Global Warming
http://timeforchange.org/pros-and-cons-of-global-warming
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Causes_of_global_warming/
http://blogs.ngm.com/blog_central/2009/07/shading-the-earth.html
http://www.hamariweb.com/articles/article.aspx?id=285
Genetically Modified Foods – Pros and Cons
http://www.ornl.gov/sci/techresources/Human_Genome/elsi/gmfood.shtml
http://library.thinkquest.org/TQ0312650/food.htm
http://www.nyu.edu/classes/jaeger/genetically_modified_foods.htm
http://organic.lovetoknow.com/natural-organic-food/genetically-modified-food-pros-cons
http://hubpages.com/hub/Genetically-Modified-Foods-Pros-and-Cons
http://www.csa.com/discoveryguides/gmfood/overview.php
Anthropogenic Kryptonite: It’s killing usForest Deforestation
http://www.lbl.gov/Education/ELSI/Frames/pollution-health-effects-f.html
http://www.nrdc.org/
http://www.mnforsustain.org/climate_health_effects_of_air_pollution_mishra_pern.htm
http://www.cleanairtrust.org/ozone.html
http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/health/health.htm
http://www.green-networld.com/facts/pollution.htm
Forest Deforestation
http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/deforestation-overview.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/023673_Amazon_rainforest.htm
http://edu.udym.com/pros-and-cons-of-deforestation/
Meat Consumption
http://godsdirectcontact.us/com/vegetarian/alternativeliving/cost_of_meat/english.htm
http://www.ers.usda.gov/news/BSECoverage.htm
http://www.ers.usda.gov/news/BSECoverage.htm
http://www.greenlivingtips.com/articles/321/1/Meat-consumption-statistics.html
http://www.ecomall.com/greenshopping/worldwfood8.htm
Habitat Loss
http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Conservation/Threats-to-Wildlife/Habitat-Loss.aspx
http://www.howard.k12.md.us/res/habitat/habitatloss.html
http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/species/problems/habitat_loss_degradation/
http://amphibiaweb.org/declines/HabFrag.html
Nuclear Power Plants
http://www.darvill.clara.net/altenerg/nuclear.htm
http://www.npr.org/2011/05/16/136288669/a-nuclear-powered-world
http://science.howstuffworks.com/nuclear-power5.htm
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/11/15/the-case-for-and-against-_n_781567.html#s178811&title=Con_Its_Safety
Hydro Power Plants: Friend or Foe
http://drake.marin.k12.ca.us/stuwork/rockwater/Upload%20this%20doc--dams%20and%20hydropower%20report/pros%20and%20cons.html
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/hydropower-pros-and-cons.html
http://www.edubook.com/hydropower-pros-and-cons/15441/
http://www.energy-consumers-edge.com/hydropower_dams_pros_and_cons.html
http://www.bionomicfuel.com/pros-and-cons-of-hydropower/
Biodiversity
http://www.globalchange.umich.edu/globalchange2/current/lectures/biodiversity/biodiversity.html
http://www.greenfacts.org/en/global-biodiversity-outlook/l-3/1-biodiversity-loss.htm#0p0
http://www.acoolerclimate.com/effects-of-global-warming/
http://www.globalissues.org/article/171/loss-of-biodiversity-and-extinctions#MassiveExtinctionsFromHumanActivity
Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity
http://www.thisisguernsey.com/2010/02/26/environment-weighs-up-pros-and-cons-of-biodiversity-commitment/
http://www.api.org/ehs/partnerships/environmental/conserv-wildlife.cfm
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer
http://www.greenfacts.org/en/biodiversity/
http://www.globalissues.org/article/177/nature-and-animal-conservation
http://www.wcs.org/
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v405/n6783/full/405208a0.html
Monday, June 6, 2011
Renewable energy against non-renewable energy
On the top of environmental issues in this country is energy. Where our energy comes from is dilemma. 88% of the world’s energy comes from fossil fuel energy such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Oil alone makes up about 41% of fossil fuel usage, while counts for 24% and natural gas with 21%. Fossil fuel is the primary use to make energy simply because it’s generally cheaper, where renewable energies are more expensive. The problem with the use of fossil fuels is the carbon dioxide emission, which is the major contribution to global warming and the overall climate change. The reason to why it is now the modern world’s problem is due to the birth of the industrial age. Up until then, the carbon emission was insignificant, and after the industrial age, the carbon dioxide emission headed to a j curve, a massive increase. Even now, the industrial process grows, almost or even at its peak, and there’s still an increase of carbon dioxide with no signs of decrease. Along with that issue, fossil fuels are not renewable, meaning there’s a limited amount of supply, and it will be gone in the near future. Fossil fuels are estimated to last 250-300 years from now, and it last only that due to the abundant supplies of coal. Oil, where we get 41% of our energy from, is only estimated to last about only 30 years, so expect an enormous amount of increase in gas prices in 2040. It is mandatory to come up with a solution to fill in that 41% less energy gap. Humans now have to come up with new ideas for energy to replace it, but this time not only renewable, but also sustainable and have little to no negative impact on the environment, in the time frame of about 30 years. This means a large scale transition to green energy, or renewable energy. There is certainly usage of renewable energies today, but it’s just that there hasn’t been a large scale movement towards it, due to high investment to run it. The renewable energies are wind power, biomass, hydropower, solar energy, biofuel and geothermal energy. But the best bet is to turn to solar energy, due to its potential energy being very high. Using the sun as energy, it is considered an unlimited source of energy due to the fact that the sun will last for at least another 4 billion years. There is also are no drawbacks and negative environmental impact by converting to solar energy use, making it truly the best green energy out of many options. Non-renewable energies such as fossil fuels are cheap, but aren’t sustainable and renewable to be used for a primary source of energy. While renewable are the opposites, their prices could be more affordable for everyone if there is enough support or movement toward it.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Loss of Biodiversity and Extinctions
Biodiversity boosts ecosystem productivity where each species, no matter how small, have an important role to play ecosystems can better can withstand and recover from a variety of disasters. And so y. for example, a larger number of plant species means a greater variety crops; greater species diversity ensures natural sustainability for all life forms; and healthy ecosystems can better withstand and recover from a variety of disasters. And so while we dominate this planet, we still need to preserve the diversity in wildlife. The variety of life on earth, its biological diversity is often referred to as biodiversity. The number of species of plants, animals, and microorganisms, the enormous diversity of genes in these species, the different ecosystems on the planet, such as deserts, rainforests, and coral reefs are all part of a biologically diverse Earth. Appropriate conservation and sustainable development strategies attempt to recognize this as being integral to any approach to preserving biodiversity. Almost all cultures have their roots in our biological diversity in some way or form. Declining biodiversity is therefore a concern for many reasons.
Extinction has always occurred natural. Almost all species that have lived on Earth have become extinct. Perhaps they could not cope with changes occurring in the environment, such as climate changes, the intensity of predation or disease. The extinction of any species is an irrevocable loss of part of the part of the biological richness of Earth, the only place in the universe known to support living creatures. Humans have been responsible for almost all of Earth’s recent extinctions. These extinctions are occurring so quickly that they represent a modern mass extinction of similar intensity to those documented in the geological record. Examples of recent extinctions caused by humans include such well-known cases as the dodo, passenger pigeon and great auk. Many other high-profile species have been taken to the brink of extinction, including the plains bison, whooping crane, ivory billed woodpecker, right whale and other marine animals. These losses have been caused by insatiable overhunting and intense disturbing or conversion of natural habitats.
Extinction and biodiversity can greatly impact the environment, specifically the ecosystems that are balanced by its species and animals, for example ecosystems are designed to sustain a certain type of animals/species, and they both have an essential role in the system such as the food web chain. They both keep the ecosystem and the environment in balance.
But how does Extinction affect the environment?
When an animal becomes extinct, their relationship with other organisms or animals might cause them to become extinct as well due to the relationship destruction. Foods or areas may also be exploited by other animals or organisms in the area.
Humans rely on a host of invisible services that ecosystems provide. For example, they provide foods, medicines, and energy. They also regulate nutrient and waste, lock up carbon, they maintain clean air and water, crop pollination, seed dispersal, pest and disease control, they preserve genetic diversity and provide recreation for us all. It is the biodiversity on Earth that allows (at the moment) for animals, plants, and humans to share the planet- if one species is destroyed, several, maybe hundreds more, may follow. Biodiversity is important because certain animals have economic and life values (such as rainforests’ plants being made for into medicine), they have value to the ecosystem (think of their spot on the food web), and they are a source of natural beauty and recreation.
Ecosystem Disruption caused by the loss of biodiversity in an ecosystem can also cause environmental changes. Loss of one species may cause a chain reaction, resulting in a change in the ecosystem itself. Once the organism is gone, their role cannot be taken by any other organism because that species had evolved to be in that specific role in the environment. As we do not always know what specific role specific organisms play to its environment, we cannot predict how the ecosystem will be affected if that species was to be extinct. The whole ecosystem may be weakened by the process of extinction. Overall, these two factors are very important to consider when it comes down to a sustainable environment. Though the loss of biodiversity and extinctions are similar, both can have a catastrophic impact on the ecosystems which can effect humans in the end.
