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Risk Perception and Dangers, 2005.
This paper discusses risk perception and assessment using the dangers of lead in children as an example of risk management.
2,310 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that risk perception examines the opinions of people when asked to evaluate hazardous activities, substances and technologies, which helps policy-makers by improving communication between them and the public, by directing educational effort and by predicting public responses to new technologies, events and new risk management strategies. The author points out that the fields that have the most important influence in evaluating risk perception are (1) geography because of the recent broadening of focus on technological hazards, (2) sociology and anthropology because risk perception is influenced by friends, family and co-workers, and (3) psychology because of the use of psycho-physical scaling and multivariate analysis techniques to produce quantitative representations or'cognitive maps' of risk attitudes and perceptions, which demonstrate that every hazard has a unique pattern of qualities related to its perceived risk. The paper states that, for the last 30 years, instead of asking how to prevent lead poisoning, the medical community has taken a risk assessment approach, asking, "How much lead is safe for industry to put into children?"
From the Paper
"The present 'risk balance' situation also does not appear to differentiate between different sorts of risk. For example, a one in 1000 risk imposed on someone is different to a one in 1000 risk accepted by someone. It is often the case that the risk from using a chemical, say, is borne by the population as a whole, whereas the benefits accrue only to a minority. This is inequitable, and a new focus in risk - allowing a product on the market only if it passes a criterion of 'social need' for example, would ensure that inequitable distributions of costs and benefits were reduced."
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Ontario Smog Plan, 2006.
A discussion of the smog problem in Ontario and a review of the Ontario Smog Plan.
2,636 words (approx. 10.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 79.95
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Abstract
The paper defines what smog is and explains that it is often found in large urban areas. The writer breaks down and explains the chemical components of smog and its effects on health and the environment. The paper summarizes the Ontario Smog Plan and discusses whether it will work to reduce smog significantly. The writer suggests some tips that citizens can follow in order to contribute to the goals of the Ontario Plan. In conclusion, the writer states that, although not perfect, the plan is a step in the right direction and that hopefully, with community participation and clever fine-tuning, the Canadian city's plan will become a model for future environmental efforts around the world.
Table of Contents:
Emission Sources
- NOx emissions
- VOCs
- Ambient Air Levels (ground-level ozone)
- Human Health Effects
- Environmental Effects
Particulate Matter (PM)
- Ambient Air Levels of PM
- Human Health Effects
Environmental and Other Impacts
Ontario's Plan
- Goal
Transportation
1. Drive Clean (MOE)
2. Gasoline Formulas (MOE)
3. Green Fleets (Toronto)
4. Anti-Idling Bylaw (Toronto)
Particulate Matter
5. PM10 Standard (MOE)
Industry
6. Stewardship Initiatives
State of the Environment Reporting
7. Air Quality Monitoring (MOE)
The Targets
- Transit
- Coal Fired Electric Plants
- Transboundary Air Pollution (Canada/U.S.)
- Sulphur in Fuels
Tips for contributing to the goals of the Ontario Health Plan
- Getting Around
- Around the Home
- Shopping
- Community
Bibliography
From the Paper
"Human Health Effects. Research in the US and Canada has repeatedly documented a strong correlation between high ozone levels and rates of hospitalization and worker absenteeism. Ontario studies have shown that in the months May to August, approximately five per cent of daily respiratory hospital admissions are associated with ozone. Other findings have shown hospital admissions linked to ozone occurring at levels well below the current national air quality objective of 82 ppb, with the probability and severity of health effects increasing with increasing exposure. Furthermore, it appears that there is no human health threshold for ozone, that is, there is no level that can be deemed safe. Populations more sensitive to ozone exposure include young children, the elderly, people with respiratory problems, and people active outdoors, particularly in the summer.
Impacts on human health related to high ozone levels are summarized below:
? respiratory system:
? lung functioning (coughing, shortness of breath, pain on inspiration, throat irritation, wheezing, chest tightness);
? chronic and acute bronchitis, asthma; and
? pulmonary emphysema;
? possible interference with the immune system; and
? headaches, burning eyes, irritated sinuses."
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Three Perspectives on Environmental Health, 2006.
A review of three different articles about the environment.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews, compares and contrasts three recent articles about environmentalism: (1) "Thinking Like a Mountain", in which biologist Aldo Leopold argues for environmental management; (2) "Places", in which David Ehrenfeld takes on commercial hunting; and (3) "Pollution Starts at Home", in which Stuart Leavenworth offers a scathing revelation of environmental recklessness for commercial purposes. The paper first provides a detailed accounting of the articles' premises and findings and then looks for similarities between them. The paper concludes that regardless of the reason society is using substances that change the environment, the impact will be deleterious for everyone.
