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Responses to Global Warming, 2008.
This paper discusses the role of science, knowledge and risk in environmental problems such as global warming.
2,677 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that the planet is currently facing the challenge and danger of global warming. The writer maintains that science and technology have brought us to this crisis, in that industrialization has led to global warming. It seems highly likely that we will have to rely on these very same things, i.e. science and technology, to rescue us from the peril we are in due to global warming. Within the ambit of scientific responses to global warming, two basic kinds of response exist: mitigation of global warming, or adaptation to the effects of global warming. This paper examines the research to determine which approach seems more appropriate and useful for saving ourselves from global warming. It recommends that we look to adaptation using science and technology, as mitigation has clearly failed.
Outline:
Abstract
Essay
From the Paper
"Examples include sequestering carbon in trees. This would involve planting a vast number of trees, because trees take in carbon dioxide. They incorporate in into their leaves, roots and stems via photosynthesis. Due to the long life of trees, this would mean that the carbon had been sequestered away from the environment for about 100 years. Another approach is carbon management, in which carbon dioxide emitted during the burning of carbon fuels is caught and then sequestered away from the atmosphere. The question of course is where to store it. One suggestion is to sequester it in the ocean. The problem with this solution is that we do not know what the long-term effects on the ocean would be. In addition, the technologies to capture carbon dioxide emissions are still in the very early stages. Fertilizing the ocean with iron is an innovative idea propounded by an oceanographer in 1987."
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Computers, E-waste and Obsolescence, 2008.
This paper discusses the quick obsolescence of expensive computers and problems related to their disposal.
1,963 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the obsolescence of expensive computers and how rampant electronic waste causes harm to developing nations environmentally, socially and economically. The paper suggests that more money and creativity should be applied to the problem of how to make computer-generated e-waste a less pressing concern. The paper includes an annotated bibliography.
From the Paper
"It has been argued, with increasing stridency in recent years, that the United States and other western countries are exporting their waste around the world ("Old PCs dumped in developing nations," 14). Of especial note, Frederick Buell writes that the United States has embraced the "growth fetish" and has sought to use globalization to achieve this; at the same time, it appears as though (at least this was the case during the Clinton Administration) U.S. leaders have made a conscious choice to simply pursue an upgrade of the old "brown" economy (57-58). Buell also writes that the developing world exports industries that are prone to pollution, exports industries that contain obvious health risks to workers, and exports practices (such as recycling batteries as part of an ongoing effort to reclaim their lead contents) that can easily lead (and do lead) to high levels of toxicity in the local ecology."
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How do Ethnic Economies Shape the Urban Landscape?, 2008.
This paper argues that ethnic economies shape the urban landscape in many tangible and economic ways.
2,994 words (approx. 12.0 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
The paper argues that ethnic economies, (using "economy" as a term that can entail a wide range of human interactions and inter-relationships), allow for the re-organization of the social space of a community, with different parts of the same town assuming the trappings of the particular group that resides there. The paper discusses how ethnic economies compel a re-thinking of old assumptions, offer new potentialities for social justice and invigorate the consumer cultures of urban centers. The paper concludes that ethnic economies are vital to the vibrancy of any city.
From the Paper
"As mentioned at the outset, ethnic economies shape (and re-shape) the urban landscape in a host of ways. To begin with, ethnic economies are characterized by their transnational diasporas, as peoples from one nation "set up shop" in another land and carve out a territorial, economic, and socio-cultural (to say nothing of socio-linguistic) niche for themselves in an alien environment. To the extent that any economy (be it moral, industrial, philosophical or some other entity) must be orderly and have a well-organized, functional arrangement of its constituent elements, it may be said that the proper functioning of the ethnic diasporas that transformed Canada in the latter-half of the twentieth century (and certainly today) cannot function without well-ordered internal communities bound together by strong social and familial bonds and by close connections with a much-larger global ethnic network that allows "hyphenated" Canadians to maintain all of their various affiliations without losing sight of the pre-eminent fact that they are members of a specific ethnic and/or racial group."
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Global Warming in Australia and Worldwide, 2008.
An analysis of global warming and climate threats examined on a local (Brisbane), national (Australia), and global level.
1,390 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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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."
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Environmental Literature, 2008.
This paper compares the writings of Neil Evernden in "The Natural Alien" and William Leiss in "Under Technology's Thumb".
1,925 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Neil Evernden in "The Natural Alien" impressively sweeps over the course of human history and the evolution of human thought demonstrating that reality consists in what one sees, and that one only sees what is important to one. The author points out that Evernden seems to be so obsessed with the "how" of how we talk about the environment that he seems to lose sight of the real issue. The paper then relates that William Leiss's chief focus in "Under Technology's Thumb" is to urge humankind to move away from domination of the earth and instead to move towards caring and respect for the earth. The author stresses that the sheer scholarship of both books is impressive. The paper concludes that neither writer had anything concrete or useful to say about the key issue that faces us today: sustainability.