Extinction has always occurred natural. Almost all species that have lived on Earth have become extinct. Perhaps they could not cope with changes occurring in the environment, such as climate changes, the intensity of predation or disease. The extinction of any species is an irrevocable loss of part of the part of the biological richness of Earth, the only place in the universe known to support living creatures. Humans have been responsible for almost all of Earth’s recent extinctions. These extinctions are occurring so quickly that they represent a modern mass extinction of similar intensity to those documented in the geological record. Examples of recent extinctions caused by humans include such well-known cases as the dodo, passenger pigeon and great auk. Many other high-profile species have been taken to the brink of extinction, including the plains bison, whooping crane, ivory billed woodpecker, right whale and other marine animals. These losses have been caused by insatiable overhunting and intense disturbing or conversion of natural habitats.
Extinction and biodiversity can greatly impact the environment, specifically the ecosystems that are balanced by its species and animals, for example ecosystems are designed to sustain a certain type of animals/species, and they both have an essential role in the system such as the food web chain. They both keep the ecosystem and the environment in balance.
But how does Extinction affect the environment?
When an animal becomes extinct, their relationship with other organisms or animals might cause them to become extinct as well due to the relationship destruction. Foods or areas may also be exploited by other animals or organisms in the area.
Humans rely on a host of invisible services that ecosystems provide. For example, they provide foods, medicines, and energy. They also regulate nutrient and waste, lock up carbon, they maintain clean air and water, crop pollination, seed dispersal, pest and disease control, they preserve genetic diversity and provide recreation for us all. It is the biodiversity on Earth that allows (at the moment) for animals, plants, and humans to share the planet- if one species is destroyed, several, maybe hundreds more, may follow. Biodiversity is important because certain animals have economic and life values (such as rainforests’ plants being made for into medicine), they have value to the ecosystem (think of their spot on the food web), and they are a source of natural beauty and recreation.
Ecosystem Disruption caused by the loss of biodiversity in an ecosystem can also cause environmental changes. Loss of one species may cause a chain reaction, resulting in a change in the ecosystem itself. Once the organism is gone, their role cannot be taken by any other organism because that species had evolved to be in that specific role in the environment. As we do not always know what specific role specific organisms play to its environment, we cannot predict how the ecosystem will be affected if that species was to be extinct. The whole ecosystem may be weakened by the process of extinction. Overall, these two factors are very important to consider when it comes down to a sustainable environment. Though the loss of biodiversity and extinctions are similar, both can have a catastrophic impact on the ecosystems which can effect humans in the end.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Is nuclear power a safe energy source?
Nuclear energy is a dream, which is why more and more countries are and should be using this energy source. We know its benefits – an affordable, available and reliable source of electricity that doesn’t generate greenhouse gases. One uranium pellet, can deliver over 17 MBTU of heat energy, which is equivalent to 1780lbs of coal, 17,000 cubic meters of natural gas, or 149 gallons of oil. In a different light, nuclear power generation is unique in how the amount of energy that is contained in a relatively small amount of volume. Burning fossil fuels for energy is dangerous to our environment for many reasons.
These include the ash, air pollution, ecosystem destruction from mining, water pollution, and etcetera. Nuclear energy doesn’t cause any type of greenhouse gases when it is running correctly. Also it causes a smaller effect on ecosystems when the uranium is mined because there is a smaller necessity for it. Uranium also heats water longer, about a few months, which is more sustainable than the short-term burning of fossil fuels, which usually lasts about a half hour.
Even though there are positive factors to nuclear energy, there are also some cons. Once certain fuels are used up it’s not a problem anymore, but in the case of nuclear energy, that is not the case. Since the fuel is both radioactive and fissionable is still concern about how the waste should be handled. Most nuclear waste remains radioactive for thousands of years. Human exposure to radiation can happen through nuclear power plant meltdowns as well as mistakes in the storage of nuclear waste.
Once radioactive contamination is started, there is a variety of different ways that it can contaminate the human body. The largest concern for safety will always be a major impediment in the progress of promoting nuclear power plants. The worst-case scenario for any nuclear power plant is the risk of a meltdown, which has proven to be very deadly in past disasters. A meltdown can be caused from a variety of human errors along with a variety of mechanical failures. Which proves: nuclear power can end catastrophic if not correctly monitored. Nuclear power can also end in a catastrophic end with the threat and chance of a terrorist attack.
Also nuclear power isn’t renewable. Renewable sources are a much better way to make energy for our planet because they are more sustainable and they can be used over and over again without causing much of a problem to ecosystems. Renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, and water power. Some renewable energy resources, such as water, may cause ecosystems to be destroyed or changed. This would be due to dams being built that will destroy surrounding areas’ ecosystems and destroying the biodiversity of the water’s ecosystem.
These include the ash, air pollution, ecosystem destruction from mining, water pollution, and etcetera. Nuclear energy doesn’t cause any type of greenhouse gases when it is running correctly. Also it causes a smaller effect on ecosystems when the uranium is mined because there is a smaller necessity for it. Uranium also heats water longer, about a few months, which is more sustainable than the short-term burning of fossil fuels, which usually lasts about a half hour.
Even though there are positive factors to nuclear energy, there are also some cons. Once certain fuels are used up it’s not a problem anymore, but in the case of nuclear energy, that is not the case. Since the fuel is both radioactive and fissionable is still concern about how the waste should be handled. Most nuclear waste remains radioactive for thousands of years. Human exposure to radiation can happen through nuclear power plant meltdowns as well as mistakes in the storage of nuclear waste.
Once radioactive contamination is started, there is a variety of different ways that it can contaminate the human body. The largest concern for safety will always be a major impediment in the progress of promoting nuclear power plants. The worst-case scenario for any nuclear power plant is the risk of a meltdown, which has proven to be very deadly in past disasters. A meltdown can be caused from a variety of human errors along with a variety of mechanical failures. Which proves: nuclear power can end catastrophic if not correctly monitored. Nuclear power can also end in a catastrophic end with the threat and chance of a terrorist attack.
Also nuclear power isn’t renewable. Renewable sources are a much better way to make energy for our planet because they are more sustainable and they can be used over and over again without causing much of a problem to ecosystems. Renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, and water power. Some renewable energy resources, such as water, may cause ecosystems to be destroyed or changed. This would be due to dams being built that will destroy surrounding areas’ ecosystems and destroying the biodiversity of the water’s ecosystem.
Hydro Power Plants: Friend or Foe
Mankind is about to dive into an energy crisis as fossil fuel gauge falls near empty, and its population creates a global climate change. But we have realized this, is we are beginning to turn away from being dependent on fossil fuel. But what do we have to turn to?
Hydro power is definitely an alternative because it would definitely solve the energy crisis effectively. At first glance, it is also a clean energy source because hydro power does not emit any carbon dioxide or any other green house gas pollutant at all. Hydro power does bring with it a great amount of benefits.
To harness hydro power, we have to build dams. These dams hold rivers back and channel amount concentrated amounts through. This concentration draws power from gravity, which forces the water down a narrow path. There would be a mill wheel that was be turned by the pushing force of the moving water. The motion of this wheel would be help turn a turbine in that is made of magnets. These magnets would spin around a cylinder copper thimble and pull on the electrons in the copper. The moving electrons are what we call electricity.
There are multiple benefits that come around with building the dam. This includes storing the water. The stored water is very useful, especially when there is a drought. The dam would provide a constant supply of water for the needed and for agriculture. Not only so, it can be used as a reservoir to provide drinking water. If not so, then the pond provided by the dam can be used as a recreational area for scenery and fishing. This also creates a new ecosystem for the area and possibly increases the bio diversity. In addition to that, the dam would eventually pay for itself and maintenance is relatively easy. Hydropower is already providing the world with 19% of its electricity. Not only so, this method is extremely safe in comparison to other methods, such as nuclear. The dam can be easily shut down, so when there is a problem, it would be solve very quickly and in turn minimize the damage from whatever the problem is. However, since the designs of these dams are so simply, fixing anything would easily and it has very few breakdowns. Not only so, it can produce a constant supply of energy and the dam itself lasts for a very long time.
Although they seem very good, the dams have some very negative aspect to it as well. The flood is a double edged sword; it creates new habitats but it also destroys the one that is already there. By damming the river, the water builds up and floods the land around it, ruining both the homes of any animals or human living in that vicinity. Not only so, it stops the water flow and repels any fish species that climbs the river in their natural migration. The turbines that are used to generate the electricity kill the fishes in the lake as well. For the people that live in that area, they would have no choice but to move out, leaving behind homes and businesses to be swap under water. The silt that usually flows down the river would also be block by the dam as well. Not only so, the flooding usually covers woodlands, which in turn generates green house gases. Not only so, the destroyed trees could no longer absorb the carbon dioxide to help with the green house gas problem. There may be few breakdowns, but when the dam is destroyed, it creates a huge issue. All the water that it holds back would rush down the river and destroy anything in its path, which includes towns and human residential areas as well as wild life. These disadvantages are a real setback to think about when political leaders decide to build a dam.
