Abstract This paper looks at floods in general, their possible causes and general impact. The paper then takes a look at the 2002 flood that drowned Dresden and Prague, in particular, and explains that this flood greatly illustrates both the severity and impact of river floods and that of the changing climate. The paper also briefly touches on the media coverage at the time.
From the Paper "Most simply put, the cause of river flood disasters is rainfall. River floods normally result directly or indirectly from climatological events, such as excessive or prolonged rainfall, snowmelt, or a combination of the two. Therefore, most floods occur in spring and early summer, during the periods of snow- and icemelt. Other factors may be ice jams, landslides or the failure of dams and control works. Floods in river valleys occur as a result of a rapidly increased stream flow that exceeds the streams capacity and overspills. Meanwhile, the water-table may rise above the ground surface, when upstream river basins were already saturated from earlier rains. This is often the precursor for overspilling as the ground can no longer absorb the excess water. In urban areas, flooding often results from overspilling but may also be a result of surcharged stormwater drains."
Abstract This paper refers to a number of sub-Saharan African examples and discusses the scope of what geo-information science (GIS) has yet to offer such developing regions. It suggests that GIS is no different than any other technological innovations available to Third World countries. The paper also describes the ways in which GIS is limited by matters of application, interpretation and general human error.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Development Complications
What Remains the Same
Post-1989 Restructuring and 'Growth'
Water and the Future
Beyond Economics - Important Development Factors
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper " Also, geo-information science methods may be more applicable at some times in matters having little to do with development as discussed. For example, spatial information visualization techniques may be more useful, for the time being, in assessing refugee flows across national borders, as the purposes to which countries hopes to devote them and to provide but one of many examples, how does one plan development with or without GIS input for border areas of Congo now settled by refugees from Rwanda, invited and uninvited? In the case of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe's self-styled government has created a condition of relative starvation, accepted much military aid from the People's Republic of China towards an unknown but nerve-wracking political undertaking, the world waiting to know how much food aid may be permitted into the country, in the next year or so. In 2006, it was announced that with Chinese technology, Internet usage in Zimbabwe would be 'bugged' and modem use most limited on account of Mugabe's fears concerning his opposition. (BBC: 2006) Clearly, this kind of regime or overall environment does not bode well for any sort of development or studies towards future planning; earlier, like various other African regimes, Zimbabwe has forced foreign journalists and other observers and occasional NGO aid workers to leave the country."
Abstract The paper explores whether or not coal power can ever become a sustainable technology. The paper defines sustainability and explains that although coal power plants pollute the atmosphere, new technologies have made the idea of environmentally responsible coal power plants a possibility. The paper concludes that the use of coal in hyper-efficient gasification plants seems to be a viable, sustainable option.
From the Paper "First we must articulate a conception of sustainability, a definition if you will. Conclusions about coal's sustainability will be largely arbitrary unless we establish from the outset a clear sense of what it means to be sustainable. This will provide the framework with which coal's potential to be a sustainable option can be evaluated. It is naive to think that sustainability is defined as an either-or proposition. Too often, definitions of sustainability imagine that a process, technology, or ideology is either sustainable or it is not."
Abstract The paper looks at the three main mechanical processes of desalination commonly used today: electrodialysis reversal, thermal desalination and reverse osmosis. The paper discusses how the preexisting water supply was not enough for Perth, Australia to handle all the new people moving to the city. The paper describes how Perth began using the desalination process of reverse osmosis to treat its seawater. The paper examines the problems of costs and energy sources as well as their solutions. The paper concludes that Perth's new reverse osmosis plant has proven to other parts of the world that desalination can be a clean, efficient and cost-effective process.
From the Paper "Desalination is a mechanical process by which saltwater from oceans can be converted into drinking water for human consumption by removing the salt. There are three main mechanical processes of desalination commonly used today; electrodialysis reversal, thermal desalination, and reverse osmosis.
"Electrodialysis reversal is the most intricate and cost effective desalination system of the three commonly used processes. Electricity is used to ionicly charge the salt in the seawater molecules, and then it is passed through an ion permeable membrane filtering the charged salt molecules. On the other side of the membrane, the water is clean and safe to drink. This process is problematic because of its extensive use of electricity, which is expensive and sometimes unavailable."
Tags: electrodialysis, reversal, thermal, costs, energy, sources, water
Abstract This paper examines the climate threat of global warming on three different levels. First, on a local level, it examines the climate in Brisbane, Australia, a city that has experienced considerate climactic upheaval in recent years. Second, it examines the climate of Australia as a whole, a hot continent once renowned for its position below the largest hole in the ozone layer. Third, it examines the global climate. The paper maintains that, at local, national and international levels, climate threats are a very important, current concern. The paper concludes that, though climate threat has represented itself in Australia and Brisbane primarily under the guise of drought, heat, and decreased rain levels, on a global level this threat is represented by a wider variety of problems.