From the Paper
"In "Thinking Like a Mountain" biologist Aldo Leopold makes a case for environmental management. In a narrative showing his progression from overzealous protector of deer to an advocate of preserving all species, he emphasizes the total environment and the effect that animal life has on the geographical characteristics of a particular place. When he inadvertently witnesses the death of a wolf, he is moved by the effect the animal's death has on the other animals in its environment. While the wolf poses a danger to the animal forms upon which it preys, it acts as a natural protection against overpopulating the area with one specific life form. On a more direct level, the death of the wolf probably will lead to the eventual deaths of the young wolves in its litter, since the mother is no longer there to protect the young. Leopold describes the interaction of the species on a particular mountain, which he uses as a metaphor for the Earth, and comes to the conclusion that the natural conflicts in the animal kingdom should be allowed to proceed. Wildlife management should be focused on environmental balance, survival of the fittest and preservation of the food chain. It is his contention that reckless or emotional wildlife control ultimately affects the total environment to such an extent that it can literally cause drastic changes in the landscape over time. He offers as proof the changes in the face of the mountain that occur as a result of the extermination of wolves and the resulting overpopulation of deer."
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Everglades Restoration Project, 2000.
An overview of the Everglades Restoration Project, persuading readers of the positive nature of the project.
1,896 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
The paper briefly examines government initiation of the project, then reviews the causes of change in the Everglades National Park since its creation in 1947. The paper lists numerous examples of environmental damage done before returning to an examination of the political and economic forces arrayed both before and against the project. The paper itemizes six individual work projects incorporated into the overall restoration project, including their estimated costs. In conclusion, the paper argues that there is no justification to opposing the project because it merely reverses damage clearly done by man over the last half century.
From the Paper
"There is no doubt that a good deal of the decline and worse are man's fault. A water control systems of canal and levees and even locks prevent water from flowing, as nature had intended, sometimes shutting off a water supply ample enough for a population like the wood stork. Even the rainfall is now sometimes shunted away from the Everglades. And, one must remember that the Everglades national park comprises only about one-fifth of the total Everglades area. Man is also responsible for pollutants, as a result of agricultural chemicals and other chemicals as the result of human expansion into the once-pristine area. High levels of mercury, for example, are now found up and down the so-called food chain, from fish in the marsh through raccoons and alligators. Among the disappearing species, wildlife conservationists point to the Florida panther, a species now so endangered that there may be less than 30 left in the entire state of Florida."
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"North American Indian Ecology", 2006.
This paper reviews and examines Donald Hughes' book "North American Indian Ecology" which focuses on a wide range of ecological and environmental issues faced by Native American Indians in the 20th century.
2,310 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper explores and details North American Indian life and culture as portrayed in Donald Hughes' book "North American Indian Ecology." This paper discusses the land issues facing the North American Indian tribes including overgrazing, erosion and assessments of appropriate land usage. The writer of this paper finds Hughes' book to be straightforward and concise in clarifying the characteristics of Indian life such as hunting, food growing and rituals.
From the Paper
"Tribes are having to mediate the disparate demands of their members and the industrial mindset of the BIA to balance forest use for economic need and preservation for cultural need. Tribes face many of the same problems as non-Native communities held hostage by the timber industry. Replanting has not always kept pace with harvesting on public or trust lands. The push to harvest old-growth timber is constrained by federal mandates to protect endangered species habitats, putting people out of work. Few local communities gain the "value-added" benefits of processing their own timber especially jobs and new businesses and when they do the environmental impact of mill sites has to be factored into any cost-benefit analysis."
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Forestry in the Circumpolar North, 2006.
This paper seeks to identify the main forestry issues facing the Circumpolar North at the beginning of the 21st century.
5,295 words (approx. 21.2 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 131.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the thin population and great wealth of natural resources, and how the Circumpolar North faces the 21st century with growing social and economic dislocations and increasing scientific concern with anthropogenic stresses on the environment and resources. The paper highlights that as a consequence, an emerging complexity of forestry issues are emanating from the threat of cultural dislocation and powerful socio-economic pressures impacting on local communities and regional and national groupings.