Hydro power is definitely an alternative because it would definitely solve the energy crisis effectively. At first glance, it is also a clean energy source because hydro power does not emit any carbon dioxide or any other green house gas pollutant at all. Hydro power does bring with it a great amount of benefits.
To harness hydro power, we have to build dams. These dams hold rivers back and channel amount concentrated amounts through. This concentration draws power from gravity, which forces the water down a narrow path. There would be a mill wheel that was be turned by the pushing force of the moving water. The motion of this wheel would be help turn a turbine in that is made of magnets. These magnets would spin around a cylinder copper thimble and pull on the electrons in the copper. The moving electrons are what we call electricity.
There are multiple benefits that come around with building the dam. This includes storing the water. The stored water is very useful, especially when there is a drought. The dam would provide a constant supply of water for the needed and for agriculture. Not only so, it can be used as a reservoir to provide drinking water. If not so, then the pond provided by the dam can be used as a recreational area for scenery and fishing. This also creates a new ecosystem for the area and possibly increases the bio diversity. In addition to that, the dam would eventually pay for itself and maintenance is relatively easy. Hydropower is already providing the world with 19% of its electricity. Not only so, this method is extremely safe in comparison to other methods, such as nuclear. The dam can be easily shut down, so when there is a problem, it would be solve very quickly and in turn minimize the damage from whatever the problem is. However, since the designs of these dams are so simply, fixing anything would easily and it has very few breakdowns. Not only so, it can produce a constant supply of energy and the dam itself lasts for a very long time.
Although they seem very good, the dams have some very negative aspect to it as well. The flood is a double edged sword; it creates new habitats but it also destroys the one that is already there. By damming the river, the water builds up and floods the land around it, ruining both the homes of any animals or human living in that vicinity. Not only so, it stops the water flow and repels any fish species that climbs the river in their natural migration. The turbines that are used to generate the electricity kill the fishes in the lake as well. For the people that live in that area, they would have no choice but to move out, leaving behind homes and businesses to be swap under water. The silt that usually flows down the river would also be block by the dam as well. Not only so, the flooding usually covers woodlands, which in turn generates green house gases. Not only so, the destroyed trees could no longer absorb the carbon dioxide to help with the green house gas problem. There may be few breakdowns, but when the dam is destroyed, it creates a huge issue. All the water that it holds back would rush down the river and destroy anything in its path, which includes towns and human residential areas as well as wild life. These disadvantages are a real setback to think about when political leaders decide to build a dam.
Biodiversity vs. Extinction
Biodiversity is the diverse range of organism within a specific environment. When speaking globally, the Earth is currently on the edge of a mass global extinction of its biodiversity. We wonder how mankind is planning on handling such a threatening situation, expecting world powers to act accordingly. There are economic blueprints and theories thrown here and there but yet there has not been a direct initial action to prevent any further loss of biodiversity. Approximately 10% - 30% mammals, birds, and amphibians, according to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, are being threatened of extinction due to our everyday activities from driving to the store or simply turning on the lights.
Based on the data presented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the rate of extinctions is as followed: 1 out of every 8 birds, 4 mammals, 4 conifers, 3 amphibians, and 6 out of 7 marine turtles. Climate change has taken a toll for these diverse species, where it leaves them vulnerable and exposed to such changes. The rate at which changes are at has resulted in a variety of habitat loss, on land and oceanic. The damaged done by our actions are measured on a large scale in which it would take decades to repair. From 75% of genetic diversity of agricultural crops being lost, to another additional 75% world fisheries being fully or over exploited. Besides other species, we are affecting ourselves, by depleting our resources, food supply, and water supply. The IUCN has estimated that over 350 million people will suffer from severe water scarcity. If temperatures exceed more than 3 – 5 degrees Celsius, 70% of known species will be at risk of extinction.
Species being extinct has occurred since species were introduced to planet Earth. It has been almost a natural process for ecosystems and biomes. The reasons behind common extinctions are due to unsustainable hunting, introducing alien species to new habitats, destruction of habitats (from deforestation to clearing of lands to establish use for human benefits such as housing or industries), and most important: climate change. Climate change is a natural occurrence. However, due to human actions, has been entirely altered. Constant burning of fossil fuels and natural gases for energy purposes, manufacturing, and transportation, lead to the cause of global warming. Global warming is another global issue; nevertheless it is one of the root causes of biodiversity loss. From the deterioration of our ozone layer to the rise of green house gases, temperatures will continue to rise simultaneous as we continue to destroy our environments and species. With global warming taking its toll, ocean levels rises, with rapid storms are occurring more constant and vicious. Ice caps or icy land masses leave little to no terrain for polar bears or other arctic animals to inhabit. Arctic tundra’s melts; rises in methane in the atmosphere.
Protecting the environment is difficult in terms of stabilizing the economy. It is close to impossible, but it is not. Reducing the amounts of carbon emitting materials/substances and other green house gasses will significantly help the severe declining of biodiversity. Simple actions such as unplugging unnecessary electrical outlets that are not in use may benefit greatly. Although global warming is a major cause of biodiversity loss, it is not the only factor. Pollution is also a subject matter in such losses. The pollutions of oceans and land have reduced the ecosystem of species within the given area. It is necessary to act upon this quickly, and accordingly, for time is limited
Based on the data presented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the rate of extinctions is as followed: 1 out of every 8 birds, 4 mammals, 4 conifers, 3 amphibians, and 6 out of 7 marine turtles. Climate change has taken a toll for these diverse species, where it leaves them vulnerable and exposed to such changes. The rate at which changes are at has resulted in a variety of habitat loss, on land and oceanic. The damaged done by our actions are measured on a large scale in which it would take decades to repair. From 75% of genetic diversity of agricultural crops being lost, to another additional 75% world fisheries being fully or over exploited. Besides other species, we are affecting ourselves, by depleting our resources, food supply, and water supply. The IUCN has estimated that over 350 million people will suffer from severe water scarcity. If temperatures exceed more than 3 – 5 degrees Celsius, 70% of known species will be at risk of extinction.
Species being extinct has occurred since species were introduced to planet Earth. It has been almost a natural process for ecosystems and biomes. The reasons behind common extinctions are due to unsustainable hunting, introducing alien species to new habitats, destruction of habitats (from deforestation to clearing of lands to establish use for human benefits such as housing or industries), and most important: climate change. Climate change is a natural occurrence. However, due to human actions, has been entirely altered. Constant burning of fossil fuels and natural gases for energy purposes, manufacturing, and transportation, lead to the cause of global warming. Global warming is another global issue; nevertheless it is one of the root causes of biodiversity loss. From the deterioration of our ozone layer to the rise of green house gases, temperatures will continue to rise simultaneous as we continue to destroy our environments and species. With global warming taking its toll, ocean levels rises, with rapid storms are occurring more constant and vicious. Ice caps or icy land masses leave little to no terrain for polar bears or other arctic animals to inhabit. Arctic tundra’s melts; rises in methane in the atmosphere.
Protecting the environment is difficult in terms of stabilizing the economy. It is close to impossible, but it is not. Reducing the amounts of carbon emitting materials/substances and other green house gasses will significantly help the severe declining of biodiversity. Simple actions such as unplugging unnecessary electrical outlets that are not in use may benefit greatly. Although global warming is a major cause of biodiversity loss, it is not the only factor. Pollution is also a subject matter in such losses. The pollutions of oceans and land have reduced the ecosystem of species within the given area. It is necessary to act upon this quickly, and accordingly, for time is limited
Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity
Wildlife refers to all living organisms in their natural habitat, not including plants and animals introduced by humans into the habitat. Wildlife conservation is the preservation, and restoration of organisms in the earth’s natural ecosystems. The conservation of wild life is an important environmental issue because wild life is necessary to maintain balance in capture, and food chain and nature cycles. If wild life were not preserved, the earth would suffer a loss of biodiversity. Biodiversity is the variety of species within an ecosystem. Without this variety, ecosystems would not be able to maintain themselves. The loss of one species can ruin an entire ecosystem. The lack of conservation not only has negative effects on the environment, but the well-being of humans as well.
Wildlife conservation is crucial to maintaining the balanced biodiversity of the earth. The activities that contribute to the loss of biodiversity currently taking place in the earth can all be contributed to the existence, and progression of the human race. The earth‘s loss of biodiversity can be contributed to three major ideas; the increase in the human population, increased use of finite resources, and increase of pollution. Activities like lack of safe sex education, inadequate use of green technologies, and improper waste disposal are what lead to the prior ideas. These activities in turn lead to the extinction of species, degradation of habitats, and the overall destruction of the ecological balance. Conservational practices such as the use of green technologies, being conscientious of one’s impact on the environment, and living a sustainable lifestyle can help in preventing, and reversing the loss of biodiversity. Overall, controlling human development to ensure that it does not interfere with the natural processes of the earth.
