Abstract This paper discusses the problem of automobile emissions and asserts that they are the biggest pollution problem as they are responsible for greenhouse warming and cause many diseases in humans such as heart disease and respiratory problems
From the Paper "The fact that almost everyone in North America drives a car which is gasoline-based is an example of how people are ignorant to this problem. Although methods to halt the automobile pollution problem should have already been implemented, the world still has time to switch from fossil fuel engines to cleaner sources of energy."
An outline of the responsibilities and research of the renewable energy source ESEP group. In addition to describing the roles and each member of the group, the proposal explains the urgency and significance of perfecting non fossil fuel energy sources.
5,415 words (approx. 21.7 pages), 23 sources, 2001, $ 133.95
Abstract This research discusses the world's current energy crisis. Fossil energy comprises the majority of the world's energy source; however, these fuels pose threats to the environment and do not provide a renewable source of energy. Analysts predict that the world will run out of fossil fuels in forty to fifty years. Due to this impending crisis, experts research and attempt to determine renewable energy sources that meet the world's growing energy needs while considering the technical, environmental, financial, and social impact of these alternatives. This report summarizes four of the most developed renewable energy options that could feasibly replace fossil fuels as a source of energy, including fuel cells, solar power, wind power, and hydroelectric power. Fuel cells use substances such as methanol and oxygen to react and provide energy; however, obtaining a clean, reliable hydrogen source and lowering the cost must precede implementation. Solar power harnesses the sun's thermal with photovoltaic cells to produce electricity; the paper focuses on concentrating solar technologies and the addition research required to employ this alternative fuel source. Wind power uses turbines situated in a field to capture the kinetic energy of the wind; as one of the most frequently used renewable energy resources, this solution may become feasible as prices decrease. Hydropower uses flowing water through a system of turbines and generators to produce vast amounts of clean energy, but its environmental impacts are serious and widespread. All of these renewable energy sources have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to producing energy on a large scale. Some of these factors include cost, efficiency, environmental factors, and political and social factors. The report recommends an increase in research for each of these fields, and concludes that these renewable energy sources will only develop if society as a whole accepts the financial burden that accompanies them. Overall, the financial burden of renewable resources does not compare to the devastating effects that continued fossil energy usage will leave on the environment.
From the Paper "As the global energy crisis worsens, scientists and researchers internationally race to refine and implement renewable energy resources to provide societies basic power needs that do not depend upon the consumption of natural resources. Within the next century, if energy consumers continue to rely on resources such as coal, petroleum, and other fossil fuels at the current rate, society will deplete its fuel reserves, specifically petroleum, to the extent that alternate power sources become necessary to maintain current standards of living based on power sources. Environmentalists, scientists, and the general public target fossil fuel usage as the primary cause for the environment's poor condition; renewable resources will offer an opportunity to prevent and possibly improve damage caused by pollution from power procurement. Globally, consumers are ill-prepared for our inevitable reliance upon renewable energy resources; moreover, developing countries in the process of electrifying their citizens will not have the means to progress in the same energy-technology development cycle and cannot base their tenuous energy dependence on a rapidly waning fuel source. In the absence of fossil fuels, people must rely on new forms of transportation and energy to power our increasingly
technology-based society. Renewable resources, such as fuel cells, solar power, wind power, and hydro power offers an environmentally-savvy alternative to fossil fuels, yet many of these technologies require further research, refinement, and optimization before we can rely upon them as a substitute for fossil fuels in basic power needs (SolarPACES 1). The problem involves ensuring global preparedness when low energy reserves mandate the use of renewable energy resources through proper allocation of renewable energy technology, ethical support from the public and the government, financial flexibility, and environmental sustainability."
This paper provides background on the basic mechanisms of speciation and then compares the three different ways that species can form in plants and animals.
3,360 words (approx. 13.4 pages), 5 sources, 2001, $ 95.95
Abstract This paper examines the three basic steps required before speciation: geographic or genetic isolation of individuals, either through a physical barrier (as in allopatric speciation) through differential habitat preferences (as in parapatric and sympatric speciation) and genetic divergence.
From the Paper "The Earth is home to an estimated 13 million species. The roots of this remarkable biodiversity can be found in the process of speciation, the slow accumulation of genetic differences that eventually prevents the exchange of genes between two populations of plants or animals. Speciation results when genetically diverse groups of individuals become reproductively isolated from one another. This isolation can be caused by extrinsic factors, such as geographical or temporal separation, or intrinsic factors, such as differences in courtship signals or dispersal ability. For both plants and animals, speciation can be allopatric if populations become separated due to geographic isolation, parapatric if hybrid zones are formed in areas of habitat overlap, or sympatric if niche specialization and reinforcement of reproductive isolating mechanisms takes place."
