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Environmental Management, 2008.
An analysis of the importance of policies and guidelines required in the food supply industry, with a focus on pesticides.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the policies and guidelines that must be established by food supplier companies. It discusses the importance of these policies due to the fact that food products offered to, purchased by, and consumed by the public must be free of contamination and must adhere to the federal and state guidelines that consumers expect. The paper specifically focuses on pesticides and their effect on the industry.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Literature Review
Key Content Issue: Pesticides
Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper
"When a food supply company sits down to put together its policy regarding the environment, no matter how small or how big the company, it must rely on the best possible science - from independent researchers - to be certain that it protects not only its workers but the consumers who will be eating the food that is put on the market. Given that there is evidence that the EPA leans more towards the pesticide industry than it does towards the consumer, to be on the safe side the food supply company should reach out beyond the EPA for objective, verifiable data. The EPA still holds the cards when it comes to laws and regulations relating to food safety; but again, a company that wishes to fully protect its employees and the public as well, will be wise to include independent analysis in it's policy statement. What is more important, going along with the powers that be when it comes to the potential for humans (especially children) to become exposed to dangerous toxins? Or being on the safe side and accessing independently corroborated science by researchers who are respected and not part of the lobby group, or the government group, that is too close to the pesticide manufacturers? The answer is obvious; food supply companies must think of people first, when creating their policy statements."
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Pesticides: Benefits vs. Risks, 2008.
An argument against the widespread use of pesticides.
955 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
The paper argues that pesticide use should be cut back dramatically in America because of the dangers they present to human health and the environment. The paper reveals the risk of illnesses that include cancer, neurological diseases and cognitive dysfunctions and describes the damage to ecosystems. The paper asserts that although pesticides are useful at eliminating destructive pests and can certainly boost food production, they cause more harm than good. The paper then looks at ways in which pesticide use can be reduced without unduly compromising agricultural productivity.
From the Paper
"The first argument to be raised in objection to the widespread use of pesticides is the legitimate threat these products present to human beings. A recent study released by the Ontario College of Family Physicians in Canada found - after carefully reviewing 250 studies from around the world - that repeated exposure to pesticides, be they "occupational" pesticides for farm use or home-and-garden pesticides, raised the risk of illnesses ranging from cancer to neurological diseases; habitual exposure to these chemicals, it was also determined, heightened the likelihood of reproductive problems, as well."
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Genetically Modified Foods and Hunger, 2008.
This paper argues strongly against the ideas in "Technology Will Save Billions from Starvation" by C.S. Prakash and Gregory Conko.
1,804 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
The paper argues against Prakash and Conko's belief in "Technology Will Save Billions from Starvation" that the technology of genetically modified foods and the attendant agricultural practices is an ecological boon and a nutritional miracle. The paper asserts that the purported nutritional benefits of genetically modified food can be found naturally in organic produce. The paper then dispels the myth that there is a need for more food and reveals that technologies which allow the production of more food still have not solved the problem of growing hunger. The paper notes the concerns regarding genetically modified foods and contends that the 'green revolution' is of great potential harm, not just to Africa, but to the entire world's future food supply.
From the Paper
"One of the benefits of biotechnology, according to Prakash and Conko, are that plants can be engineered to hold greater nutritional benefits, such as "higher quality protein, lower levels of saturated fat, increased vitamins and minerals, and many others" (426). Of course, there is already a type of farming which provides extensive nutritional farming, and that is organic. Unlike genetically modified foods, which have these nutritional benefits by virtue of scientific interference, organic farming allows foods to retain their natural nutritional character. The Organic Trade Association website discusses these enhanced (or rather unhampered) nutritional qualities of organic foods in detail, citing a number of scientific and academic studies as conclusive evidence. One study, conducted by the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences, found that rats fed on organic foods "were slimmer, slept better, and had stronger immune systems than those fed conventionally grown produce" (http://www.ota.com/organic/benefits/nutrition.html)."
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The Global Food Market, 2008.
This paper explores the issue of excess foods on the market by discussing the world food trade, dumping and biofuels.
1,348 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the problems that arise with the inexpensive foods that flood the market. The paper first explains how the global food trade can have a negative effect on the agriculture in developing countries. The paper then discusses the possibility of using crops for biofuels and examines the benefits and drawbacks of this solution. The paper concludes by stating that just continuing with the situation as usual is not an option.