From the Paper
"Indeed, if we could bring the social and other effects of our technologies into line with the fundamental value of sustainability, then we might have a hope of surviving to the next millennium and beyond. However, when we come to examine what practical help Leiss offers us with this ambition, he too falls short. True, he offers us his interesting and well-argued philosophy of "caring," and a compelling argument, in this context, against consumerism. It may well be true, as Leiss argues, that most people derive more satisfaction from caring for others than from consumerism."
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Urban Economic Geography, 2008.
This paper explores neo-liberalism and its implications for the North American urban environment.
2,803 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 83.95
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Abstract
The paper analyzes neo-liberalism within the context of urban economic geography, while simultaneously providing an analysis that shows its progress and impact within the North American region. The paper focuses on the economic implications of neo-liberalism and discusses how, since there are challenges to neo-liberalism, it is imperative that central themes related to the urban economic geography be analyzed. The paper includes color graphs, charts and diagrams.
Outline:
Introduction
Understanding Urban Economic Geography
Neo-liberalism and Urban Restructuring
Growth of Neo-liberalism in North America - Some Contradictions for Urban Economic Geography
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The paper will provide a unique outlook on geographic thought, since it will be done with the necessary analytical tools used in the social sciences. Urban economic geography is one of the few specializations that can simultaneously analyze a complex issue such as neo-liberalism and its economic and political implications in the domestic and international realm and aspects of urban geography. The analysis will provide some insight into the spatial geographic development within the US as the issue is examined within the urban context."
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Urban Sprawl, 2008.
This paper addresses the issue of urban sprawl in Toronto and Ontario.
1,116 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the urban areas of Ontario and Toronto are experiencing urban sprawl. The paper describes the characteristics of urban sprawl and how it can be measured. The paper looks at urban sprawl's negative impacts on the environment, taxpayers and on the population's cultural and social life. The paper offers recommendations for future land-use development that will sustainably manage growth and discourage urban sprawl.
Outline:
Issue
Analysis
Recommendations
From the Paper
"Urban sprawl is not easy to define. "To paraphrase the United States Supreme Court's long-ago ruling on pornography, most people can't define sprawl--but they know it when they see it" (Fulton et al, 2001). Urban sprawl is a phenomenon that occurs around metropolitan areas, usually represented by suburbs, and it involved the spread of cities and the urbanization or areas around it previously undeveloped, used for agriculture or green fields and forests.
"There are several characteristics of urban sprawl by which it can be recognized. First, the land-use is segregated and usually entails single use zoning. This means that residential, commercial and industrial areas are separated from one another. Often there are large undeveloped, empty areas between them. Because these areas are separated, traveling from one to the other can only be done with a car."
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"Himalayan Perceptions", 2008.
An analysis and review of "Himalayan Perceptions: Environmental Change and the Well-Being of Mountain Peoples," written by Jack Ives.
1,090 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a summary and analysis of Jack Ives' book, "Himalayan Perceptions: Environmental Change and the Well-Being of Mountain Peoples". The paper looks at the book in context of the author's other writings and analyzes the purpose and viability of the research that was done for it. The paper also provides the writer of this paper's opinion regarding the book and Ives's position regarding the Himalayan ecosystem.
From the Paper
"Ives uses a compelling methodology followed by a strong amount of research. He structures the book to show the problem. By focusing on the area and its environmental problems first, he sets a tone that does not simply invalidate the fact that there are problems with the Himalayan ecosystem. He offers strong evidence to show that the natural disasters are real. However, he does not merely end there, but continues to show that the common perceptions are incorrect. As an example, he quotes an article the Basler Zeitung, which states, "The severe floods in eastern India and Bangladesh are not the result of a natural disaster, but of the ruthless exploitation of the forests which has been practised over many centuries in the Himalayas" (103). Ives then spends the rest of the chapter offering evidence that shows that this belief is incorrect. By doing this, he acknowledges the common belief, then uses research and facts to prove that common belief to be incorrect. This example is one of many, but it shows that Ives is not merely trying to remove an old lie and replace it with a new one, but rather to effectively communicate a new perspective that is founded on research and facts."
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Trans-Border Pollution, 2008.
This paper examines the policies of Canada and the United States vis-a-vis trans-border air pollution.