Introduction
Background
An Overview of Forestry Issues
Forestry and Social Issues in the International Context
Sustainable Development and Self-Determination
Health Issues-General Overview
Indigenous Health Issues
Education as a Social Issue
Conclusion-The Impacts of Change
Challenges Facing Arctic Communities
From the Paper
"Resource depletion in most of the fishing areas and in some of the reindeer herding districts in the Arctic has had a negative effect on local development. In addition, liberalization of national economies has led to the commercialization of herding and fishing rights, sometimes blocking access for local people. On the other hand, regulations aimed at securing access to resources for indigenous peoples have led to conflicts with non-indigenous community inhabitants. There are also conflicts between full-time and leisure-time users of the same resources."
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Nuclear Energy, 2005.
This paper discusses that the risks of nuclear energy and its uses can be complicated and frightening; however, there are clear benefits as well.
1,380 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the explosion of Chernobyl nuclear reactor in the Ukraine in 1986, has left a legacy that the risks of the using of nuclear power are so negative and so intense that it is often overlooked as the powerful tool. The author points out that the public concern about the use of nuclear power is that an uncontrolled accidental nuclear chain reaction can create so much heat that it resembles some of the most destructive bombs ever made. The paper relates that, although nuclear weapons are certainly the most commonly perceived use of nuclear power, nuclear science also is used to power nuclear vessels and for medical uses such as tumor treatment and tracer techniques.
From the Paper
"Of course, there are other medical uses. The benefits must be weighed in relation to the risks when deciding whether to use these medical tools. Although these benefits are clear to some, the effects of nuclear power and their resulting health hazards cause confusion for others. For example, radioactive waste is extremely toxic and is so poisonous that it can affect people 1,000 years into the future. It can damage the kidneys or lungs, and children are especially vulnerable because their cells divide rapidly as they grow. In pregnant women, it can cross the placenta into the bloodstream of the fetus. In plants and animals, the effects can be passed through the food chain. Humans take in these radioactive materials chiefly from drinking water and from plant and animal foods, including milk. Many fallout isotopes that reach the sea and inland waterways eventually end up in concentrated form in the bodies of waterborne animals and plants, becoming a source of concern when they are part of the human food chain."
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Wind Energy, 2005.
A discussion on the use of wind to create energy, which is becoming an increasingly important ecological solution to the problems of energy sourcing.
2,465 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how, although the development of wind energy is increasing at about 40% annually with supporting legislation in several major countries, there are two main questions to be answered---cost and the amount of land needed. The author points out that almost every region of the U.S. has some areas of good wind energy and states, lying on the Great Plains from Texas to North Dakota, have a huge wind electricity-generating potential, which far exceeds its current electricity consumption. The paper points out that environmentalists have found that wind energy can create problems of noise, land erosion, visual clutter and the killing of birds who fly into the rotating blades.
From the Paper
"One needs to look into the future for the real impact that wind energy can make in the U.S. There are models already in place which give some indication, up to the year 2006, what might develop in these next years. It would add some 10,000 MW of new wind energy generating capacity. There would be a regular schedule for installation, which was begun in 1997 with 100KW of additional availability, and culminating by the year 2006 in the addition of 2000 MW annually. There is a reason for accelerating installation year by year. First, while it will take time to organize installation activity, they cannot be negotiated and erected overnight. It will also require a stepped-up production, whether in the U.S. or overseas (Denmark, as was mentioned earlier, is not the major manufacturer and distributor of wind-energy turbines.)."
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Environmental Issues and Big Business, 1006.
An essay on the responsibility that large firms and corporations must accept regarding the protection of nature and our environment.
1,525 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the increasing environmental problems and damage caused by various industries and the need for firms doing business within those industries to conduct their businesses more responsibly when it comes to the environment. The paper looks at some of the environmental rules and regulations in effect that are intended to help safeguard the environment, but also points out that large firms and corporations must put more effort into and accept greater responsibility for protecting the environment.
From the Paper
"There was perhaps no more telling "pressure group" concerning environmental issues than President Clinton's final State of the Union message, where he mentioned the problems of global warming and the greenhouse effect's danger on drought, flooding, and the dangers of an increasing rise in temperatures around the world. He mentioned the automobile industry specifically, and urged them to proceed a little faster with the sort of new cars that would go farther on every gallon of gasoline that now fouls the air, even though some states like California insist on catalytic converters. It is interesting to note, in terms of California's restrictive automobile regulations, that the practice of charging as much as $300 for an out-of-state car to be registered in California has been proven unconstitutional. Nevertheless, anyone moving to California will have to install a catalytic converter before registration can be completed. While this may seem costly to the car owner, it has successfully reduced pollution from auto exhaust emissions over the years. Los Angeles, for example, is no longer in the top ten cities with polluted air and smog. (Houston and Phoenix are now among the U.S.'s worst air polluters.)"