The advantages of wildlife conservation are the maintenance of ecosystems, diversity of species, and being able to live in a naturally beautiful earth. The disadvantages of wildlife conservation are the limits it puts on development; restricting construction of houses, limiting the gathering of natural resources, etc. While as a whole Wildlife conservation is positive, the negative ways it affects human’s lifestyle keep many individuals from participating in it. Another con is that in wildlife conservation, the public tends to favor certain plant or animal species over others. This could do more harm than good, because focusing on one type of species has the potential to be disadvantageous for the environment rather than beneficial.
The major advantage of biodiversity is that its maintenance results in a healthy planet. A healthy planet has a greater diversity of thriving flora and fauna species, increasing the survival rate of human, animals, and vegetation during the earth’s changing conditions. Biodiversity also benefits agriculture, science, medicine. It helps to improve crops, predict natural disasters, and develop medicine. Biodiversity also provides ecosystem services, such as maintain a stable atmosphere, and water purification. With this in mind, it is hard to believe that there are cons concerning the topic of biodiversity. One con of biodiversity is that it includes pests, and some species that have unknown uses. Also, it is expensive to conserve the environment and prevent the endangerment of species from extinction.
With the growing human population, greater strain is put on the earth’s natural resources. This strain makes other species vulnerable to loss of biodiversity and natural habitat. The conservation of the species and resources ensures the extended health of earth. Also, the diversity of the species helps to keep the earth balanced. A healthier and balanced earth can only be maintained through the conservation of the earth’s wildlife, and biodiversity.
Wildlife conservation is crucial to maintaining the balanced biodiversity of the earth. The activities that contribute to the loss of biodiversity currently taking place in the earth can all be contributed to the existence, and progression of the human race. The earth‘s loss of biodiversity can be contributed to three major ideas; the increase in the human population, increased use of finite resources, and increase of pollution. Activities like lack of safe sex education, inadequate use of green technologies, and improper waste disposal are what lead to the prior ideas. These activities in turn lead to the extinction of species, degradation of habitats, and the overall destruction of the ecological balance. Conservational practices such as the use of green technologies, being conscientious of one’s impact on the environment, and living a sustainable lifestyle can help in preventing, and reversing the loss of biodiversity. Overall, controlling human development to ensure that it does not interfere with the natural processes of the earth.
The advantages of wildlife conservation are the maintenance of ecosystems, diversity of species, and being able to live in a naturally beautiful earth. The disadvantages of wildlife conservation are the limits it puts on development; restricting construction of houses, limiting the gathering of natural resources, etc. While as a whole Wildlife conservation is positive, the negative ways it affects human’s lifestyle keep many individuals from participating in it. Another con is that in wildlife conservation, the public tends to favor certain plant or animal species over others. This could do more harm than good, because focusing on one type of species has the potential to be disadvantageous for the environment rather than beneficial.
The major advantage of biodiversity is that its maintenance results in a healthy planet. A healthy planet has a greater diversity of thriving flora and fauna species, increasing the survival rate of human, animals, and vegetation during the earth’s changing conditions. Biodiversity also benefits agriculture, science, medicine. It helps to improve crops, predict natural disasters, and develop medicine. Biodiversity also provides ecosystem services, such as maintain a stable atmosphere, and water purification. With this in mind, it is hard to believe that there are cons concerning the topic of biodiversity. One con of biodiversity is that it includes pests, and some species that have unknown uses. Also, it is expensive to conserve the environment and prevent the endangerment of species from extinction.
With the growing human population, greater strain is put on the earth’s natural resources. This strain makes other species vulnerable to loss of biodiversity and natural habitat. The conservation of the species and resources ensures the extended health of earth. Also, the diversity of the species helps to keep the earth balanced. A healthier and balanced earth can only be maintained through the conservation of the earth’s wildlife, and biodiversity.
The Coral Reefs
I grew up reading and looking at National Geographic magazines and one subject that was profoundly interesting was the life underwater. For some reason, we have a hard time understanding creatures that lurk the depths, but coral is probably the most know besides your average fish. Coral reefs over the past decade have significantly dropped and are becoming endangered by being exposed by many different factors. The overall major factor is by humans. Ocean acidification caused by runoff from several sources of human pollution, Global warming and the rising of ocean temperatures causing weakening of coral. The over-fishing and declining of biodiversity.
In general, most people believe that coral reefs are just apart of the ocean floor scenery, not knowing the actual importance of this critical organism. With that said, “Coral reefs harbor more than 25 percent of all known fish and provide our oceans with the highest biodiversity of any marine ecosystem”(http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/ effects/eco_coral.html). This would make fish more susceptible to underwater predators and easier to get caught by humans. Another benefactor is that coral reefs are now being tested and being made into a drug that is anti-cancerous (http://www.seaworld.org/ infobooks/coral/conscr.html) It is also being used for bone substitutes as the coral has pores that the bone can graft to, or grow into, and slowly allowing the bone to rebuild itself. The bone almost completely replaces the coral implant. One other benefit is that they protect shores from the impact of waves and big storms! These underwater plants maybe more vital than we expected!
One of the main reasons of the damage to coral reefs is caused by Global warming. Global warming is caused by rising levels of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere (caused mostly by human made technology) and being trapped under the ozone causing the air temperature to rise. With the rise in the temperature of the air, of course there would be an affect on the ocean temperatures as well. This causes an event called “Coral bleaching.” This is when coral loses its color due to stress, and also lose their healthy zooxanthellae, which provides coral with nutrients and oxygen. After this is lost, it takes years or even decades, to recover (http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/corp_site/ key_issues/climate_change/ climate_change_ and_the_great_barrier_reef/ what_ is_ coral_bleaching). The wonders of the coral reefs, we need to start protecting them, before its too late.
Another way the coral reefs are being relinquished is a process known as ocean acidification. Also caused by global warming, the amounts of carbon dioxide entering the ocean water is changing the ocean chemistry. The CO2 in the air is reacting with the water to create carbonic acid making the ph levels in the ocean lower which makes it more acidic. This could affect the growth of the coral skeletons and causing mass bleaching of coral reefs which in turn is killing the species. Not just the coral reefs are affected by the ecosystem around it, the zooplankton’s protective shells are also reduced, microalgae produce less calcium carbonate, and fish populations and biodiversity is lossed according to (http://www.reefresilience.org/Toolkit_Coral/COAb0_ AcidImpacts. html). Coral reefs are a home to many different organisms, and since they are starting to die off, the effects will be drastic on other species because they are dependant on the coral reefs!
Around 20% of the worlds coral reefs have been destroyed, and another 24% are at the risk of collapse due to human pressures. These underwater ecosystems help create the foundation for fish and many other species lives. This is just another reason why that us humans need to realize we re sharing this earth and we need to reduce global emissions of carbon dioxide. Global warming is having a direct impact on almost every other organism on this planet. We need to band together and stop this mess at any cost.
In general, most people believe that coral reefs are just apart of the ocean floor scenery, not knowing the actual importance of this critical organism. With that said, “Coral reefs harbor more than 25 percent of all known fish and provide our oceans with the highest biodiversity of any marine ecosystem”(http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/ effects/eco_coral.html). This would make fish more susceptible to underwater predators and easier to get caught by humans. Another benefactor is that coral reefs are now being tested and being made into a drug that is anti-cancerous (http://www.seaworld.org/ infobooks/coral/conscr.html) It is also being used for bone substitutes as the coral has pores that the bone can graft to, or grow into, and slowly allowing the bone to rebuild itself. The bone almost completely replaces the coral implant. One other benefit is that they protect shores from the impact of waves and big storms! These underwater plants maybe more vital than we expected!
One of the main reasons of the damage to coral reefs is caused by Global warming. Global warming is caused by rising levels of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere (caused mostly by human made technology) and being trapped under the ozone causing the air temperature to rise. With the rise in the temperature of the air, of course there would be an affect on the ocean temperatures as well. This causes an event called “Coral bleaching.” This is when coral loses its color due to stress, and also lose their healthy zooxanthellae, which provides coral with nutrients and oxygen. After this is lost, it takes years or even decades, to recover (http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/corp_site/ key_issues/climate_change/ climate_change_ and_the_great_barrier_reef/ what_ is_ coral_bleaching). The wonders of the coral reefs, we need to start protecting them, before its too late.
Another way the coral reefs are being relinquished is a process known as ocean acidification. Also caused by global warming, the amounts of carbon dioxide entering the ocean water is changing the ocean chemistry. The CO2 in the air is reacting with the water to create carbonic acid making the ph levels in the ocean lower which makes it more acidic. This could affect the growth of the coral skeletons and causing mass bleaching of coral reefs which in turn is killing the species. Not just the coral reefs are affected by the ecosystem around it, the zooplankton’s protective shells are also reduced, microalgae produce less calcium carbonate, and fish populations and biodiversity is lossed according to (http://www.reefresilience.org/Toolkit_Coral/COAb0_ AcidImpacts. html). Coral reefs are a home to many different organisms, and since they are starting to die off, the effects will be drastic on other species because they are dependant on the coral reefs!