From the Paper
"The concept of food trade seems such a simple one on its face. All people must eat in order to survive. If people have a surplus of food, it is better than if they have only a subsistence level of food or an insufficient quantity of food, no matter where that food comes from or what type of food is being produced. Inexpensive food is always better; lower prices mean more people spend less on food and quality of life improves all around. Global trade is better for the food trade because it keeps food prices lower. Finally, more land has to be dedicated to food production. All of these things seem simple and true on their faces, but how reliable are these statements?"
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Organic Farming: Advantages and Disadvantages, 2008.
An analysis of whether organic farming is a viable and ecologically beneficial method of food production.
1,410 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the debate over organic farming and discusses the advantages and disadvantages that are associated with it. The paper specifically focuses on whether organic farming is a viable and ecologically beneficial method of food production and looks at whether the method should be improved and expanded on over the coming years.
From the Paper
"In conclusion, organic farming has been proven to be a viable and ecologically beneficial method of food production and should be improved and expanded over the coming years. Improving and expanding organic farming is becoming increasingly necessary because food contamination, pollution, biodiversity declines, and deteriorating working conditions for farmers demonstrate that the world must develop a much more sustainable approach to agriculture.
"Critics claim that organic farming is not viable, primarily because it reduces crop yields and is inefficient in a variety of ways. But fallacious logic can be seen in many of their arguments, for study after study has shown that organic farming actually increases crop yields. This evidence refutes the primary argument of critics, many of whom are not objective anyway because they are affiliated with agribusiness conglomerates which profit from conventional farming and which are opposing organic farming simply because it reduces their business profits."
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Divergent Patterns of Agricultural Productivity, 2008.
An analysis of the reasons behind the divergent path phenomena of agricultural productivity growth in France and England.
2,573 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 77.95
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Abstract
This paper explain the divergent patterns of agricultural productivity growth in France and England. The paper looks at different labor practices, preferences for rural over urban activity and the ability to engage in agriculture given what is provided by the country's geographical landscape. It uses these factors to explain the reasons behind the divergent path phenomena of agricultural productivity growth.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
1900 Agricultural Outlook: France versus England
Pre-1900s: An Early State of Equal Agricultural Activity
Agrarian Transformation and Industrialization
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Meanwhile, England embraced industrialization and urbanization. In the early 1700s, England was far from such industrialization, and there was "little economic growth in Britain in the second half of the eighteenth century" (Mokyr 81-2). When the Industrial Revolution eventually did arrive in England, it did not represent, contrary to popular thought, "a macroeconomic event that led to a sudden acceleration of the rate of growth, although growth eventually became an inevitable corollary" (ibid 82). On the other hand, it represented more of a "wave of gadgets" sweeping over Britain post-1760, which allowed goods to be produced more efficiently and at a higher quality (ibid). It also represented, depending on one's opinion, either the trigger for raised living standards or the signaling of lowered living standards for England (Nardinelli). Agricultural growth was certainly part of this revolution. Many scholars cite one of the main features of the Industrial Revolution as a movement from inorganic to organic materials (E.A. Wrigley, 1987 cited in Mokyr 83). Other important developments were increases in using machinery as labor power, something agricultural England embraced as France selected to retain its human labor pool as its primary agricultural power source. While the French farmers worked on the crops and fields with hand tools, machines in England became commonplace agricultural tools (ibid)."
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Hydroponics, 2008.
This paper explores the potential of hydroponics in plant growing.
1,597 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 13 sources, APA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
The paper explains hydroponics, also known as soil-less culture, as a system of growing plants suspended or embedded in a non-soil environment. The paper explores the advantages that hydroponic growing techniques offer over soil-based growing techniques, but also shows how this is a highly technical and extremely demanding business. The paper concludes therefore that while hydroponic culture offers many possibilities, it requires considerable managerial and technical sophistication to be carried out successfully.
From the Paper
"Hydroponics, also known as soilless culture, is a system of growing plants suspended or embedded in a non-soil environment. While typical soil-based agriculture essentially dumps seeds into soil which may be less than completely healthy and which may expose the seeds to numerous pathogens, hydroponics allows a grower to maintain conditions which are most conducive to plant growth. This ability to control the growing environment results in higher yields compared to traditional soil-based agriculture. Seeds and young plants are not exposed to soil-borne diseases and pests. This is especially desirable in tropical situations, because it allows plants to go through their life cycles with minimal interruption, and without the threat of infestation."
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Agricultural Engineering, 2008.
A description of how to build improved broiler houses.
1,249 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper describes how advances in agriculture have been facilitated over the past fifty years. In particular, the paper provides in depth information as to how to construct and run a broiler house.
