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"The Unsettling of America", 2006.
A summary and review of Wendell Berry's book, "The Unsettling of America".
1,777 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper presents an overview and discussion of Wendell Berry's book about the plight of American farmers and our responsibility for stewardship of the land. The paper concludes that the arguments presented in "The Unsettling of America" about our duty to protect and keep the land are very persuasive, but that Berry must also provide some insight into how we are to go about doing so.
From the Paper
"What should worry all of us is that the farmer is going the way of flypaper, and is being replaced by the agricultural corporation, with computers and agri-science experts to know just how much fertilizer and weed killers the ground can take, and how much production it will take to get beef cattle to market quicker than before. Farming, he implies, has become mass merchandising, and by people who generally wouldn't use some of the products they merchandise."
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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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Life Cycle Analysis of Banana, 2006.
An analysis of the problems of increased banana consumption. The paper explains the storage, transportation, distribution, consumption and waste disposal in banana production. The paper includes a discussion on the environmental burden.
2,810 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 83.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that life cycle assessment is a tool to assess the extent of burden caused on the environment by a commodity (in this case, bananas). The main environmental concerns when growing bananas is the use of land and water. The greater the demand for the product, the more quality and quantity of fertilizers and pesticides are needed, the use of which causes the soil quality to deteriorate. The paper uses tables to show the uses and consequences of resources used in the production, storage and distribution of bananas. In conclusion, the writer recommends that environmentally friendly modes of transportation should be used to transport commodities like bananas and that proper planning based on demand and supply analysis would prevent the need for storage and consequent refrigeration, thereby using less electricity.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Life Cycle Analysis of Banana
- Definition of Problem
Inputs and Outputs of Banana
1. Cultivation
Table - I Inputs for Banana
2. Storage After the Yield
3. Mass Transportation
Table - II Inputs for Mass Transportation of Bananas
4. Sub - Storage Before the Distribution
5. Distribution at the Retail Outlets
6. Storage at Retail Outlets & Sales
7. Consumption & Disposal of Waste
Discussion on the Environmental Burden
Conclusions and Recommendations
From the Paper
"Year after year harvesting of crops and plantation deteriorates the soil quality and as a result of this the nutrient content of the plants and crops falls below the required level. Thirteen elements are absolutely essential for the growth, development and maturation of plants. ( HLS Tandon, 1995) These are: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulfur, Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, Chlorine, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum and Zinc. Repeated harvests cause depletion of these element contents in the soil and necessitate the use of fertilizers. The plantations are to be protected against the diseases caused by warms and pests by using pesticides. Over the years the requirement of these chemicals in harvesting of almost all types of crops and plants are increasing with the increasing demand for food items. The commercial companies around the globe exploting this rise in demand of fertilizer and pesticides. They invent new products and aggressively marketing them and producing them in mass quantity in their facilities located around the globe. The manufacturing, storage, transportation and use of hazardous chemicals for manufacturing these fertilizer and pesticides imposes lot of environmental burden. The emissions hazardous chemical gases from these facilities pollute the atmosphere depriving the humane being one of their vital needs of fresh air for breathing. The people living around thee facilities and the workers apply these fertilizer and pesticides to the plants, manufacturing, transporting are all affected by these chemicals and develop serious health problems. The liquid effluents send out from these facilities cause eutrophication and acidification of lakes and other water resources. (Gilbert M. Masters, 1995). These effluents mix oxygen-demanding wastes and water born diseases creating pathogens in to water resources. Artificial production of the thirteen elements discussed earlier is one of the reasons for the increase in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in the water resources near to these facilities."
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European vs Aboriginal Attitudes to Land, 2006.
A study of the Aboriginal rights to look after the land of Australia.
2,103 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 66.95
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Abstract
In this paper the author questions the right of the "white" Europeans to take over and destroy the good soil of Australia.He questions the actions of the white Australians and highlights the history and rights of the Aborigines to his land, quoting many sources. The paper concludes that the Aborigines know the land better and he justifies their right to look after the land and not let it be destroyed.
From the Paper
" The problem with those of us who consider ourselves "civilized" and "up to date" is that we specialize, first in genocide, then in the rape of nature, and then create new specialties to repair the damage. Before the Europeans came, the Aborigines had no worries about the Ozone layer, or mastering a driver's test. Cricket, to them, was the sound of Nature at work, not some distant test match."
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The Evolutionary Battle Between Farmers and Pests, 2006.
An historical overview of the agricultural sector's struggle with pests.