Around 20% of the worlds coral reefs have been destroyed, and another 24% are at the risk of collapse due to human pressures. These underwater ecosystems help create the foundation for fish and many other species lives. This is just another reason why that us humans need to realize we re sharing this earth and we need to reduce global emissions of carbon dioxide. Global warming is having a direct impact on almost every other organism on this planet. We need to band together and stop this mess at any cost.
How Does Loss of Biodiversity affect the environment?
Biodiversity reflects the number, variety, and variability of living organisms in the environment, involving microscopic bacterias to plants and animals. This includes diversity within species, between species, and among the ecosystem. Biodiversity is everywhere; both on land and in water.
Loss of biodiversity is an important environmental issue because it can cause environmental changes. The lost of one species can cause a chain reaction which will result in a change to the ecosystem itself. We know that we cannot specify what each organisms contribute to in its environment, and we cannot predict how the ecosystem will be affected; but the overall result is that the whole ecosystem will be weakened from loss of biodiversity.
Plants and animals "produce defense mechanisms which are often chemicals used to either repel predators or to aid in elimination of their competition"(airheadsscuba). To the humans, these chemicals are important because they can become cures for human diseases. If species are lost because of our interference in its ecosystem, then we do not have the ability to be able to study it for the benefits of the people or for other living organisms.
Another problem would be that, humans would have less choices as humans. For example, if certain species are lost, we no longer would have the availability of food, enjoyment, or for the use of other resources for things that we may not know yet. Another example is, If fishes were extinct, then we would not be able to enjoy the beauty and exploration of them anymore, or also, if fishes disappear, we will lose the amount of species available for our consumption .
.independent.co.uk
One cause of loss of biodiversity is the habitat of humans and the "destruction and encroachment"(airheadsscuba) that humans continue to develop constantly everyday. This results in the destruction of the natural ecosystem. Sometimes our developments does not ruin an ecosystem, but instead decreases its size. Another cause of biodiversity loss is how humans also use coastal areas as vacation places. This affects oceans in a way that all life under the sea are affected as well; species being killed and harmed. Also, wastes that are being dumbed at sea such as, plastic in our garbages or hazardous toxins, causes injuries to many marine animals and even birds either though accidental entanglements or ingestion of the materials.
There is nothing good or benefiting towards the loss of biodiversity. Because of this, animals become extinct, humans lose medicines, ecosystems are destroyed, businesses can suffer greatly, and the ecomony deccreases due to lack of business. Humans can slow biodiversity loss by protecting areas, "Prevent intrusion from other species, informing/educating, slowing climate change, and promoting sustainability"(priweb). If humans choose to follow these guides, then the process of slowing down the loss of biodiversity will progress.
Loss of biodiversity is an important environmental issue because it can cause environmental changes. The lost of one species can cause a chain reaction which will result in a change to the ecosystem itself. We know that we cannot specify what each organisms contribute to in its environment, and we cannot predict how the ecosystem will be affected; but the overall result is that the whole ecosystem will be weakened from loss of biodiversity.
Plants and animals "produce defense mechanisms which are often chemicals used to either repel predators or to aid in elimination of their competition"(airheadsscuba). To the humans, these chemicals are important because they can become cures for human diseases. If species are lost because of our interference in its ecosystem, then we do not have the ability to be able to study it for the benefits of the people or for other living organisms.
Another problem would be that, humans would have less choices as humans. For example, if certain species are lost, we no longer would have the availability of food, enjoyment, or for the use of other resources for things that we may not know yet. Another example is, If fishes were extinct, then we would not be able to enjoy the beauty and exploration of them anymore, or also, if fishes disappear, we will lose the amount of species available for our consumption .
.independent.co.uk
One cause of loss of biodiversity is the habitat of humans and the "destruction and encroachment"(airheadsscuba) that humans continue to develop constantly everyday. This results in the destruction of the natural ecosystem. Sometimes our developments does not ruin an ecosystem, but instead decreases its size. Another cause of biodiversity loss is how humans also use coastal areas as vacation places. This affects oceans in a way that all life under the sea are affected as well; species being killed and harmed. Also, wastes that are being dumbed at sea such as, plastic in our garbages or hazardous toxins, causes injuries to many marine animals and even birds either though accidental entanglements or ingestion of the materials.
There is nothing good or benefiting towards the loss of biodiversity. Because of this, animals become extinct, humans lose medicines, ecosystems are destroyed, businesses can suffer greatly, and the ecomony deccreases due to lack of business. Humans can slow biodiversity loss by protecting areas, "Prevent intrusion from other species, informing/educating, slowing climate change, and promoting sustainability"(priweb). If humans choose to follow these guides, then the process of slowing down the loss of biodiversity will progress.
Nuclear power plants
With the rise of global climate, and rising CO2 levels we humans must find a way to change, but what solutions do we have? The constant changes in technology can fix this problem with Nuclear power, a method of splitting atoms to create energy or heat. Nuclear power is very efficient as it powers 14% of the world’s electricity. France being one of the leading countries in the use of Nuclear power, National Public Radio reported from its source, World Nuclear Association that France relies on 75.2% of its electricity from Nuclear power. But does that necessarily mean that this power source is safe?
After the disaster at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, many countries are reviewing their nuclear programs. Nuclear power is very beneficial since it does not produce greenhouses gases such as carbon dioxide, smoke, and other air pollutants, but in certain situations, such as Japans case, they are very dangerous. Nuclear power plants are safe when kept in check. This type of power is as cheap as coal, is reliable, and does not produce as much waste, and overall can be built to last fairly long. Compared to other sources of energy such as burning coal or fossil fuels, nuclear power is much cleaner for our environment.
Although it seems to have its advantages, this source of power in reality is rather dangerous. The wastes produced from these power plants are extremely radio-active, and the radioactivity in the wastes could last for thousands of years. Nuclear power works by splitting the atoms of the element Uranium; this is the process of nuclear fission. The splitting of these atoms produces energy in the form of heat. This heat boils water around the reactor which creates steam and goes through a turbine which moves generators and produces electricity. If these power plants are not maintained appropriately they could be dangerous.
In recent months Japan had a major disaster. The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant blew up and its reactors failed. This was due to a massive earthquake they experienced which produced a tsunami that hit the power plant, as a result radioactive material was thrown into the environment and thousands died of radioactive poisoning. With disasters from uncontrollable weather, and unpredicted events Nuclear power plants are exposed to many dangers, especially safety hazards from within the plant. These plants are very expensive to maintain as they have to keep many backup generators, cooling systems, and constant personal maintenance.
So is Nuclear power worth the risk, and are we at the point where this type of power is a necessary change? To most people this power source is very dangerous, but in fact nuclear power is safe, and the chances of nuclear power plants blowing up or releasing radioactive materials from unpredicted events are low. All that is needed now is support, and effort to create more safe and effective power plants that can withstand, or endure harsh conditions in dire times.
After the disaster at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, many countries are reviewing their nuclear programs. Nuclear power is very beneficial since it does not produce greenhouses gases such as carbon dioxide, smoke, and other air pollutants, but in certain situations, such as Japans case, they are very dangerous. Nuclear power plants are safe when kept in check. This type of power is as cheap as coal, is reliable, and does not produce as much waste, and overall can be built to last fairly long. Compared to other sources of energy such as burning coal or fossil fuels, nuclear power is much cleaner for our environment.
Although it seems to have its advantages, this source of power in reality is rather dangerous. The wastes produced from these power plants are extremely radio-active, and the radioactivity in the wastes could last for thousands of years. Nuclear power works by splitting the atoms of the element Uranium; this is the process of nuclear fission. The splitting of these atoms produces energy in the form of heat. This heat boils water around the reactor which creates steam and goes through a turbine which moves generators and produces electricity. If these power plants are not maintained appropriately they could be dangerous.
In recent months Japan had a major disaster. The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant blew up and its reactors failed. This was due to a massive earthquake they experienced which produced a tsunami that hit the power plant, as a result radioactive material was thrown into the environment and thousands died of radioactive poisoning. With disasters from uncontrollable weather, and unpredicted events Nuclear power plants are exposed to many dangers, especially safety hazards from within the plant. These plants are very expensive to maintain as they have to keep many backup generators, cooling systems, and constant personal maintenance.
So is Nuclear power worth the risk, and are we at the point where this type of power is a necessary change? To most people this power source is very dangerous, but in fact nuclear power is safe, and the chances of nuclear power plants blowing up or releasing radioactive materials from unpredicted events are low. All that is needed now is support, and effort to create more safe and effective power plants that can withstand, or endure harsh conditions in dire times.