Abstract This paper explains the reasons behind the halt in nuclear power plant construction in the United States. Factors in the decline of nuclear power plants include raising costs, disposal of nuclear waste, concern for safety, declining public opinion and governmental programs and decisions not favorable to the nuclear power industry. Footnotes.
From the Paper "After a period of rapid growth in the nuclear power industry, resulting in over a hundred nuclear power plants being constructed in the United States alone, in the early 1970's the industry began to slow and even began to decline in the 1980"s, while the rest of the world continued to increase their nuclear industry capacity. In the mid-1970's the Atomic Energy Commission predicated that by the year 2000 there would be more than 1,000 nuclear power plants in the United States.[1] No new nuclear power plants have been ordered in the United States since 1973 and several plants have gone off-line since.[2] Between 1990 and 1995, 20 additional nuclear power plants came online outside of the United States, with an additional 36 under construction. Furthermore, Robert Newman, the President of ABB Combustion Engineering Nuclear Systems, in a October 6, 1996 New York Times article suggested that his company had been approached by the government of China with a plan to build as many as 150 nuclear power plants over the next 40 years.[3] Currently, there are over 437 nuclear power plants operating around the world.[4] Hence, while the rest of the world is increasing their dependence on nuclear power, the question becomes, why is the Untied States making a rapid reversal in its dependence on nuclear power" Several tangible factors have been suggested: the rising costs of construction of a nuclear power plant, the increase in time that it takes to construct a nuclear power plant, the disposal of low grade and high grade nuclear waste, public safety of living near a nuclear power plant, declining public support for nuclear power, and the fear of nuclear power plants contributing to the proliferation of nuclear weapons around the world."
Abstract This paper discusses how ecological footprints, effective ecological tools used to help maintain our world, impose many questions in sustaining the earth's life. Charts are included with the paper.
Defining Our Ecological Footprint
Dependency on Nature
Carrying Capacity of Cities and Earth
Comparison between Countries
Natural Capita: Effects on the Earth
Impact of the World Economies
Solutions
From the Paper "The world economy has a great impact on the ecological footprints of the world. Every country wants to obtain economic growth to produce more money. But in doing this, they have to deplete their natural capital, which in turn, is not helping in sustaining this world. As William Rees states, "there is simply not enough on the planet to sustain present international development trends using prevailing technologies" (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). So something drastic has to be done. As the ecological footprints of humans are already too large for the earth to handle, how can we accommodate the rising materials and rising in population, while trying to sustain the earth. Most analysts agree that it can happen in two ways: through a reduction in the standard of living or through the increase in material and energy efficiency (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). These two issues also apply problems, through cultural, economic, and social values. Especially in the more developed countries. To lower the standard of living would be outright rejected in the more developed countries such as Canada and the U. S. So indeed, most people agree that "global sustainability is achievable only through large increases in the consumption of goods and services in both poorer and richer countries" (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). But still a problem arises. There will still be inequity in the growth of the more and less developed countries. It seems the richer get richer and the poorer get poorer. A consensus seems to be emerging though. They say that the needed consumption will work if there is a reduction in the material energy costs of goods and services. "
This paper presents a proposal for improved student transportation at Rutgers University, using it as an example to present the necessity and advantage of low-cost student transportation.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 5 sources, 2001, $ 50.95
Abstract This paper presents a proposal for improved student transportation at Rutgers University, using it as an example to present the necessity and advantage of low cost student transportation.
From the paper:
"Rutgers University is one of the largest state universities in the country. It boasts an enrollment of over 48, 000 students collectively over the expanse of its three campuses. (Rutgers University Website) There are many benefits of being a student at such an expansive and diverse institution. There are also many detriments as well. It would be an understatement of almost unsurpassed irony to note that many Rutgers students own cars. Rutgers, being a state institution, has many individuals within driving distance to its campus. All of the campuses are for the most part, urban institutions. Thus parking is an enormous problem for both students and faculty."
Abstract This paper presents a detailed examination of IS0-1400 certification in business that enforces universal environmental regulations on all businesses, to standardize methods and other components of business from an environmental standpoint so that everybody is on the same page. The writer takes the reader on an exploratory journey through the process, the need and the benefits of it. The writer then provides an in-depth interview with a manager of a business that holds the IS0-1400 certification.