2,170 words (approx. 8.7 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the attempts by the agricultural sector to contain pest plagues, which every year threaten the destruction of farmers' economic viability. The author provides an historical overview of the relationship between pests and agriculture, focusing on artificial or chemical means to control pest plagues. The paper also examines the dangers of these remedies to the environment and explores alternative means, such as organic farming.
From the Paper
"In order to reach yield levels that even come close to satisfying the food demands of the population and that also make farming economically viable, farmers developed, through necessity, a dependence on chemical fertilizers, modern machinery, pesticides, and the science of agriculture. Farmers walk a tightrope on a daily basis to remain financially solvent in the face of weather disasters, pest infestations, and fluctuating market prices. Any crop loss can have severe economic repercussions, and in the arena of pest plagues, unless a constant battle is waged, disaster is certain. Insects multiply at such a high rate that several generations of an insect species can hatch, develop, mature, and reproduce within a single crop season. There is no doubt that crop devastation due to pests is a grave concern."
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Biodiesel, 2005.
This paper discusses biodiesel, a mono alkalyl ester of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats processed and refined for use as a fuel in diesel engines, and its associated problems.
3,990 words (approx. 16.0 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 108.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that biodiesel is a revolutionary change and therefore has a revolutionary effect on the cultural, social, political, economic and health aspects of society. The author points out that, although biodiesel is claimed to be "green", with minimum pollutions, this fuel has some known toxicity, which is more lethal than the regular diesel. The paper relates that another objection with the biodiesel production is the use of massive land for the commercial purpose; however, conventional techniques of farming and the modifications propagated for the farmer's well-being could counteract this problem.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Coping with the Materials
The Financial Factor
Substituting Fuel with Food
Starvation and Biodiesel
The Land and Farming
Biodiesels and Toxicity Complains
The Cultural Dynamics
Political Issues and Taxation
Experimental Outcome
High in the Sky
Summary
Suggestions
Social Responses
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Despite, the efficacy and proficiency of the fuel, there are some problems associated with its usage. First, is the compatibility of the diesel with the material of the pipes used, through which the diesel flows. The O ring and hoses made of rubber which are the parts of gasket made before early 90's were of a nature to get shrunk with the use of such gas. These materials got dissolved by the degradable bio agents in the gas and have to be replaced by Viton or other type of Biodiesel compatible materials. This highly viscous biochemical has a tendency to clean out old carbon sludge from a fuel tank of an older vehicle, resulting in severely clogged fuel filter, so whenever and older vehicle is used, it became necessary to check its fuel filter intermittently. The most pronouncing problem linked to Biodiesel is that it solidifies at freezing temperatures. In a temperature below than 40 [degrees] F, the biodiesel should be made warm, blended with cold- weather anti-gel additive or mixed with normal synthetic diesel."
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Food Quality, 2006.
A paper on the position held by the American Farm Bureau regarding the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996.
1,439 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper outlines the American Farm Bureau's position that the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 (FQPA) can be be met without
restricting or canceling the safe use of pesticides. The paper explains that the FQPA, designed and implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), restricts the use of certain pesticides on any food crops raised in the U.S. and that the Farm Bureau holds that the FQPA must be also be implemented in a manner that will ensure farmers and ranchers continuous access to safe and affordable crop protection.
From the Paper
"The American Farm Bureau supports H. R. 1592, the Regulatory Fairness and Openness Act of 1999. This bill provides for guidance for all EPA limitations or cancellations of pesticides. It requires the EPA to submit a written report identifying areas where assumptions were used when data was insufficient for making tolerance decisions. It also requires the identification of any alternatives to the particular pesticides under review. The EPA must use actual data from scientific research before modifying or revoking tolerances of these pesticides."
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Water Rights and American Farmers, 2006.
An examination of the issue of subsidized water rights as relating to American farmers.
1,758 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the economic hardships facing American agricultural workers and farmers. It explains that recent persistent efforts of the national government to force American producers into a world market with little or no protection from competitive, subsidized production from other countries clearly illustrates one need to bargain for fair prices for American production. It discusses how farmers are entitled to the right to operate profitably and to extract the dollars needed to do so from the marketplace. The paper points out that the water rights are one of the ways that American farmers are helped by the government.