From the Paper
"To reduce heating costs and increase ventilation broiler houses are constructed with drop ceilings. The average broiler house is 40-50 feet wide and 400-600 feet long. The ceiling is suspended to help with the hygiene of the broiler house and to make it easier to catch the broilers. The dropped ceiling acts as a vapor barrier protecting the trusses of the broiler house. Dropped ceilings reduce the surface area of the broiler house and allows for the installation of insulation. The insulation is blown in and prevents heat gain during warm months heat loss during cold months. The walls of the broiler house are also insulated in the same way for the same reason. For maximum growth consistent warm temperatures are required (Fairchild)."
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Local Food and Health, 2008.
This paper explores the importance of local food systems to human health.
1,410 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the role of corporate entities in food production and distribution. The paper argues that we cannot discuss the human health aspects of local food production without critically addressing how the corporatization of food production and distribution has introduced numerous destabilizing health vectors in our food systems. The paper then shows how local food production is undeniably healthier than global food production and distribution.
From the Paper
"These "chemical stews" impact human bodies in numerous, and often unexpected, ways. Consider, for example, the contemporary health controversy over the excess use of antibiotics which - because of their widespread presence in the human population - have been losing their valuable potential as disease-fighting tools of our medical system. Studies have found that as much as 70 percent of the antibiotics present in our bodies today is present not from personal usage but indirectly through the consumption of animals who themselves have been excessively treated with antibiotics (Larsen 2007, p.21)."
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Ginseng, 2008.
This paper provides an overview of the use and properties of ginseng.
777 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that American ginseng is wanted mostly in the Orient, but it is a large business, with wild and cultivated ginseng producing $25 million annually. The paper discusses the history, purposes and cultivation of ginseng.
Outline:
Abstract
The Importance of Ginseng
The History of American Ginseng
The Planting and Cultivation of American Ginseng
The Purposes for Ginseng
From the Paper
"Often people see announcements about the use of ginseng and how it will help with different illnesses such as high blood pressure, but how true are these reports? In a supplement snapshot by Prevention, it tells how people use ginseng for a number of reasons including hot flashes, reducing cold symptoms, reducing sugar levels (2007, p. 67). American ginseng is wanted mostly in the Orient, but it is a large business with wild and cultivated ginseng producing $25 million annually (American Ginseng, 2006, par. 2). As a valued product, it is important to study the history of ginseng, the uses of ginseng, and how it is produced."
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Food Security Indicators, 2008.
A report to determine the nature of food security within the Chinese international community in Vancouver.
1,020 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
The paper aims to examine whether the Chinese international students of Vancouver face serious food security concerns within their community. The paper discusses an interview that was conducted with a sample of the population and relates the general finding that although the students felt that the safety of Vancouver food itself was not compromised, their lack of knowledge regarding their food items and their poor English meant that the safety of their own diets were compromised. The paper discusses how changes should be implemented in government action. The paper concludes that as all people have the right to live with food security, so must the international students in Vancouver have a right to safe food choices and practices. The paper includes a sample of the questionnaire as well as interviewee responses compiled in table form as appendices.
Outline:
Introduction
Method
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The issue of food security, even in a country as advanced and westernized as Canada, is a cause for growing concern amongst Canadian citizens. Though a series of federal government initiatives and international meetings have resulted in the development of federal guidelines requiring certain food security standards, local and provincial action concerning these guidelines has been called into question. Vancouver, though it is not the capital of British Columbia, is the most populous city in the province. The city is a thriving urban centre which provides food for almost 2.2 million Vancouverites, including a large minority of international travelers and students. For those migrating to Vancouver, food security concerns and practices are a potential problem."
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The Balanced Scorecard, 2008.
This paper evaluates the value and shortcomings of the U.S. balanced scorecard approach to enforcing government standards.
2,004 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
The paper looks at two aspects of the balanced scorecard as it pertains to the U.S. Department of Agriculture: the strategic management of human capital and the manner in which an organization is expected to carry out "competitive pricing". The paper argues that the balanced scorecard is an excellent tool for assessing and measuring organizational performance and that its few shortcomings are more than overcome by its many advantages. The paper concludes that the scorecard approach demands accountability and forces agencies to be more responsive, ultimately keeping public expenditures at a manageable level.
