society is often blinded by religious and political propaganda, the ultimate fight is for economic stability. The author points out that, using this argument, many of the United States' recent international policies supposedly aimed at the spreading of freedom can more accurately be seen as the United States acting to tighten its grip upon the world's oil supply. The author of this paper believes that Klare's argument vitally falls short because he contents himself merely to identify the root causes of future conflicts and provides few avenues for the avoidance of bloodshed. The paper aalso discusses whether alternative sources of energy can be utilized and the current supplies of water can be better distributed.
From the Paper "The core notion that privatization of the world's water supplies alone can solve the impending water crisis is likely to be false: "Water would be allocated more efficiently and wasted less if its allocation could be based on clear prices established by demand and supply. But the argument is also a bit too simplistic. Water is not a commodity like any other. Rather, it is inherently susceptible to market failure-that is, unfettered markets often will fail to allocate it optimally." Still, the claim that individual governments can remain capable of distributing water efficiently and free of pollutants is likely to be equally fallacious. The moral consequences of pricing water-essentially, placing a monetary value on life-although rather compelling and moving, remain unrealistically placed in a world threatening to reach a population of nine billion by 2050, and concurrently struggling to maintain stable economies and governments."
Abstract This paper discusses the causes, nature, and consequences of global warming or human induced climated change, and recommends responses. It discusses the discovery of the greenhouse effect in planetary atmospheres; the role of greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere and evidence for human-induced global warming. The paper also looks at the consequences of climatic instability, including disruption of global food production. Technological and social responses to global warming are also explored.
From the Paper "Within a couple of decades, human-induced climate change, better known as global warming, has moved from a theoretical discussion at the frontiers of science to become a pressing matter of global concern. The following discussion explores global warming in both its scientific and human dimensions. It begins with a discussion of how the so-called greenhouse effect was discovered, followed by an examination of the scientific principles underlying the greenhouse effect and the role of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and an examination of the possible consequences of climate change resulting from the emission of these gases, particularly carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere as a result of industrial energy production. This foundational discussion is followed by a survey of possible responses that have been proposed to limit or alleviate global warming, concluding with a set of policy recommendations. "
Abstract This paper provides an analysis of "Cadillac Desert", by Marc Reisner. It incorporates ideas of environmental justice, social justice. It explores the purpose of the book, which is to show the historical mismanagement of water in the American West. The author also addresses the issue of the scarcity of water.
From the Paper "John Wesley Powell was an early visionary regarding the ecology of the American West. He believed that cities should not be built in deserts and that the only development that should take place in an area was that which could be ..."
Tags: desertification, water, Olgalala aquifer, dam construction, environmentalists, development
Abstract This paper argues that global warming may not be as great a threat to the earth and human concerns as the popular press and some scientists imply.
Tags: global warming, greenhouse gases, environmental science
Abstract This paper defines overpopulation and explores its effects on the environment. The paper first explores how population density effects the environment. Then, it briefly considers overpopulation as it pertains to under-developed nations. Finally, the paper describes the dangers of population growth should the current rate of growth remain constant or increase.
From the Paper "Overpopulation in under-developed/third world nations has greatly affected the health of those concerned and the environment; most of these nations struggle to even maintain the status-quo, while living conditions decrease their population increases. "It is a cyclic process that is spiraling out of control. Overpopulation has lead to the spreads of disease and famine. As populations rise, the general health conditions decrease because fewer people are able to receive medical care. Similarly, poor living conditions and sanitation, particularly the lack of clean water, leads to serious outbreaks of disease. While working with the Peace Corps in Kenya, my brother became stricken with malaria after consuming unclean water. Although he survived many others in these poor countries cannot afford the cost of health care and the end result is all too many times death. If the issue isn't the lack of clean water; it's the simple task of housing all these people. In an attempt to feed and house these people many nations (not just under-developed nations) resort to clearing areas of land to make room for agriculture (to include irrigation), home developments, and the further construction of factories/industries (who will not doubt require the use of more fossil fuels). If the current rate of population growth continues, humanity will deplete the Earth of all her resources and cause its own extinction."
Abstract This paper analyzes the feasibility of switching from fossil fuels to hydrogen fuel cells. It discusses the ways in which a hydrogen economy holds much technical and political appeal and analyzes the many complications that exist in trying to make this vision a reality. It also focuses on the investment and political interest, especially among the Bush administration in the U.S.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Introduction: The Draw of Hydrogen is Significant but Not without Challenges
The Appeal of Hydrogen: Political and Environmental Bonuses
The Freedom Car: Hydrogen on the Road Not All It's Cracked Up To Be
The Myriad Issues with Hydrogen: Availability, Extraction, and Storage Are Just the Beginnings
Conclusion: Hydrogen Simply Not a Feasible Fossil Fuel Replacement
From the Paper "In January 2003, President Bush proposed allocating $1.2 billion towards the development of what he dubbed the Freedom Car, an automobile that would use fuel cell technology and hydrogen instead of gasoline by the year 2020 (Lynn par. 1). Currently, the development of this kind of a vehicle has been the primary push of the proposed hydrogen economy. Automobiles are highly polluting and highly dependent on imported oil."
Abstract This paper reviews the pollutions in Shanghai as a result of the poor levels of emissions control and the mass growth the city has under gone in past few years. However this paper also discusses what the plan of action is for Shanghai and how it is expected to achieve these targets. The writer points out that ultimately China has teamed up with the U.S. and learned a great deal, due to the fact that the United States has already dealt with these issues currently being faced by Shanghai.
Abstract This paper examines the American metropolitan transportation system and maintains that it is in dire need of improvement, especially in terms of reducing air pollution. The paper discusses how the massive use of fossil fuels derived from oil is becoming prohibitively expensive, but that the gravest consequence is the constant emission of poisons into the atmosphere from vehicle exhausts. The paper points out that this problem has become especially acute over the last thirty years and needs to be resolved through the use of alternative fuels.
From the Paper "The American metropolitan transportation system is in dire need of improvement, especially in terms of reducing air pollution. The massive use of fossil fuels derived from oil is becoming prohibitively expensive, but the gravest consequence is the constant emission of poisons into the atmosphere from vehicle exhausts. This problem has become especially acute over the last thirty years and needs to be resolved through the use of alternative fuels. The initial development of fuel-efficient cars was primarily in response to the OPEC oil crisis of the nineteen-seventies and the resulting dramatic rise in gasoline prices for American motorists. Up until the Yom Kippur War of 1973, Americans drove high-powered, gas-guzzling cars and since gasoline was so cheap no consumers were interested in buying fuel-efficient cars."