Outline:
Introduction
The Local Community: Brisbane
Throughout the Nation: Australia
Across the Globe
Maps (Appendix 1-3)
From the Paper "The map of Brisbane (Appendix 1) demonstrates the water shortage problem in Brisbane. Climactically, this is one of Brisbane's biggest threats, as the city turns to the possibility of recycling sewage for drinking water. Light scattered rainfall is observable on the map south of Brisbane, towards the Gold Coast, in the Beenleigh, Logan and Coomera regions - though this rain stops short of Southport. Queensland mainland to the north of the map is experiencing no rain - a problem which has plagued farmers in the region for some time. Brisbane and the Greater Brisbane Area (Archerfield and Boondall) are also experiencing no rain. Scattered showers are continually hitting the same areas around Brisbane - the Gold Coast and some of the islands off the coast. The same local areas (Brisbane, and inland and north Queensland) are continually suffering, on the other hand, from high temperatures and no water."
Abstract In this article the writer discusses the geomorphology of the Bonnechere caves in Eastern Ontario. Particularly, the paper examines the landscape features of the Bonnechere Caves and looks at what that appears to tell us about the forces acting upon the caves, the Bonnechere River and upon the Ottawa-Bonnechere corridor more commonly known as the Ottawa-Bonnechere graben. The writer then enters into a more detailed discussion of the formation of the caves themselves and how they have evolved over time. In the final analysis, the writer maintains that the Bonnechere Caves need to be situated within their proper geo-morphological context; that is to say, they must be understood as being - however notable - simply a simulacrum of enormously powerful tectonic and climactic shifts that re-formed the topography of Eastern Ontario long before the first humans arrived in the area.
From the Paper "Continuing onward, the landscape of the region also offers a peek at the isolation and undisturbed existence of the area for many millennia. To wit, given the geographic distance of the Bonnechere Caves, even today, from large metropolitan areas, it may be inferred that the landscape of the region was daunting and thus rarely penetrated by human beings; more than that, the boreal woodlands of the area were of such a nature that sedentary communities would have been largely impossible prior to the nineteenth century. Seen in that light, the pristine condition of the Bonnechere Caves until well into the nineteenth century is a tribute to the ability of natural geography to protect vulnerable ecologies and subterranean worlds from the depredation of humans."
A look at how Christians throughout Europe responded to natural disasters and the ways in which they contributed to certain widespread notions of eschatology.
Abstract This paper argues that Christians, during the late medieval period and the proto-modern period before the advent of the Enlightenment, responded to disasters by seeking out scapegoats and attributing them to something they had done to incur the wrath of God. The paper points out that the determination to find scapegoats for pestilence or crop failure invariably led to the witch hunts that extended over a period encompassing roughly seven centuries, from about the thirteenth century until well into the nineteenth century. To better understand this phenomenon, the paper examines the eschatological assumptions of the age. The paper concludes that Christian eschatology had the effect, for many centuries, of convincing large numbers of Europeans that the return of the Almighty was near and that righteous Christians would fortify their souls by rooting out those who were heretical, unfaithful, and responsible for unnatural natural disasters.
From the Paper "Between the thirteenth and nineteenth centuries, it is estimated that one million people in Europe were executed for witchcraft. Additionally, those witchcraft trials which have survived the passage of time appear to have frequently been conducted by ecclesiastical (Christian) courts. In the earliest trials, the institution of the Church took the lead role; by the end of the aforementioned period, it appears as though the Church was rarely, if ever, involved. In any case, whatever the amount of blame one wishes to affix to the European Christian Church, it would be inaccurate to suggest that only religious factors - however important - determined the actions of Europeans when confronted with a meteorological crisis they could not understand."
Abstract This paper briefly details the geomorphology of Hog's Back Falls. To begin with, the paper looks at the modern incarnation of the falls as most local citizens understand it. Going further, the paper subsequently looks at the prehistoric development of the falls' site and the odd creatures that made the location their home eons ago. The stratigraphy of the region is then explored and the paper concludes by pointing out how the features of the Hog's Back Falls site cannot be fully understood until it is placed within a broader geographical matrix that includes a large portion of eastern Ontario. In closing, the Hog's Back Falls is a good example of how the changes wrought by mankind often pale beside the changes wrought by nature.