From the Paper
"The process by which governments monitor the goings-on of various departments has become increasingly complex in recent decades as government has grown and as the general public becomes more cynical about the ability of the government to deliver services effectively and economically. As mentioned in the abstract to this paper, the strategic management of human capital is one of the keys to successful governance. The United States government has in place something it calls "the balanced scorecard" which assesses whether or not a department is doing all it can to optimize its organizational functioning. Among other things, the scorecard evaluates whether or not the human capital plan of a department is consistent with the department's goals and objectives. Further, the balanced scorecard examines the succession plans in place, the leadership development plans which exist, the means by which (and the extent to which) employees are held accountable (commensurate to their responsibilities, of course), whether or not an agency is capable of effectively differentiating between different levels of performance, whether or not an agency has the tools and procedures in place to close "competency gaps" in what are best described as "mission critical" occupations, whether (or not) the organization expeditiously makes hiring decisions and notifies applicants in an appropriate time, and - lastly - whether the organization conducts regular accountability reviews (The White House, 2006b)."
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The Risk Society and Food Consumption, 2008.
This paper explores the role of alternative food systems as risk management.
2,055 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the theme of the "risk society" in respect to food production and distribution. The paper defines the term "risk society" and looks at how decisions are made to ignore risks in order to benefit from the overall convenience gained through using a commercialized food distribution system. The paper discusses the specific risks associated with commercialized agriculture. The paper points out how some consumers avoid these risks through engaging in alternative food acquisition systems, such as purchasing organic products or buying food through community supported agriculture organizations.
Outline:
Introduction
The Theme of the Risk Society
Risk Society and the Rationale for Alternative Food Supplies
Examples of Alternative Food Supplies
Summary
From the Paper
"Mainstreamed, commercialized food distribution tends to be a heavily industrialized process. When food is treated like a commodity, it is purposefully marketed towards potential consumers and made available through specific modes of sale, such as supermarkets and restaurants. This process does help facilitate the movement of food through transportation and improves access to food products among those consumers who are in proximity to local points of distribution. However, some social scientists suggest that it is easy to confuse the aspects of convenience with those of safety, especially when it is frequently argued that a centralized system of food distribution enables ease of access for monitoring food product safety through the use of independent government oversight (e.g.: the Food and Drug Administration). In this sense, it can be argued that these perceptions of commercialized food purposefully ignore the risks that are associated with convenient food distribution."
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Biotechnology and Nutrition, 2008.
An analysis of food safety and food labeling issues for genetically modified foods.
1,181 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper highlights the major statistics regarding biotechnology and the agricultural industry. It then examines governmental and organizational involvement in biotechnology, both locally and internationally. The paper focuses on biotechnology issues as they relate to food safety, food labeling and guidelines for genetically modified foods.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Biotechnology and Nutrition
Statistics
Definitions
Governmental Agencies
Food Labeling
From the Paper
"The bottom line consideration is one between scientists and those who make public policy and the unknown variable of the long term health risks of consuming genetically modified foods (Underwood, 2003). As Greger (2000) points out, however, there is often a disparity between what consumers consider important information and what scientists have to offer. Underwood (2003) states the solution is to develop a sense of trust by having scientists and governmental agencies admit the unknowns and risk elements, thus allowing individuals, states or countries to weigh the benefits against the risks for themselves and make an informed decision."
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The Norwegian Forest, 2007.
This paper discuses Norway's vast natural resources contained in its forestry industry.
1,785 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Norway boasts some of the most ecologically diverse forest areas in the world and that the diversity of the topography creates prime locations for some of the most sensitive ecosystems. The author reviews Norway's five forest areas, which have been identified as being in need of management and conservation protection: Western Pine forests, Coastal rain forests, the Canyon and Humid Spruce forests, Northern Pine forests, and the Hemi-deciduous forests. The paper relates that, even though Norway has one of poorest records for ecological conservation of all the major forestry producing countries, it is not without protective legislation, for these resources such as The Forestry and Forest Protection Act, The Nature Conservation Act, and the Building and Planning Act.
Table of Contents
Review of Norway's Forests
Percentage of Land Coverage
Economic Impact of Norway's Forestry Industry
Economic Value
Exports
Primary Forestry
Secondary Forestry
Bio-Energy
Transportation
Norwegian Forestry Policies and Protection
The Forestry and Forest Protection Act
The Building and Planning Act
Norwegian Forest Restoration and Sustainability Plans
From the Paper
"The forestry industry in Norway is second only to the Norwegian fishing industry. Excluding petroleum exports, forestry products comprise 11 percent of the total exported value. In 1995, 6,180 people were employed by the lumber industry, 5,000 in forestry and another 9,000 in pulp and paper industries. These numbers would increase even more if transportation and other ancillary functions related to the timber industry were included in the employment statistics. The high degree, to which Norway relies on forestry and forestry related industries, opens the country up to vast amounts of international competition."
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