Abstract This paper discusses how the Chernobyl nuclear disaster is one of the worst catastrophes to strike the world and how radioactive material was scattered all over, leading to a severe radiation hazard that was not restricted to Ukraine and the places in the immediate vicinity, but affected most of the nations on the European continent. In particular, it examines how the severity of the problem can be ascertained by the grave environmental implications and the serious damage it caused to the ecosystem.
Outline
Introduction
The Accident (A Brief Outlook)
Health Consequences
Long-Term Effects
Habitat Destruction
Radiation and Thyroid Cancer
Conclusion
From the Paper "Basically the health impact of Chernobyl accident has been studied under two different categories namely "Acute health effects" and "Stochastic effects". The acute health effects are those that were suffered by the first line disaster management team, those who had short range and intense exposure. The level of radiation exposure is measured by looking at the lymphocyte count in the blood. Radiation exposure severely reduces lymphocytophenia. (Circulation of Lymphocytes). As a direct result of the severe radiation the emergency workers developed erythema, vomiting and diarrhea and other symptoms of acute radiation sickness. Some of them developed reduced bone marrow function necessitating transplants."
Abstract This paper begins by explaining the problem of urban sprawl and defines this phenomenon. It discusses the disadvantages of this occurrence and what damage it may cause, both socially and environmentally. The writer finally examines methods that could be used to reduce the phenomenon and return to more modest building methods.
From the Paper "The constantly exploding city is a phenomenon unique to the last century. In a strange and almost illogical fashion, Americans currently "consume land at over twice the rate of net population growth" (Rusk, 36), building new housing developments and homes on the urban fringe outside megalopolises every day while old housing facilities in the core city are increasingly left empty and abandoned. By piecemeal most of the major cities in America are becoming hollow, their residents and even businesses emptying out into the surrounding countryside. This phenomenon is known as urban sprawl, and has been the subject of much conjecture and debate within the last several decades. Urban sprawl is considered by many people as a serious environmental and social threat, and considered at least problematic by most social critics. While unlimited urban expansion has some defenders, even those supporting the right of the populace to sprawl as they please tend to recognize that something needs to be done to mitigate the associated harms. Among the best recommendations to cure the ills of sprawl are the limited use of urban growth boundaries, the elimination of pro-sprawl governmental practices such as certain zoning requirements and funding practices, and the creation of regional rather than municipal tax-bases for necessary services."
Tags: environment, zoning, residential, construction, social
Explains how Wal-Mart is immoral to the patriotic American using key philosophical theories, such as utilitarianism, social contract theory, and Kant-ism.
Abstract In this essay, the author argues that Wal-Mart industries unflinchingly jeopardize the vital civil liberties upon which America is founded. The author makes this point based on the following premises: Premise 1) Wal-Mart condones the use of sweatshop labor for its goods, disrespecting the constitutional clause that all men are created equal; Premise 2) Wal-Mart endangers America's capitalist system by destroying small businesses and creating what is essentially a monopoly; and Premise 3) The construction of hundreds of new stores yearly creates serious environmental issues. In conclusion, the author of the paper suggests that a corporation, which violates such entities as equality, choice, and a healthy environment, simply cannot belong in a nation that holds them in the highest of regards. This, therefore, makes Wal-Mart immoral to the true and patriotic American.
From the Paper "As bewildering as it may be, there are many solid arguments against the giant retail chain we have grown so fond of: Wal-Mart. Even less known is the fact that the company unflinchingly jeopardizes such treasured American entities as equality, freedom of choice, and the environment. In the following argument I will use these examples as premises to contend how Wal-Mart is immoral to the patriotic American."
Abstract This paper describes what the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge actually is. It covers the pros and cons of drilling for oil in the refuge from political, economical, religious perspectives. It gives the writer's opinion on the topic, which is NOT to drill in the refuge. It then gives alternative ideas to drilling and backs them up with facts from credible sources like the U.S. Geological Survey.
From the Paper "An environmental masterpiece to be preserved, or an economic opportunity waiting to be tapped? This is the debate that has been persistent around the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for over 40 years. It is also a mainstream argument for many environmental philosophies. Pro-drilling advocates tend to take on Judeo-Christian beliefs, while anti-drilling organizations stick with conservation or preservationist values. These two groups portray their views over the internet using many types of representation, false or not, to convince readers their position is correct. Both sides have their pros and cons, but my opinion on the topic is that drilling for oil in the ANWR is a poor idea due to inevitable environmental complications."