1,730 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
The paper looks at the 1991 Air Quality Agreement between the two nations and the 2000 Ozone Annex. The paper briefly discusses some of the key measures implemented and to what extent each country is guilty of reneging on its environmental commitments. The paper concludes that both nations are pushing ahead, but shows how the pace of change could and should be increased.
From the Paper
"To start with, both Canada and the United States have worked cooperatively to reduce trans-border or trans-boundary pollution. To wit, as early as 1991 the two countries signed an agreement - the Canada-US Air Quality Agreement - wherein each pledged to reduce trans-boundary air pollution contributing to acid rain. Specifically, both nations agreed to implement measures reducing emissions of sulphur dioxide as well as nitrogen oxides. Both nations agreed to work together as well to develop the scientific and technical tools necessary for eliminating (or at least greatly reducing) acid rain levels in North America (Environment Canada, 2006). A little more than 9 years later, in December of 2000, the two countries also came together and signed an Ozone Annex that established benchmarks for reducing the "trans-boundary flow" of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, as well as reducing the flow and production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (Environment Canada, 2006). Understandably, both of these measures deserve to be looked at more closely insofar as they appear to constitute the foundations of both countries' approach to trans-boundary air pollution."
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"Pedestrianizing" Urban Areas, 2008.
An argument for the "pedestrianization" of urban areas in Vancouver.
864 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the importance of child friendly spaces in urban areas. It suggests that children and other pedestrians are often not taken into account when planning urban areas. The paper argues that Commercial Drive in the Grandview Woodlands Park Area of Vancouver, BC should be "pedestrianized" and vehicular traffic should be diverted from the area. The paper briefly describes the benefits of such a move.
From the Paper
"I would argue that these youthful rebels are correct - the space occupied by vehicular traffic on Commercial Drive should be allocated to children, youth and other residents. The No. 20 bus could easily be diverted to run on Victoria Drive for the section of road between Venables and 1st Avenue - or possibly even as far as Broadway. This should make the entire area a true children's paradise, where children could wander safely, without fear of traffic. It would also reduce the pollution that currently sails into the park and the schools, polluting the lungs of children. And it would facilitate the interaction of younger and older residents in a stress-free environment. The street could be converted into a park-cum-public space. All in all, Commercial Drive should be pedestrianized to create a much-needed public space for all local residents, thus facilitating inter-generational contact, and making the area safer and healthier for children."
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Mars: Not Exactly Home, but Better Than Venus, 2008.
This paper looks at different planets and focuses on Mars as the most preferable option for sustaining human life after planet earth.
1,696 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the solar system is a unique combination of many different types of planets, which has many different things that it can offer to humans. However, the the writer points out, planet Earth offers the most beneficial climate and diversity for human life. The writer notes that many of the other planets are entirely devoid of life. The writer discusses that despite the fact that there are eight planets in our solar system, only Mars (other than Earth) seems to be capable of containing human life at all. The writer maintains that Mars has many of the requisites that are needed to sustain human life, such as the possibility of water, small amounts of oxygen, and a possibility of life. The writer concludes that if humans were to ever colonize another planet in the solar system, Mars would be the most intelligent choice.
From the Paper
"Apart from the cold at its poles (which is far more extreme than Earth's), Mercury shares very little in common with Earth. It would be very difficult for humans to inhabit Mercury. The temperature extremes, the lack of water, and the lack of a protective atmosphere would quickly decimate human life attempting to live there. Current space craft could succeed in landing humans on Mercury, but it is unlikely that there would be a way to maintain proper oxygen levels for survival.
"Venus is another planet that is very inhospitable. Yet, for several reasons, it is known as the sister planet to Earth: Venus is similar to Earth's size (95% its diameter, 80% of its mass. Both planets do not have many craters, which points to young surfaces."
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Planning a City, 2008.
An analysis of the issues that need to be taken into consideration when planning the development of a city.
1,466 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses issues related to urban planning. It looks at the reasons why urban planning may be needed in a city and issues related to zoning. It discusses concerns that may be of issue in city planning on a local, state and federal level and how these are addressed. It also briefly discusses business, environmental and transportation needs. The paper contains a sample zoning map for Staten Island, New York.
From the Paper
"City planning must also focus on the environment that the city wishes to create for the community. Within the scope of environment factors that are important for planners include the contentment of residents, the safety of families and the ability to attract tourists in the area. Most residential areas desire an atmosphere that is conducive to raising children and in which schools are close in proximity to residential units. On the other hand, most business sectors desire that the area be pleasing to tourism in order to draw in the multi-billion dollar tourist industry and increase profits. Business areas that are filled with waste and that are not well maintained, therefore, will be detrimental to business over time. However, those business areas that are cased for by the city and that are inviting to the tourist trade will draw in tourists and maintain their business throughout the years. Some municipalities believe that signs, banners and billboards are unattractive and that they depredate the beauty of a city. However, in cities such as New York, it is evident that signs, billboards and banners are part of the tourist experience that people believe is important to allowing tourists to comprehend all that is occurring within the city."