From the Paper "As the process of globalization continues, we have taken a close look at things we can do worldwide to improve the standard of services and products that we receive and build. In the last four decades we have come a long way in understanding how the things we do today are going to affect the future. With each passing year we have discovered more things that can be changed or at least controlled in the effort to preserve and present a livable world to future generations. Along the way to self-discovery and self-monitoring we also began the process of globalization."
Tags: protection, law, urbanization, globalization, technology, damage, earth, pollution, air
Abstract An essay discussing the various contributions of the Turner Foundation to the environment. The author examines the financial and volunteer labor that this foundation has offered and the positive impact on health and the local environment that these type of efforts make.
From the Paper "Ted Turner is perfectly happy to pour money down the drain ? at least, if it can help preserve the quality of America's waters, and especially the rivers that feed into and out of Georgia. The money contributed by his Turner Foundation along with contributions in terms of volunteer labor to the local environment given by workers from his companies have had a substantial positive impact on the health of the local environment and local waterways, especially the Chattahoochee River. His work demonstrates that corporations can be responsible and that the work of an individual passionately committed to a cause can make a substantial difference."
Abstract This paper looks at the problems faced by New York once the huge Fresh Kills' landfill site is closed. Private contractors will take the garbage out of the state by river barge, but in the mean time transfer stations have been set up in poorer areas of the city. The paper discusses the political arguments that have occurred concerning these problems and the huge profits to be made by the companies involved. Waste Management Inc. has a $6 billion 20-year contract for New York. It goes on to discuss environmental pollution from these dumps, industrial pollution in the Hudson River and the problems of carcinogens and clean-ups.
From the paper:
?In the garbage industry, Waste Management, Inc. remains king of garbage hauling after gaining a 20-year $6 billion contract in New York City. Waste Management Inc., based in Houston, Texas, is the largest waste collection and disposal company in the United States and has annual sales in excess of $12 billion. The New York City contract calls for the waste hauler to dispose of its 13,000 tons of garbage a day. This residential, commercial, and industrial garbage will be sent out of state once the Fresh Kills landfill on Staten Island is closed on Jan. 1, 2002. Covering more than 2,100 acres, the Fresh Kills landfill is so large it can be seen with the naked eye from space. (McCrory) It first opened in 1947 and is now considered the largest landfill in the world. The site is unlined and leaches thousands of pounds of toxins into nearby streams. Its odors reach into neighborhoods on both sides of the Arthur Kill, which separates Staten Island from New Jersey.?
Abstract This paper describes the fall of the Russian nuclear empire and the long lasting environmental effects which consequently followed. It focuses on the issue of nuclear waste disposal and the health hazards on the Russian population.
From the Paper "After the dissolution of the glory that was the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), the nation of Russia was faced with a most disturbing nuclear legacy. Issues concerning radioactive nuclear waste (its continuum and disposal) became hot topics for the post Soviet government. The health risks and environmental concerns surrounding radioactivity, having been downplayed during the Cold War period, also became subject to public scrutiny. "
Tags: radioactive, Cold, War, Chernobyl, Russia, cancer, environment, destruction, global
Abstract This paper is mostly about seasonal weather effects on humans. It discusses the correlation between long dark winters and suicide rates, seasonal affective disorder, the lowering of immunity from infections in cold weather and the spread of disease in hot weather. Also mentioned are the effects on animals of El Nino and how weather changes bring certain predators and prey closer together.
From the paper;
"Weather is the No. 1 talked about topic among people. Just for small talk and conversation's sake, the state of the weather is always brought up. Weather has a deeper effect on animals than determining what to wear for the day or providing a topic of conversation. During the winter, people claim to have cabin fever. When spring arrives, they catch spring fever. While these two terms have taken on meaning as figures of speech, there is scientific research showing that weather effects humans and animals on a physiological and psychological level. Weather changes alter mood, behavior, and general well being. In certain climates, people tend to be healthier than others."
Tags: El, Nino, disease, depression, seasons, temperature
Abstract A synthesis essay on the rise of toxic protists due to the increase in dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations from man-made pollution. Specific examples are used to illustrate this building environmental concern.
From the paper:
""In the Rivers and Coastal Waters of America an Ancient and Deadly Organism, Reawakened by Man-Made Pollution, May Become the Ultimate Biological Threat? (Barker, cover). In 1984, a small herd of cows in Montana collapsed and died in ten minutes after drinking from a pond coated with a pea green film. In 1987, three people died and more than 100 became ill after eating blue mussels from Prince Edward Island. In 1996, 149 manatees perished mysteriously off the coast of Florida. Autopsies of these endangered marine mammals revealed biological poisons in their brains and other tissues."