Abstract This paper explains that the northern slopes of Alaska's one hundred fifty million acre coastal plain, which is part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), is abundant in both oil and gas reserves and is the number one prospect for United States' oil and gas development. The author points out that the use of wildlife refuges and wilderness areas for energy development has become a very hot topic, especially in Alaska, because of the United States' dependence on foreign oil. The paper relates that researchers and developers are seeking new technologies to drill for and transport the oil without hurting the surrounding environment in the process.
From the Paper "According to government estimates, the equivalent of one billion, four hundred million barrels of oil are tucked away under Teshekpuk Lake. This lake is Alaska's third largest lake. Teshekpuk, which means big enclosed coastal water. This is where the Pacific Black Brant migrates for its annual molt. Migratory birds, as well as moose, bear and fish take full advantage of this wild life refuge. Many make their home there and
others migrate to this placid lake every year."
Abstract The paper presents an assessment of selected issue fronts concerning Hurricane Katrina, focusing on human and environmental issues. The paper discusses the ineffective response of government agencies, notably Homeland Security and FEMA. It also highlights the physical facts of a hurricane.
From the Paper "When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in August and September the response of government agencies was ineffective and became politically controversial . The winds of the Category storm did great damage and the city's flood-control and energy ..."
Abstract This paper discusses how the use of solar power could free us from hazardous gases emitted by fossil fuel combustion. It looks at how photovoltaic technology takes the energy of the sun and directly converts it into electricity and how PV's are found in navigational buoys, calculators, yard lights, watches, electric fencing, streetlights, and irrigation pumps. The paper contends that because energy from the sun is free and readily available unlike fossil fuels, we can set up an affordable system that will provide free electricity for our basic needs at an initial cost comparable to alternative forms of energy.
From the Paper "A solar-thermal system collects the sun's energy and uses it to heat liquids. The heated liquid can be used to generate steam, which can then be used to turn turbines for electrical power. The steam can also be used for heat. In California, approximately 350 megawatts of power are produced by solar-thermal plants in the Mojave Desert. A well designed solar-thermal system in a home can reduce the cost of energy by as much as 85 percent and pay for itself in approximtely five years. Solar-thermal power releases no pollution and creates no waste, however in order for this system to operate, a lot of sunlight is required. "
Abstract This essay examines the problem of traffic congestion and how governments are dealing with it. Furthermore it analyses the main differences between the public and private sector in imposing tariffs and tolls, as well as how the optimum price of tolls is determined. Finally it suggests solutions that could reduce congestion in urban areas
From the Paper "Congestion is mainly a problem as a result of shortage of road space, and luck of such facilities to satisfy the needs of passengers and travelers. In other words congestion problem deals with capacity Vs demand.Solutions that have been used until now seem not to work. Although the development in public transportation means (busses, trains, trolleys etc.) has had a tremendous growth in big cities, the problem not just remains the same but also increases other external problems such as ?"accidents, noise annoyance and environmental pollution, which all together contribute to an excessive social pressure"?.Why people still drive in cities? And why can"t we build more roads to cope with the problem" What differentiate congestion under the public and private sector? What's the government role in solving the problem of congestion?"
Abstract This paper takes a look at the global problem of deforestation from the Amazon to Asia. The paper looks at which nations profit and how humanity loses.
From the Paper "...Behind the environmental dangers to the planet are the economic forces that continue the practice of deforestation for corporate profit on one hand, and subsistence survival of third world farmers on the other. An examination of the problem of deforestation shows how the world's forests are being impacted by economics."
Tags: rainforest, economy, environment, brazil, amazon, Malaysia, Japan
Abstract This paper takes a look at the connection between automobile emissions and the problem of air pollution.
From the Paper "Pollution from automobile emissions has become over the past few decades an issue of great concern. With a growing number of motor vehicles on our roads, great concern has been attributed to the effects of these emissions to our health and to the environment. Several of the gases emitted, which when present in certain concentrations in our atmosphere, can be toxic, therefore these ultimate concentrations must never be achieved. Strict legislation, as well as sophisticated control technology, has been implemented in the automotive industry in order to limit the pollution caused."