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Prescribed Fires.
This paper discusses the use of prescribed fires to help control the ecosystem.
1,160 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper explains prescribed fires are relatively small brush fires, carefully planned and executed, which help the ecosystem by recycling nutrients from old wood and leaves, by controlling insect populations and by preparing the soil for new trees and grasses. The author points out that prescribed fires are not always beneficial because, when conditions are wrong, prescribed fire can severely damage the very resource it was intended to benefit. The paper relates that resource managers have learned to manipulate fire-caused changes in plant and animal communities to meet their needs and those of humankind, while at the same time preserving underlying natural processes and functions.
Table of Contents
Introduction
How it Works
Pros and Cons
Using Small Fires to Prevent Big Fires
The Slash and Burn Method
Concerns
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Older areas of timber or brush often have significantly more bare ground beneath the older trees because of the increased competition for both water and nutrients. This bare ground is subject to erosion during heavy rains or rapid snow melting, resulting in a loss of soil from the area and increased loadings of sediment in downstream areas. As with wildlife habitat, fire can be utilized to create openings and reduce the density of these older, decadent areas, allowing grasses and shrubs to move back in. The increase in grasses and shrubs can help hold both water and soils in place, reducing the overland flow of water, the loss of soil, and the sedimentation of streams."
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Philosophies of Ecology, 2005.
This paper compares Norwegian philosopher Arme Naess' ecology philosophy called "deep ecology" with Indian author Ramachandra Guha's ecological philosophy of "anthropocentrism".
2,540 words (approx. 10.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Arme Naess' philosophy of "deep ecology" encourages respect for the environment, not because humans depend on nature, but because nature and its inhabitants have inherent value. The author points out that Ramachandra Guha's ecological philosophy of "anthropocentrism" declares that all environmental responsibility is derived from human interests alone, which challenges this "deep ecology" philosophy. The paper concludes that Ramachandra Guha, who alleges that "shallow ecology" is sufficient for providing a satisfactory ethic of obligation and concern for the non-human world, is not rational; rather the concept of "deep ecology" needs to be extended especially toward non-human individuals, wilderness areas and across time and species.
From the Paper
"Assuming characteristically anthropocentric perspectives and values is a defect, we should, instead, assume a biocentric perspective. We should certainly abandon crude conceptions of human needs that equate them with the sort of needs that are satisfied by extravagant resource use. One of the problems with shallow ecology lies in anthropocentrism, specifically the fact that they are characteristically short-term, sectional, and self-regarding. Suppose that astronomers detect a modest asteroid on collision course with Earth. The impending collision would be perfectly natural. Such periodic disruptive events are natural, though they probably destroy most of the then extant large life forms. These times of renewal provide opportunities for smaller, flexible organisms to radiate opportunistically into vacated niches, and life goes on. There is little doubt that our demise would provide comparable opportunities for development that we currently prevent. Even then, we should step aside so that evolution can continue on its majestic course."
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Landfills, 2005.
This paper discusses the environmental impact of landfills.
2,750 words (approx. 11.0 pages), 32 sources, MLA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, at one time, there were no problems with landfills because trash, such as wood, paper, oxidizable metals and organic garbage, was biodegradable; now, Styrofoam and other plastic based wrappings and containers, in which almost everything is over-wrapped, survive decomposition for decades and decades even when crushed. The author points out the problems of trash handle in the 21st century are: (1) Landfills are filling up at an astronomical rate, (2) they are not decomposing at the rate they used to before non-biodegradable items were being added, (3) because of this inconsistent rate of biodegradability, many landfills are developing large pockets of methane gas and leachate or "garbage juice", which is a potential threat to the ground water and (4) companies are dumping highly toxic materials in the landfill. The paper stresses that the only ways we are going to make landfills nearly obsolete are by recycling, which must be supported by very strong recycling laws, and by seeking improved technologies for waste disposal and long-term chemical contamination.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Hazardous Waste and Landfills
Problems with Non Hazardous Landfills
Conclusion
From the Paper
"According to the group "Make Less Waste", waste prevention is any practice that reduces the amount or toxicity of waste, including making goods last longer, reusing products and reducing packaging. It's a good way to save money, reduce pollution and conserve energy. They point out some ways we can reduce the amount of waste we generate. Some suggestions include avoiding "over-packaged" products. We should look for the most purposeful, least wasteful packaging. We should re-use or refuse shopping bags and bring your own bags. One of the best ways of making less waste is to avoid disposable versions of razors, pens, lighters, batteries, plates, cups, napkins and diapers. We cam choose products made from recycled material and buy products in glass, steel, or aluminum because all of these products have some recycled content and can be recycled. If we buy concentrates, "economy" sizes, and products selected from bulk bin, we save on packaging waste. To reduce fast food packaging, ask that your fast food be wrapped only in paper and refuse bags and Styrofoam boxes. Instead of throwing them away, donate used items such as clothes, furniture and books to charitable organizations."