Abstract This paper discusses a plan to implement an emergency disaster management system at a large hazardous chemicals plant in New York. The author includes specific steps that need to be taken, assigns roles, instructions for emergency response, etc.
From the Paper "The plan should also contain detailed building plans of the chemical plant, so each team member knows the layout of the buildings. These layouts will include all storage areas, aisles, entrances and exits, windows; fire extinguishers, fire alarms, sprinklers, smoke/fire detectors, annunciators; shut-offs and master switches for power, water, gas, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) system, and elevator controls, etc. There should also be a detailed list of keys needed for entry to any and all buildings, and their locations."
Abstract This paper describes the effects that the brown tree snake had on the wildlife of Guam. The brown tree snake, accidentally imported to Guam shortly after World War II, appeared all over the island and ended up killing several species of the native forest birds that lived in Guam. This paper is a historical description of the development of the brown tree snake as a plague. It details the origin of the Brown Tree Snake and the terrible effects it had on the island of Guam. Moreover, this paper shows the environmental effects on the development of the Island.
From the Paper "Determining the number of animal species existing on the island of Guam prior to the arrival of humans has presented a distinct difficulty. From archeological excavations on the nearby island of Rota, scientists have determined that the original human colonists' domesticated animals extirpated many species thousands of years ago (Chiszar et al1997). World War II "subjected" Guam to naval bombardment so severe that some artillery fire leveled some forests (Chiszar et al 1997). After the war, extensive seeding of the island took place with an exotic legume (Leucaena leucocephala.) It permanently replaced native trees over vast areas (Chiszar et al 1997). The fauna of Guam seemed stable until the 1960's. At this time Wildlife authorities noticed the entire absence of birds from the southern one-third of the island. The boundary of the absence of birds seemed to be moving steadily northward. Birds were missing from the southern two-thirds of the island by the end of the 1970's (Enbring & Ramsey 1983). Thirteen years later, in 1983, all 10 forest species occurred concurrently only in 160 ha of mature forest beneath the cliff line at the northern tip of Guam, with a few species still occupying parts of the northern plateau (Savidge 1987). The early 1980's reveals many factors blamed for the decline in Guam's forest birds. Disease, pesticides, habitat loss, hunting, and introduced species evolve as the major suspect reasons. Elimination of the forest's mosquitoes that possibly harbor avian malaria or avian pox brought an influx of pesticide usage. During World War II to the-mid 1970's, the military used pesticides such as DDT and other chlorinated hydrocarbons to kill the mosquitoes (Enbring & Ramsy 1983). Pesticides might have caused declines in the past; therefore, it cannot be ruled out as a cause for the earlier reed-warbler extinction (Reichel et al 1992). Tests conducted in 1981 indicate low pesticide levels on Guam. Pesticides probably were not responsible for the current declines of forest birds (Reichel et al 1992). The years since 1945 have witnessed an increase in weedy species, though substantial native habitat remains in southern and northern Guam. Birds have disappeared from forests that previously supported healthy bird populations (Savidge 1987)."
Tags: biogeography, birds, brown, introduced, island, snake, Guam, species, treeWorld, War, II, forest
This paper explains how wildlife management and ecological restoration are thought to be the same concept, but their objectives and goals are often very different.
Abstract This paper uses the San Marcos Springs ecosystem and its endangered species as an example of how wildlife management and ecological restoration may seem to compliment each other but, actually they are seeking out different goals. It explains that in order to preserve the endangered native species, all of current species located in the ecosystem must be considered.
From the Paper "Wildlife conservation and management have been called the art and science of managing wildlife species, habitats, and ecosystems for long-term human benefit. The first system of wildlife conservation was an Eastern rather than a Western idea, developed by the Great Khan of the Mongol Empire (Smith 1976). Although the art of managing wildlife is centuries old, the science is relatively new and is becoming increasingly important all the time. However, science is only part of how we view and manage our wildlife resources. Social, cultural, political, and legal constraints and issues often have more to do with how wildlife resources are managed than pure science. Understanding these constraints and issues is fundamental to conservation and management. J. B. Kauffman (1997) stated that a successful ?conservation programme cannot be based on a preoccupation with saving the animal itself. Its total environment must be preserved.? This type of forward thinking helped change the idea of single species conservation and gave rise to the concept of restoration ecology."