Habitat loss
There are several environmental issues that occur on a daily basis. One that really stuck out was Habitat Loss. There are several reasons as to why this issue comes about, and it really effects the population of different species. A habitat is a place where animals find all their needs to survive, such as, water, shelter and food. The problem with habitat loss usually occurs with a natural disaster or human destruction. The natural disasters are hurricanes, fires or floods. Human destruction is when people decide to build houses, several building, and when clearing the land for any other construction.
This effects animal population by decreasing the reproduction which can usually lead to extinction. In order to survive many species need their habitat. As the human population continues to increase the more habitats is decreasing. Humans play an important role in the environmental pollutions in habitats. It gets into the habitat when it rains, different chemicals and debris from roads, cars, dumps or construction sites may get into the streams and many fish die or become contaminated for any other species to die off of. The importance of this is not emphasized within the government because a lot of people do not understand the effects all this pollution brings.
A lot more people should be concerned about this issue because most animals play an important role for our daily lives. There will no longer be enough products out on the market to be sold if there are not many animals which leads to the economy hitting a major downfall. Several solutions are recycling, planting trees for animals to feed off of, and using cold water instead of warm. When out in the wilderness avoid picking wild plants or flowers because it’s a source of food for animals. When out shopping look for products that are less hazardous to the environment. This is a main threat to 85% of species because they are classified as endangered or threatened by the issue.
This is a major issue that humans are most responsible for. Not only different species are affected but the human population is also. Animals must live in a safe habitat in order to survive and reproduce and the economy stays up at a high rate because of the more production by animals in the market.
This effects animal population by decreasing the reproduction which can usually lead to extinction. In order to survive many species need their habitat. As the human population continues to increase the more habitats is decreasing. Humans play an important role in the environmental pollutions in habitats. It gets into the habitat when it rains, different chemicals and debris from roads, cars, dumps or construction sites may get into the streams and many fish die or become contaminated for any other species to die off of. The importance of this is not emphasized within the government because a lot of people do not understand the effects all this pollution brings.
A lot more people should be concerned about this issue because most animals play an important role for our daily lives. There will no longer be enough products out on the market to be sold if there are not many animals which leads to the economy hitting a major downfall. Several solutions are recycling, planting trees for animals to feed off of, and using cold water instead of warm. When out in the wilderness avoid picking wild plants or flowers because it’s a source of food for animals. When out shopping look for products that are less hazardous to the environment. This is a main threat to 85% of species because they are classified as endangered or threatened by the issue.
This is a major issue that humans are most responsible for. Not only different species are affected but the human population is also. Animals must live in a safe habitat in order to survive and reproduce and the economy stays up at a high rate because of the more production by animals in the market.
Meat consumption
Meat is something we in-take everyday in our lifes. Except of course for vegans. We live in a planet with over 6 billion people. How can animals keep up with humans? How can humans keep up with animals? According to the Meat Industry us as Americans have spent over 73 billion dollars in 2009 on beef alone! Imagine how much that number went up since then. That's just one type of animal. If we don't start caring about what we put in our bodies and the source of where it come from and what they do to sell it to us. Then there is going to be a great loss in biodiversity and it is not going to be pretty.
In the year 2005, we have slaughtered just over 424 billion animals. Not only have we have slaughtered them. We also injected growth hormones because it gets the animals bulkier faster and earlier to slaughter and the earlier we get to consume. The only way to stop this is to persue the way of the vegan life. Vegans do not eat animals and they do not eat products from animals such as, eggs, milk, cheese etc. If we did not have vegans or even vegitarians our meat consumption would be doubled than what it is today. Being a vegan is very healthy but also expensive at times. Eating organic foods helps your body become healthier and you live longer. That is one way to help the consumption of meat over riseing.
But, the good thing about meat is it gives you protein. You can get protein from other sources but meat is the more reliable and easiest source to recieve protein from. It's easier because you can just go to the food store buy a pack of chicken, cook it and then eat it. Then going online finding out what you can eat that gives you protein without it being from an animal. Animals also can give out diseases such as Influenza, Measles, Tuberculosis, Whooping Cough etc. Vegans do not have to worry about that on the other hand meat consumers do.
The negative affect of meat consumption is the loss of biodiversity in the animal kingdom. This will result to a unbalenced ecosystem and eventually it will spiral out of control until it collapses and then everything else gets thrown off and unbalenced as well. Every animal has a purpose on this planet. We only have have one planet. Destroying or killing these animals will eventually kill our only planet. We cannot afford a huge misake like this. It's not as if we can press and "reset" button if we mess up. We just all need to work as a team and raise awarness. If not, our world will end sooner than we think.
Overall, we need a balance of both vegans and meat consumers. If we focus on just one part. The world is just going to fall apart. If we just eat meat then the ecosystem will be destroyed. If we all become vegans we will have a over population of animals and also we would need more room for the animals and to plant healthy food. But, if we have a healthy balance of both vegans and meat consumers then we can stay on this planet longer. We need to love the planet we live in. We say we love it, but were not treating it right. Were killing our only world. Remember there isn't a second chance at this. No reset button to press. Let's make the right decision and become involved. Not only for our world but, for yourself too.
In the year 2005, we have slaughtered just over 424 billion animals. Not only have we have slaughtered them. We also injected growth hormones because it gets the animals bulkier faster and earlier to slaughter and the earlier we get to consume. The only way to stop this is to persue the way of the vegan life. Vegans do not eat animals and they do not eat products from animals such as, eggs, milk, cheese etc. If we did not have vegans or even vegitarians our meat consumption would be doubled than what it is today. Being a vegan is very healthy but also expensive at times. Eating organic foods helps your body become healthier and you live longer. That is one way to help the consumption of meat over riseing.
But, the good thing about meat is it gives you protein. You can get protein from other sources but meat is the more reliable and easiest source to recieve protein from. It's easier because you can just go to the food store buy a pack of chicken, cook it and then eat it. Then going online finding out what you can eat that gives you protein without it being from an animal. Animals also can give out diseases such as Influenza, Measles, Tuberculosis, Whooping Cough etc. Vegans do not have to worry about that on the other hand meat consumers do.
The negative affect of meat consumption is the loss of biodiversity in the animal kingdom. This will result to a unbalenced ecosystem and eventually it will spiral out of control until it collapses and then everything else gets thrown off and unbalenced as well. Every animal has a purpose on this planet. We only have have one planet. Destroying or killing these animals will eventually kill our only planet. We cannot afford a huge misake like this. It's not as if we can press and "reset" button if we mess up. We just all need to work as a team and raise awarness. If not, our world will end sooner than we think.
Overall, we need a balance of both vegans and meat consumers. If we focus on just one part. The world is just going to fall apart. If we just eat meat then the ecosystem will be destroyed. If we all become vegans we will have a over population of animals and also we would need more room for the animals and to plant healthy food. But, if we have a healthy balance of both vegans and meat consumers then we can stay on this planet longer. We need to love the planet we live in. We say we love it, but were not treating it right. Were killing our only world. Remember there isn't a second chance at this. No reset button to press. Let's make the right decision and become involved. Not only for our world but, for yourself too.
Forest Deforestation
Forest Deforestation is one of the major issues that has been happening in this world, the cost that this issue brings is one that, us as humans will never be able to pay for. This issue is only making it harder for future generations to survive longer. An easy definition of this problem is that human power is destroying the forests of this world for a better living for humans. Although getting rid of the trees for a better living for humans seems like a good thing, this better living has consequences that rule out all of the good things that come out of it because we are destroying the world. Another name for this problem is Forest Holocaust. The problem about deforestation is that humans are getting rid of trees at a high rate since the 1900s and that rate increases more and more as you finish reading this sentence. This issue HAS to be solved or future generations will never exist because we were too selfish to only think of ourselves and not do anything about the problem.
The problem with deforestation and one major problem to this is habitat loss to all the species who live in that habitat where the forest is being decreased. So many species who are dependable on their natural habitat to survive will have to either die or adopt to a newer habitat where they will have to start all over again. Although it seems as f they can start all over again it is not very possible due to that over 70% of the trees will be destroyed the animals that wont be able to adapt will have to die, because their habitat will be gone with those trees that are going to be used to make the better living for humans.
According to National Geographic climate change is another negative that will come off deforestation the heat that would had been blocked by the trees will not be blocked and the heat will be trapped in the ground, leading to harming the water cycle where trees played an important role in it. Without the trees releasing the water vapors back to the atmosphere and in a few years or less this beautiful grassland will eventually turn into a desert. What this means is that the earth will eventually become nothing but barren sand and it will be hard for plants to reproduce and multiply and maybe become extinct because humans are not doing anything drastic to change the fate of the earth.
This problem has to stop or at least we as humans should act now and fast to change this because if we keep going without doing anything global warming will increase due to the high levels of greenhouse gases not being absorbed and just remaining in the atmosphere and again also leading to climate changes to the world. So deforestation absorbs the greenhouse gases that are not wanted in our living societies.