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Second Hand Smoke, 2006.
A look at the devastating effects that inhaling second hand smoke has on the health of millions of Americans.
1,764 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This essay discusses the fate of the millions of Americans and their families that are in danger from the effects of second hand smoke or environmental tobacco smoke.
From the Paper
"First of all, what is a definition of Environmental Tobacco smoke?" ETS is a mixture of the smoke given off by the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar and the smoke exhaled from the lungs of the smokers." ETS affects the eyes, nose, throat, brings on headaches, lung cancer, and may contribute to heart disease. Specifically for children, there is increased risk of lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, ear infections, build-up of fluid in the middle ear, increased severity and frequency of asthma attacks, and decreased lung function. All these possible health risks, and there is still too little being done to prevent secondhand smoke health threats. When one adds the horrible figure that "more than 5,000 infants die of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) annually, and the linkage with maternal smoking is well established" here is one more "definition" of ETS: the major killer of babies between the ages of one month and one year."
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The Rare Giant Panda, 2005.
This paper discusses the rare giant panda of China and the research that is being done for its preservation.
1,630 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that once the geographic range of the Giant Panda extended throughout Burma, Vietnam and particularly southern and eastern China as far north as Beijing; today the remaining tatters of China's bamboo forests support only about 1,000 wild pandas in the mountains of central China's Sichuan Province, high in the mountains, shrouded in heavy clouds with torrential rains or dense mist throughout the year. The author points out that scientists have debated for more than a century whether giant pandas belong to the bear family, the raccoon family or a separate family of their own; recent DNA analysis indicates that giant pandas are more closely related to bears. The paper relates that scientists are conducting research in order to preserve the panda through the study of infant development and mating behaviors such as the importance of urine scents similar to dog mating.
From the Paper
"The newborn panda weighs barely a quarter of a pound, even though the mother weighs typically two hundred pounds. Most mammals, with which we are familiar when born find their way to the nipple to nurse. The panda mother cradles her baby against her body "so it can snuggle into her warm fur and feed" much like an ape. Immediately upon giving birth, the mother panda fasts for days, devoting all her time to the newborn. An interesting fact about the birth of twins, which happens about fifty percent of the time, is that the mother chooses one and lets the other die. Scientists believe that is due to the care the frail infant requires and the mother can only provide for one."
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U.S. Businesses and the Environment, 2006.
This paper explores the damaging effects of American businesses on the environment.
2,764 words (approx. 11.1 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper details the harm that U.S. businesses cause to the environment and freshwater systems in America. The writer of this paper shows some of the steps that have been taken in attempts to curtail the destruction of the environment by American business industries. This paper also probes the recently emerged reports that the nation's water system is being polluted by the pharmaceutical industry and its impact on the environment.
Topics covered in this report include:
Introduction
125 Groups Prod EPA to Protect Our Water
Pesticides in Streams of the United States-Initial Results from the National Water-Quality Assessment Program
More Waters Test Positive for Drugs
Dredging Churns Up Toxic Chemicals
Long-Term Ecosystem Response to the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill
Dishonorable Discharge: Toxic Pollution of America's Waters
Summary of State Water Quality Laws Affecting Agriculture
Fables of Federal Regulation
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"Increasingly, one can find evidence of the harm that American businesses do to freshwater systems in the country in government, scholarly, and news publications. A number of such publications are summarized below in an attempt to show that, in the arena of freshwater systems in the United States, the changes that are slowly being made to policy and practice are not yet enough to counteract the destruction of these systems by factories and other holdings of American industry and business."
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