From the Paper "In the crucial decades preceding this nation's official founding in 1867, the focus of attention was upon facilitating the commercial and mercantile growth of Upper Canada as much as possible. With this as the driving imperative, canal construction came to be seen as an excellent means of upgrading the province's infrastructure. Lt. Colonel John By took the lead in crafting the new artificial water-way system and the end result was not only a new canal, but also a new dam and a massive waste water weir capable of controlling the excess water of the Rideau River during its most swollen times in the spring ("Hog's Back Falls," para.1-4). Suffice it to say, this is what ordinary citizens of Ottawa think of when asked to describe the Hog's Back Falls."
Abstract The following paper looks at the Lemieux landslide that unfolded near Casselman, Ontario, in June of 1993. In particular, the writer looks at the geo-morphological history of the region wherein the slide took place and what characteristics of the local landscape made the landslide possible. Furthermore, the paper discusses how the local topography has changed since 1993 and the extent to which the academic literature has been able to offer new insights into the characteristics of the curious Leda Clay that makes landslides in the region of Casselman, Ontario relatively commonplace. Finally, the paper delves into what sort of financial incentives might be propelling research into the stability of the Lemieux Landslide territory and what the likely prospects are for successful development.
From the Paper "Because Robinson's article pertaining to the Lemieux Landslide was penned less than three years ago, it remains worthwhile reading for those interested in how the site has changed in the intervening several years. To start with, Robinson informs his readers that there has been considerable erosion of the once-daunting sides of the crater, and re-vegetation has taken place on various spoil piles. Not to be overlooked, the South Nation River has carved an incision into the remaining debris. Despite these changes, one does not have to look for very long to see how many of the striking features of the original landslide - most notably its length and the considerable width of its destructive swath - remain conspicuous.
"At this juncture, some more time should be devoted to the Lemieux Landslide's history - or, to be more specific, the events that made the 1993 landslide possible. To begin with, Robinson's discussion of the curious Leda clay found in large quantities in the area deserves more elaboration."
Abstract The paper relates that geothermal power is safe, efficient, a proven technology and does not pollute, add to global warming or involve great expense. The paper explains that the main shortfall is only that geothermal resources are not available everywhere. The paper also points out that promoting geothermal plants in countries like North Korea or Iran could help control the arms race by offering alternatives to nuclear power.
Outline:
Brief History of Geothermal Energy
What is Geothermal Energy?
Benefits and Shortcomings
From the Paper "Today geothermal energy is the primary source of power in Iceland, providing a majority of the needs for the capital Reykjavik, a modern city of 300,000 people located in a very cold climate. Geothermal energy is still used in Italy and its use has increased steadily in New Zealand, California and Japan. It has also grown steadily as a source of energy for Third World or developing economies as well, representing 27% of the total electricity generated in the Philippines, 12.4% in Kenya, and 11.4% in Costa Rica. (Dickson and Fanelli, 2007)."
Abstract This is a review of Christopher Rose's book: "One Dead in the Attic" - written after Hurricane Katrina, in which people tell their story in their own words and in their own way. This reviewer feels that the way in which the victims of Katrina are allowed to share their experience is what makes "One Dead in the Attic" a unique and historical account of actual events.
From the Paper "Christopher Rose is a newspaper reporter and through his own definition of his professional life he was inconsequential in his reporting of the goings on of glamorous people. Hurricane Katrina altered not only the course of his professional life it changed his character--the fibers of his being that made him who he was before August 29th, 2005. And me how did it change me--it made me grateful. Like all people I live in a bubble that encapsulates my family, friends and work. I watch the news from afar--it doesn't really penetrate my being unless it affects me personally. I am not from Southern Louisiana and I have never had to come together with my community to save my life. I feel I am a good representative of the people of the world that watched and made a conscious choice whether or not to help. Christopher Rose acted without thinking--he reacted to the crisis of Southern Louisiana and became one of the regions voices. Time has not quieted him--he has not walked away of forgotten the people of Southern Louisiana--he is still the people's voice. His book is filled with the voices, laughter, screams and cries of the people of Southern Louisiana."
Abstract In this article, the writer explores the historical interaction between Californian societies and the state's climate, its location, and its curious geology - of which its vast stores of precious minerals is the most conspicuous feature. Although many things can potentially be said about this relationship, this paper argues that human societies in the Golden State have been profoundly shaped by their interaction - and occasional collision - with Mother Nature. The writer maintains that one cannot understand Californian society, where it has been and where it is going, without understanding its interaction to the environment. The paper looks at how human societies in California have been shaped by the region's environment, with particular attention being paid to the state's climate, geographic location and geology.