I. Water Rights Defined
A. Impact of Water Rights on Farmers
II. Water Issues and the Agricultural Industry
A. Farming Industry's Potential Regulatory Burden
B. EPA Strategy
C. Farming's "Side" of the Story
1. Potential Hardships Faced
III. Role of Agricultural Industry in Improved Water Quality
A. Benefits of Farming Innovations
B. Advantageous Farm Programs
1. Environmental and Economic Consideration
IV. Summary and Conclusion
V. Bibliography
From the Paper
" A water right is a legal right to use surface or ground water, as per the provisions of a particular federal or state Water Use Act . A water right allows a specific amount of water from a specific water source to be diverted, impounded, or withdrawn for a specific use. When a water right is granted, it becomes appurtenant to the land where the water is being used, for as long as the water is used. In some states where water naturally occurs as a common property resource, the landowners do not have automatic rights to either ground or surface water. In these cases, for example, if a farmer has a creek running through his property, he will need a water right to protect his use. Using water without a permit or certificate does not give the user a legal right to use the water."
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The American Farm Bureau, 2004.
A discussion regarding the American Farm Bureau and the quality of our food.
835 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper debates the continuation of the American Farm Bureau (AFB)and examines the influence of the AFB on the quality of our food. The paper discusses the problems that arose for the AFB, after the passage of the Food Quality Protection Act. The paper also claims that the Regulatory Fairness and Openness Act did not fulfill its purpose of keeping the EPA rulings reasonable.
From the Paper
"When the Delaney clause was removed from the books in 1996, the EPA assured the Farm Bureau that it would introduce a sensible approach to measuring and regulating crop protection residues in food supplies using an approach based on scientific data. American farmers were assured that scientific assessment, not perceived risk would be the method used to determine the needed regulations to ensure the safety of our food supply. Unfortunately, the EPA determined by unscientific means that organophosphates and carbamates should no longer be used for crop protection. These chemicals are used to protect many of the fruits and vegetables and have been proven safe by means that are scientific."
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Agricultural Practices in Emerging Nations, 2005.
This paper identifies sustainable agricultural practices in emerging nations especially China.
3,040 words (approx. 12.2 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in their haste to introduce market reforms and efficiencies into their antiquated agricultural systems, many emerging nations have sacrificed their environment and citizens' health in exchange for some well-intentioned but misguided short-term gains in productivity. The author points out that past agricultural practices were based on tradition and spiritual concepts; however, many emerging nations have succeeded in overcoming these constraints through innovative policies and initiatives. The paper stresses that modern western agricultural practices rely heavily on heavy and expensive equipment as well as industrial pesticides and fertilizers to wrench continued high yields from the soil are not readily transferable to many emerging nations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Existing Agricultural Practices in China Today
Innovative and Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Current and Future Trends
What Can Be Done?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Within rural sociology, sustainable agriculture is frequently considered to be a mutually exclusive "competing paradigm" that challenges conventional agriculture on environmental, economic and ideological grounds. As a result, much of the research on identifying sustainable agricultural practices has been focused on understanding the characteristics which differentiate conventional and alternative farmers, as well as the conditions that serve to constrain or facilitate the development of alternative practices and ways of thinking among farmers and agriculture more generally. For example, researchers have examined a variety of farmer and farm attributes such as age, education, orientation to risk, perception of environmental problems, farm size, and profitability; the impact of agricultural markets and prices and state policies, programs and services have also been examined extensively."
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Kudzu, 2005.
Examines this exotic species of plant and why it is considered a problem in the United States.
1,544 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
Written in question and answer form, this paper traces the history of the Kudzu vine from its natural Asia to its introduction to the United States in the late 19th Century. The paper focuses on the problems caused by Kudzu and why it is considered more of a menace these days. The paper concludes with the benefits of the plants and argues that if more people were educated about its beneficial properties, they would not be so quick to eradicate it.
From the Paper
"All non-wooden parts of the plant are edible; the leaves can be made into cooked greens or used in fresh salad, the flowers can be sauteed or fried like is traditional with squash flowers, and the roots can be used as a whole prepared dish or to starch liquids. In fact, researchers have found that traditional Asian medicine was correct about the healing properties of kudzu. Kudzu has been proven to be effective in treating alcoholism, reducing hangovers, treating migraines and other headaches, acting as an anti-inflammatory, and even being a cancer preventative. (Wikipedia) With all of these possibilities, eradication may be the least beneficial control method available. Education about this plant is the key to success for all concerned parties."
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The Beef Hormone Dispute, 2005.
This paper discusses the continuing dispute between the United States and the European Union regarding American beef treated with hormones.