A persuasive paper describing the popular uneasiness revolving around genetic engineering. The paper provides counter examples to argue that genetic engineering causes more good than harm and that genetic engineering will lead society into the future.
1,845 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 15 sources, 2001, $ 59.95
Abstract This paper presents an analysis of North Carolina 's erosion of sand dunes. The author examines the causes and solutions to the problem and provides a brief overview of how sand dunes are formed.
From the Paper "The erosion of North Carolina's sand dunes causes definite and easily recognizable problems for North Carolina's coastal communities. The erosion of sand dunes and beaches from North Carolina's barrier islands and mainland coast causes problems for residential and commercial developments, which rely on these dunes and beaches for protection against storm surges. While hurricanes and strong storms have been few this year, in past years these storms have devastated coastal communities with flooding and strong winds, causing tens of millions of dollars in damage in the past decade. (Orrin 142) The best prevention against damage to homes and businesses is the protection and replenishment of sand dunes. It is important to remember that ?nature maintains the dynamic equilibrium of the beaches through the unceasing trade of four factors.? These factors are material, energy, shape, and sea level. (Kaufman 15) Dune erosion is a major problem for North Carolina coastal communities, but new preservation methods and building codes cause less damage to dunes and homes and allow damaged dunes to be repaired or replenished."
Abstract Soil is an incredibly important resource and maintaining the fertility of our soils is a pressing issue at the forefront of environmental science as we try to feed an expanding global population. Queensland, Australia is one area of the world where soil is being depleted and degraded at an alarming rate. Through an examination of this specific resource management problem, this essay analyzes the concept of impact assessment to develop fair, efficient and effective solutions to this environmental problem.
From the Paper ?The preservation and conservation of the worlds soil is a serious resource management problem. The sustainable use of our soil will be a major challenge for the human species for many years to come. When assessing the impact of any resource management problem and developing feasible solutions to that problem certain factors must be taken into consideration. Examining the fairness, efficiency and effectiveness of a proposed solution is paramount to its potential success. A solution for soil loss that is completely unfair to farmers or ranchers will be rigorously opposed and impossible to implement.?
Abstract This paper looks at the economic and environmental effects of the Hurricane Andrew, comparing it to other hurricanes throughout the United States.
From the Paper In August of 1992, hurricane Andrew swept through Florida and Louisiana causing more than 26 billion dollars in damage and claiming the lives of more than 60 people. Hurricane Andrew was by no means the largest hurricane to hit the United States, but what it lacked in size it made up for tenfold in power, making hurricane Andrew the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history ("Florida", Encarta Online; Rappaport).
Abstract This paper explores how acid rain is produced, what its impact is on the environment, what has been done by government agencies to help the problem, how effective these measures have been, what individuals can do to help reduce this problem, what are the current technologies for reducing emissions and how these technologies can be used to reduce acid rain in the future. It demonstrates that current attempts to reduce emissions from power plants will not have a significant effect on acid rain reduction; and will support the idea that there is not a single solution to the problem of acid rain, but rather a combination of technologies and methods will have to be utilized to have a noticeable effect of the reduction of and repair of environmental destruction caused by acid rain.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
How Acid Rain is Formed
Effect of Acid Rain on the Environment
How Large is This Problem?
What Has Already Been Done to Reduce Emissions?
Have These Measures Been Effective?
What is the Future of the Acid Rain Issue?
How Can an Individual Help?
Current Trends in Alternative Power as a Solution to the Problem
Summary
Works Cited
From the paper:
"Our modern world has many conveniences. We enjoy hot water, lights, computers, cars, and many other conveniences, which are now an integral part of our society. Many of us cannot imagine life without them. We seldom think about the costs every time we turn on a light. We do not think about the where the electricity is produced and what the effects on the environment might be. We simply turn on the light. As with all good things, there is a cost. One cost of our modern conveniences is acid rain caused by the burning of fossil fuels. The effects of acid rain came into the forefront during the early seventies as its effects began to be noticed on a global level. The impact of the effects of acid rain is considered to be of great concern to some and of little concern to others. No matter which side you are on, we all must agree that energy consumption will continue to increase globally and we must be weary of the effects of energy production and always stay focused on future generations."