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Urban Planning in Canada, 2008.
This document discusses the need for greater urban planning across Canada.
1,535 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that if Canada wishes to maintain its advantage in sustainability and environmental leadership, it must continue to implement urban planning as a core strategy of sustainable development. The paper focuses on the greater Toronto area and discusses how urban planners have defined its geographic boundaries by the character of the surrounding geography itself. The paper shows, however, how its overall boundary making strategy may not be as clear as it could be. The paper concludes that without the technology to remap the region for various purposes, assigning requisite resources for specific purposes would be very difficult indeed for the city's urban planners. The paper includes two color maps of Toronto.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Urban Boundaries in Planning
Determining Borders as Urban Planning
Urban Planning Characteristics
Conclusion
From the Paper
"European settlers, across the breadth of Canada, have long utilized boundary setting and the definition of geographical boundaries for both cartographic and political purposes. This began with the earliest colonization of the Canadian provinces and continues, to one degree or another, today. Harris points out that the expansion of the suburbs following World War II created growing strain on Canada's cities and its natural environment that was quickly recognized as a threat vis-a-vis sustainability (2004). Yet, with the ever expanding population following the war, due both to natural population growth as well as to Canada's ever-more friendly immigration policies, urban planning became not only a benefit to sustainable development but a necessity."
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Canada and Climate Change, 2008.
This paper explores Canada's climate change policies from 1997 until 2006.
2,351 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
The paper reveals that global climate change is one of the most pressing environmental, economic, political and social issues facing the world. The paper discusses how the Canada's conservative government of today is moving away from the Kyoto Protocol, following a policy path closer to that of the United States. The paper explains why Canada's policies around climate change have been changing so often.
Outline:
Introduction
Why has Canada taken these Actions?
What Should Have Been Done?
From the Paper
"Canada has engaged in a number of activities in relation to combating global climate change. On December 17, 2002 Canada became the one-hundredth country to ratify the Kyoto Protocol(Weibust 2003: 287). By ratifying the Kyoto Protocol Canada made firm commitments to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. According to MacDonald Douglas and Heather A. Smith in "Promises Made, Promises Broken", Canadian Negotiators agreed to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions by 6 per cent no later then 2012(Douglas and Smith 1999-2000: 357). What this means is that Canada under Prime Minister John Chretien was certainly willing to co-operate with the larger world community. They had made firm commitments and seemed to be following similar policy paths to European Union."
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Destruction of Rainforests, 2008.
This paper discusses the environmental problem of the destruction of the rainforests.
1,046 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer maintains that the destruction of the tropical rainforests is one of the biggest global environmental problems that one faces today. Although the rainforests are 'local' and confined to certain areas of the world, their destruction is, nevertheless, a global problem, and this is so for several reasons. The writer explains that first, the rainforests are the lungs of the planet. They absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. Rainforests are also sinks, storage reservoirs of natural substances, in particular of carbon. Finally, the writer notes that rainforests are the only habitats of literally thousands and thousands of plant and animal species. The writer discusses that mist developing countries are attempting to improve and develop their economies and deal with population growth and the rainforests represent valuable natural resources and opportunities for export and foreign revenues. The writer concludes that deforestation can be fought by taking into consideration a broad range of issues and applying a broad range of policies and the sustainable management of forestry as well as agriculture. Further more conservation targets must be set, not just for the rainforests but also for the protection of the species diversity they contain.
From the Paper
"Industrial development is also the reason for deforestation in the Amazon, as the region contains mineral deposits of gold, diamonds and other minerals as well a huge supply of fresh water that could potentially supply much hydroelectric energy. Mining is an environmentally devastating economy in itself and requires additional clearing for road or rail development in order to transport the mined minerals. A cattle ranching is also a source of deforestation exclusive to Latin America, although according to Myers it has been on the decrease. One of the ways to deal with deforestation in the Amazon is to focus on more sustainable means of agriculture and less destructive logging methods as well as reforestation. Extractive reserve is an example given by Chasmer and Perry-Globa, (1998) for a way for more sustainable economic development of the Amazon. Rubber tappers collect small amounts of latex from rubber trees each day, which they sell. The trees are not destroyed. These activities can be extended to other forest products in the Amazon: nuts, fruits and vegetables. However, the biggest problem with preserving the rainforest I countries such as Brazil is the fact that these countries must balance conservation with the need for economic development and foreign capital."
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