2,970 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 87.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the dispute over beef hormones between the United States and the European Union has been ongoing for two decades, escalating to a ban on American beef treated with hormones, despite scientific studies supporting the fact that certain approved growth hormones posed no public health threat. The author points out that the pandemonium in the E.U. started in the early 1980s over synthetic hormone diethylstilbestrol (DES), which was banned in the United States in 1979 because of its links to cancer and birth defects, was detected in some imported baby food made with veal. The paper shows, therefore, that four European countries prohibited all hormone use in cattle, which eventually led to the ban of American beef. The paper relates that the core of the difference is that American consumers and authorities have embraced technological breakthroughs relating to foodstuffs; whereas, the Europeans tend to shy away from such advancements: In the end, the beef hormone dispute appears to be at a stalemate.
From the Paper
"The use of certain growth hormones in the American beef industry was a common occurrence in the 1970s and 1980s. American farmers saw the immediate benefits of growing beefier beef cattle and enthusiastically accepted the practice. The growth hormones, used by the United States, are actually a pellet that is implanted under the animal's skin, behind the ears. This time-release capsule slowly releases the hormones over the period of several weeks, during significant stages of growth. The cost effectiveness of this process is significant"
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Fair Trade Chocolate, 2006.
A discussion of the definition of the term "fair trade chocolate".
1,761 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how fair trade chocolate is supposed to give growers and workers of the cocoa bean a better wage than that paid by the international cartels of chocolate buyers. It also explains how fair trade chocolate could help alleviate the the problem of the millions of hungry and starving poor that exist in the world in spite of the abundance of food. Additionally, the paper presents a history of fair trade chocolate and how it contributes to the concept of sustainability.
From the Paper
"It is likely that more people are familiar with the term Fair Trade Coffee, simply because major coffee house chains have begun promoting their organic fair-trade brews. When most people think of chocolate, it is more likely to be a foil-wrapped mass-market candy bar, perhaps a Kit Kat, that is wolfed down to quiet hunger pangs without a thought to the plight of the people who produced the chocolate. As there are no trendy, global chain 'chocolate houses,' there is no monolithic commercial avenue through which to either purvey fair trade chocolate, or make its advantages known."
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Climate Change Projections, 2004.
An analysis of the projections of climatic change and the expected impact on world agriculture.
1,201 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the expected changes in climate and the ensuing affects on world agriculture. The paper claims that it is critically important to research climatic change since it affects everything on earth: man, beast, fish, fowl and organism. It also explains how climatic changes will affect the water temperature and the quality of the air.
From the Paper
"Climatologists now have stated it is with the realm of "certain probability" that humans absolutely have induced global climatic disturbances resulting in a complete change in current conditions. Furthermore, the affect that has been projected for human health is one stated to be of a nature that is diverse, "unpredictable in magnitude" and slow in emerging. Specifically stated is that the "Adverse effects are likely to outweigh beneficial effect substantially" (McMichaels, et al eds., 2004) However the changes that may be witnessed sooner rather than later are those experienced from the affects of agricultural production difficulties and disasters and mass failure of crops due to unforeseen tragedy and destruction within the earth's biosphere. "
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Cowboys, 2005.
This paper discusses the history of the American cowboy.
1,240 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the cowboy ("vaqueros", Spanish,which evolved from the root word, "vaca" meaning cow) was first introduced in 1598 in the United States then known as the New Mexico Kingdom. The author points out that the American cowboys of the late 1800's trail drives came from Anglo-Saxon, Celtic and Gaelic roots in the British Isles thus their distinctive lingo was based generally on the English language; their poems and songs are a part of the old tradition of balladry, the modern form of which is called western music. The paper relates that modern cowboys are still working in comfortable homes with their families, use advanced technology and husbandry in working cattle, use horses on the range but trucks are more common and helicopters and airplanes are used to supplement horses in herding cattle
From the Paper
"Equestrians, mounted horsemen, date back to 4000 B.C. and can be seen in Mesolithic representations of halters on domesticated horses. Archaeological evidence of horsemen in Spain can be found in rock art dating before 2000 B.C. and "in fragments of Celtic weapons, horseshoes, bridle bits and prick spurs by 500 B.C.." Other evidence from this same era include "bent-knee riders in saddles of concave silhouette" that appear in Iberian stone carvings, bronze castings, and vase paintings. During the Middle Ages, mounted herdsmen were a frequent fixture on the semi-arid lands of Spain, but rare in many other European countries, such as England and France."
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