In this world most things have many sides tot he story there is always a good and bad side to everything a small good thing about this is that many humans who cut trees can make room for farming and survive off of that, build new roads possibly better roads new houses for people who lost their previous house to a fire or a natural disaster. To someone who is looking for the best for people like those who lost their houses or just trying to survive can be good but the heavy negative impact that deforestation can't be compared because the negative will always win.
Deforestation is big problem that cannot be ignored this issue is one of the keys to the end of the world, many species depend on the trees and plants to survive but without them how can they survive if we are destroying it, if those species die and become extinct humans are also dependent on those species for food if they are gone we will also be gone few years after they leave. Because just one small alteration to species food web it can lead to the end of the world. A solution to this issue is so simple to stop cutting trees or to reduce the percent of cutting trees to a low percent but homosapiens are so selfish and can only think of themselves and can never put anyone before themselves or balance the cutting of trees and cut when it's really instead for pleasure and satisfaction, or maybe dor every tree being cut down 2 should be planted to replace the one gone and if people do not want to follow the law they can be fined. If all humans on this planet thought of a better tomorrow together maybe the earth can last longer and our future generations will look upon the day when we their ancestors made a change that impacted their lives in a good way.
The problem with deforestation and one major problem to this is habitat loss to all the species who live in that habitat where the forest is being decreased. So many species who are dependable on their natural habitat to survive will have to either die or adopt to a newer habitat where they will have to start all over again. Although it seems as f they can start all over again it is not very possible due to that over 70% of the trees will be destroyed the animals that wont be able to adapt will have to die, because their habitat will be gone with those trees that are going to be used to make the better living for humans.
According to National Geographic climate change is another negative that will come off deforestation the heat that would had been blocked by the trees will not be blocked and the heat will be trapped in the ground, leading to harming the water cycle where trees played an important role in it. Without the trees releasing the water vapors back to the atmosphere and in a few years or less this beautiful grassland will eventually turn into a desert. What this means is that the earth will eventually become nothing but barren sand and it will be hard for plants to reproduce and multiply and maybe become extinct because humans are not doing anything drastic to change the fate of the earth.
This problem has to stop or at least we as humans should act now and fast to change this because if we keep going without doing anything global warming will increase due to the high levels of greenhouse gases not being absorbed and just remaining in the atmosphere and again also leading to climate changes to the world. So deforestation absorbs the greenhouse gases that are not wanted in our living societies.
In this world most things have many sides tot he story there is always a good and bad side to everything a small good thing about this is that many humans who cut trees can make room for farming and survive off of that, build new roads possibly better roads new houses for people who lost their previous house to a fire or a natural disaster. To someone who is looking for the best for people like those who lost their houses or just trying to survive can be good but the heavy negative impact that deforestation can't be compared because the negative will always win.
Deforestation is big problem that cannot be ignored this issue is one of the keys to the end of the world, many species depend on the trees and plants to survive but without them how can they survive if we are destroying it, if those species die and become extinct humans are also dependent on those species for food if they are gone we will also be gone few years after they leave. Because just one small alteration to species food web it can lead to the end of the world. A solution to this issue is so simple to stop cutting trees or to reduce the percent of cutting trees to a low percent but homosapiens are so selfish and can only think of themselves and can never put anyone before themselves or balance the cutting of trees and cut when it's really instead for pleasure and satisfaction, or maybe dor every tree being cut down 2 should be planted to replace the one gone and if people do not want to follow the law they can be fined. If all humans on this planet thought of a better tomorrow together maybe the earth can last longer and our future generations will look upon the day when we their ancestors made a change that impacted their lives in a good way.
Human Health Consequences from Pollution
Lois Gibbs, an American environmental activists, states, “"Everyone has some amount of dioxin in his or her body, and the average level is already high enough to endanger health." Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the human race has accelerated climate change in a way that was thought impossible, but that it’s affecting the earth and its biosphere at a global scale. Not only is there a current trend towards loss of biodiversity, but green house gases emitted into the air are damaging the ozone layer, as well as creating negative consequences on human health world wide, amongst many other reasons why we are damaging our environment as well as ourselves. Cars running around the streets are emitting a slew of carbon monoxide into the air, factories emitting toxic smoke, sewage being dumped into the sea, and oil being spilled into the ocean, are very common in our society, so common in fact that people have become used to them to the degree that they accept it as a daily event.
Some main pollutants in the air are ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter suspended in the air, sulfur dioxide, lead, toxic air pollutants, and CFCs.
Ozone is a result of motor vehicles, industrial emissions, and consumer products, and it forms in the lower layer of the atmosphere as a product of violent chemical reactions between oxygen and nitrogen oxide and sunlight. When in contact with humans, it is an irritant of the respiratory tract, produce impaired lung function and cause throat irritation, chest pain, cough, and lung inflammation, as well as difficulty taking a deep breath and worsened asthma symptoms.
Carbon monoxide, emitted from the usage of automobiles, buses, trucks, small engines, and some industrial processes, which have multiplied in use in the recent years, is one of the major pollutants. It has the ability to reduce the ability of blood to deliver oxygen to vital tissues, affecting primarily the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Even in a lower concentration it has been shown to adversely affect individuals with heart disease; higher concentrations can cause dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.
Nitrogen dioxide, also shares the same sources carbon monoxide and it increases response to allergens, and is a major component of photochemical smog, which is very harmful to the health of humans.
Particulate matter, such as toxic particulates in the air from industrial processes, smelters, automobiles, burning industrial fuels, wood smoke, dust from paved and unpaved roads, construction, and agricultural ground breaking is also harmful. It has a negative impact on respiration, causing increased respiratory disease and lung damage, and possibly premature death if it passes a certain level.
Sulfur dioxide, another component of photochemical smog, is emitted largely from industrial, institutional, utility and apartment-house furnaces and boilers, as well as petroleum refineries, smelters, paper mills, and chemical plants. Because it is a component of smog, it is partly responsible for the health effects of smog, which harm respiratory system and can lead to lake and stream acidification.
Lead, lead compounds can adversely affect human health through either ingestion of lead-contaminated soil, dust, paint, or direct inhalation. Once used in construction, it poses a high risk today, especially in little children, because at elevated lead levels can adversely affect mental development, kidney function, and blood chemistry.
Toxic air pollutants, as a result of nuclear power plants, as well as chemical plants, industrial processes, motor vehicle emissions and fuels, and building materials, are known carcinogenics and cause respiratory effects, birth defects, and reproductive and other serious health effects.
CFCs, produced as result from the use of industrial household refrigeration, cooling and cleaning processes, car and home air conditioners, some fire extinguishers, and plastic foam products, is deteriorating the protective ozone layer that protects the earth from harmful radiation. This deterioration can lead up to increase in skin cancer, cataracts, suppression of the human immune response system, and environmental damage.
Many of these pollutants can be traced to human activities and we have in a sense, created our own kryptonite, deteriorating our health. People need to start becoming more aware and politically, as well as environmentally active of protecting the environment and going ‘green’. Lowering these emissions from the atmosphere can slow down this crazy accelerated rate of ‘global warming’, and can ensure not only that we live a good and healthy live, but that the generations after us have a home. Let’s not be enemies of the earth that gives so much, nor to ourselves, but take a stand, take a stand to protect and preserve our earth.
Some main pollutants in the air are ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter suspended in the air, sulfur dioxide, lead, toxic air pollutants, and CFCs.
Ozone is a result of motor vehicles, industrial emissions, and consumer products, and it forms in the lower layer of the atmosphere as a product of violent chemical reactions between oxygen and nitrogen oxide and sunlight. When in contact with humans, it is an irritant of the respiratory tract, produce impaired lung function and cause throat irritation, chest pain, cough, and lung inflammation, as well as difficulty taking a deep breath and worsened asthma symptoms.
Carbon monoxide, emitted from the usage of automobiles, buses, trucks, small engines, and some industrial processes, which have multiplied in use in the recent years, is one of the major pollutants. It has the ability to reduce the ability of blood to deliver oxygen to vital tissues, affecting primarily the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Even in a lower concentration it has been shown to adversely affect individuals with heart disease; higher concentrations can cause dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.
Nitrogen dioxide, also shares the same sources carbon monoxide and it increases response to allergens, and is a major component of photochemical smog, which is very harmful to the health of humans.
Particulate matter, such as toxic particulates in the air from industrial processes, smelters, automobiles, burning industrial fuels, wood smoke, dust from paved and unpaved roads, construction, and agricultural ground breaking is also harmful. It has a negative impact on respiration, causing increased respiratory disease and lung damage, and possibly premature death if it passes a certain level.
Sulfur dioxide, another component of photochemical smog, is emitted largely from industrial, institutional, utility and apartment-house furnaces and boilers, as well as petroleum refineries, smelters, paper mills, and chemical plants. Because it is a component of smog, it is partly responsible for the health effects of smog, which harm respiratory system and can lead to lake and stream acidification.