From the Paper "Proceeding further, it must be borne in mind that California's geographic location has historically made it isolated - not least of all because wind flows made it difficult for pre-modern ships to travel up the coast, thereby discouraging travel from Latin America, Europe and the United States. At the same time, whatever human societies sprang up in California - especially those that rose to ascendance after the founding of the earliest American colonies - had to deal with the unhappy fact that the land they called their own was on the same continental land-mass as the rapidly-growing Americans; likewise, Mexico was not far of and they, too, had designs on completely subjugating the California territory. Interestingly, a case can be made that ongoing nineteenth century disputes with Mexican leaders and elites about the extent of Mexican central government control in California were scarcely less vehement and acrimonious than the disputes "Californios" would similarly have with unruly US settlers trying to turn the region into a possession of the burgeoning United States."
Tags: territories, socio-economic, commodities, region
Abstract This paper defines the word "tsunami" and discusses the world wide interest in formulating an early warning system to prevent tidal waves such as that which occurred in previous years, from ever occurring again. The paper discusses various ideas and plans to install such systems and comments on their efficacy. It also discusses a proposed study, which seeks to identify the most effective method of coordinating and implementing a comprehensive integration of public and private services to provide the people of Thailand with a tsunami early warning system.
Outline:
Introduction
Background to the Study / Cause of the Problem.
Statement of the Problem / Problem Statement / Defining the Research Problem
Research Objective
Conceptualization
Method of Data Collection
Method of Data Analysis and Interpretation
Reference Technique Framework of the Proposed Dissertation
From the Paper "A critical review of the relevant peer-reviewed, scholarly and organizational literature will be used to provide the background described above, as well as to identify any gaps in the existing tsunami warning system that are specifically relevant to Thailand's case. In this regard, Fraekel and Wallen (2001) emphasize that, "Both the opinions of experts in the field and other research studies are of interest. Such reading is referred to as a review of the literature" (p. 48). Likewise, Gratton and Jones (2003) note that a critical reviewing of the relevant literature is an important part of almost any type of research endeavor: "No matter how original you think the research question may be," they point out, "it is almost certain that your work will be building on the work of others."
Abstract This paper discusses how increasing the strength and improving the behavior of timber structures during periods of seismic stress is a worldwide concern and how structural collapse is one of the most frequent causes of death during an earthquake. It proposes a study to examines the hypothesis that timber bonded to CFRP will withstand the stresses of horizontal displacement longer than timber alone, or CFRP alone. It also explores new techniques of bonding CFRP to timber in order to produce a structure that can withstand horizontal and frequency displacement by earthquakes. The ultimate goal of the proposed study is to improve design to withstand seismic activity and minimize deaths in earthquake prone regions.
From the Paper "An earthquake is defined in terms of the degree of horizontal displacement and the frequency of this displacement. Song & associates (2002) used finite element analysis to test failure parameters of various types of reinforced concrete shell structures. They used a layered shell element with a pressure node. The layered shell element used by them can be adapted to simulate the laminated bond of CFRP to the timber substrate. The parameters of this technique will be adapted to reflect the materials being tested. This finite element analysis technique will be subjected to the seismic stress factors discovered in Ciccoti & Associates (2006) in order to determine the amount of seismic strain that the three constructed models can withstand. "
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that the growth and development of the marine industry has been sustained by the rise and application of newer technologies, innovative business ideas and incentives given by the government. The writer then points out that with the turn of the twentieth century, one witnessed marine resources being widely explored and exploited for profit making. This exploration and exploitation has been enabled mainly by improved and enhanced technological innovations, which included fully developed and customized boats, fishing, digging and navigational equipment. This mushroom growth has left behind the institutions that are responsible for regulating marine laws. The writer discusses that Governments have been unable to maintain their regulatory measures with the pace of growth assumed by the private sector. The writer concludes that one of the most successful endeavors for the promoting of marine preservation and marine life protection has been the Greenpeace project that has been pressuring international and national governments to make and implement laws that protect the underwater environment, the animals and the future of the under water life. There is still a long way to go and sincere steps have to be taken to ensure comprehensive marine conservation
Outline:
Introduction
Background to the Problem
Marine Conservations Organizations
The First Law: The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
The Second Law: The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)
The Third Law: Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act - Ocean Dumping
Conclusion
From the Paper " Organizations engaged in political campaigning to pressurize Congress to pass laws and enforce them countrywide use public awareness and attention to rally support for their cause. The more public support they acquire, the higher the propensity of politicians jumping in the marine conservation campaign. Coast Alliance is one organization that can be considered as an ideal example for organizations that are currently active in political campaigning and gathering local support. It currently has coalition partners (other non-profit organizations) across America, all of whom are striving for maximum results. Similarly, Earthjustice is another organization that has been proactive engaged in the enforcement of existing laws representing hundreds of other marine conservation organizations. In addition, Marine Conservation Biology Institute aims to rally the scientific community on one platform in order to facilitate scientific research and set agendas for policy issues and pass on accurate information to both government and public."