Lead, lead compounds can adversely affect human health through either ingestion of lead-contaminated soil, dust, paint, or direct inhalation. Once used in construction, it poses a high risk today, especially in little children, because at elevated lead levels can adversely affect mental development, kidney function, and blood chemistry.
Toxic air pollutants, as a result of nuclear power plants, as well as chemical plants, industrial processes, motor vehicle emissions and fuels, and building materials, are known carcinogenics and cause respiratory effects, birth defects, and reproductive and other serious health effects.
CFCs, produced as result from the use of industrial household refrigeration, cooling and cleaning processes, car and home air conditioners, some fire extinguishers, and plastic foam products, is deteriorating the protective ozone layer that protects the earth from harmful radiation. This deterioration can lead up to increase in skin cancer, cataracts, suppression of the human immune response system, and environmental damage.
Many of these pollutants can be traced to human activities and we have in a sense, created our own kryptonite, deteriorating our health. People need to start becoming more aware and politically, as well as environmentally active of protecting the environment and going ‘green’. Lowering these emissions from the atmosphere can slow down this crazy accelerated rate of ‘global warming’, and can ensure not only that we live a good and healthy live, but that the generations after us have a home. Let’s not be enemies of the earth that gives so much, nor to ourselves, but take a stand, take a stand to protect and preserve our earth.
The exploitation of natural resources
Many human beings do not appreciate the beauty and value of nature's resources. As time grows, so does the population of humans which will lead to an increase of peoples' wantings and needs. To live sustainably, a socitey must use their natural resources wisely and effectively. However, todays environment is slowly being consumed and negtively affected by humans themselves who are exploiting natural resources such as natural gas, oil, coal, and forests, at a pace faster than they can replenish.
Humans wantings have became their priority rather than their needs. When it comes to powering and generating objects such as vehicles, stoves, or for heating, people take the easy way out by constantly extracting natural gases and oil and mining coal from earth. If a person today used the idea of cavemans using sticks and rocks to create fire, earth would still be flourished with natural resources like natural gas, oil, and coal. Although, the people of today are more modern and relies on modern technology that has helped advanced the use of powering and generating objects. Oil can be refined into many different energy products like gasoline, diesel fuel, and heating oil. It also provides base materials for plastics, is a source of industrial chemicals, and burns cleaner with 50% less sulfur dioxide. Natural gas is the by product of oil and is used for heating, cooking and powering cars. Coal is mainly used for power generation and produces over 50% of the U.S. electric productions. All three sources are inexpensive and are very useful. Little do many people realize that those natural resources will eventually run out until they can renew and restore themselves, which will take years.
An article from the website Msnbc.com, "How Long Will the World's Oil Last?" discusses about the production peaks that may cause significant dire for the economy. From Princeton University, geologist Kenneth Deffeyes, states, "The worry is whether there is something worse than the Great Depression of the 1930s waiting for us — particularly that the United States gets heavily hurt because we burn a quarter of the world’s oil..."(http://www.msnbc.msn.com). Today, the global demand for oil is more than 80 million barrels per day. At that rate, the world production of oil is reaching its peak and there will come a point where those resources will be depleted. From Merrill textbook Science Connections Annotated Teacher’s Version, writer Ralph M. Feather states, "At the present rate of use, it is estimated that coal reserves will last 200 more years. Petroleum may run out in 20 to 30 years, and natural gas may last only another 70 years"(http://rayharvey.org). Poeple are surviving in man made disasters and are not aware of it. Who else can they blame? And if more people were to know about those estimated numbers, they have a choice of doing something about it instead of continuing this sort of problem.
Not only is the amount of eploiting natural gas, oil, and coal exceeding, but also forests are being swallowed up for the wantings of societies. People demand for wood and land for creating, constuctioning and agriculture use. Woods are being used for building houses, furnitures, supplies, fire, etc. Land is needed for the base of homes, buildings, and to grow crops for profit. One of the process in deforestration was the method of Clear Cutting. Today, people have realized that the method of clear cutting may lead to the loss of biodiversity as well as the loss of important tropical rain forests.
Rainforests play a major role in human lives and tends the need of people. From one specific website, the creator mentions about the importances of a rainforest stating that, "These resources have included basic food supplies, clothing, shelter, fuel, spices, industrial raw materials, and medicine for all those who have lived in the majesty of the forest"(http://www.rain-tree.com/facts.htm). The creator then states that, "...more than 200,000 acres of rainforest are burned every day...150 acres lost every minute of every day, and 78 million acres lost every year...More than 20 percent of the Amazon rainforest is already gone". If this rate of destruction continues, there will be no more Amazon in the next 50 years or so. That will lead to terrible consequences. Another website mentions, "The main aspects of the situation are: serious shortages in the supply of industrial wood; ..erosion and floods accompanying the stripping of forests..;..shortages of fuel wood..; the spread of desert conditions.." (http://www.eionet.europa.eu). These consequences of deforestation will cause problems such as more air and water pollution, diseases, and an increase of global warming. There is still time to give attention to these issues before earth is completely destroyed by humans themselves.
There are pros and cons to exploiting natural resources. What is great about it is that exploiting natural resources is good for the economy (profit wise). It allows the economy to grow in businesses and helps in living the daily life. What is negative about exploiting natural resources is that the growth of demand can not match the growing pace of the natural resources. Nature's offering should be used wisely and efficiently. Greediness overpowers the human mind putting peoples wants before needs. They are endangering the environment and themselves. Humans must sacrafice a little it in order for natural resources regenerate and for them to live fulfilled and longer lives. It's not too late for change and to discover better.
Humans wantings have became their priority rather than their needs. When it comes to powering and generating objects such as vehicles, stoves, or for heating, people take the easy way out by constantly extracting natural gases and oil and mining coal from earth. If a person today used the idea of cavemans using sticks and rocks to create fire, earth would still be flourished with natural resources like natural gas, oil, and coal. Although, the people of today are more modern and relies on modern technology that has helped advanced the use of powering and generating objects. Oil can be refined into many different energy products like gasoline, diesel fuel, and heating oil. It also provides base materials for plastics, is a source of industrial chemicals, and burns cleaner with 50% less sulfur dioxide. Natural gas is the by product of oil and is used for heating, cooking and powering cars. Coal is mainly used for power generation and produces over 50% of the U.S. electric productions. All three sources are inexpensive and are very useful. Little do many people realize that those natural resources will eventually run out until they can renew and restore themselves, which will take years.
An article from the website Msnbc.com, "How Long Will the World's Oil Last?" discusses about the production peaks that may cause significant dire for the economy. From Princeton University, geologist Kenneth Deffeyes, states, "The worry is whether there is something worse than the Great Depression of the 1930s waiting for us — particularly that the United States gets heavily hurt because we burn a quarter of the world’s oil..."(http://www.msnbc.msn.com). Today, the global demand for oil is more than 80 million barrels per day. At that rate, the world production of oil is reaching its peak and there will come a point where those resources will be depleted. From Merrill textbook Science Connections Annotated Teacher’s Version, writer Ralph M. Feather states, "At the present rate of use, it is estimated that coal reserves will last 200 more years. Petroleum may run out in 20 to 30 years, and natural gas may last only another 70 years"(http://rayharvey.org). Poeple are surviving in man made disasters and are not aware of it. Who else can they blame? And if more people were to know about those estimated numbers, they have a choice of doing something about it instead of continuing this sort of problem.
Not only is the amount of eploiting natural gas, oil, and coal exceeding, but also forests are being swallowed up for the wantings of societies. People demand for wood and land for creating, constuctioning and agriculture use. Woods are being used for building houses, furnitures, supplies, fire, etc. Land is needed for the base of homes, buildings, and to grow crops for profit. One of the process in deforestration was the method of Clear Cutting. Today, people have realized that the method of clear cutting may lead to the loss of biodiversity as well as the loss of important tropical rain forests.
Rainforests play a major role in human lives and tends the need of people. From one specific website, the creator mentions about the importances of a rainforest stating that, "These resources have included basic food supplies, clothing, shelter, fuel, spices, industrial raw materials, and medicine for all those who have lived in the majesty of the forest"(http://www.rain-tree.com/facts.htm). The creator then states that, "...more than 200,000 acres of rainforest are burned every day...150 acres lost every minute of every day, and 78 million acres lost every year...More than 20 percent of the Amazon rainforest is already gone". If this rate of destruction continues, there will be no more Amazon in the next 50 years or so. That will lead to terrible consequences. Another website mentions, "The main aspects of the situation are: serious shortages in the supply of industrial wood; ..erosion and floods accompanying the stripping of forests..;..shortages of fuel wood..; the spread of desert conditions.." (http://www.eionet.europa.eu). These consequences of deforestation will cause problems such as more air and water pollution, diseases, and an increase of global warming. There is still time to give attention to these issues before earth is completely destroyed by humans themselves.
There are pros and cons to exploiting natural resources. What is great about it is that exploiting natural resources is good for the economy (profit wise). It allows the economy to grow in businesses and helps in living the daily life. What is negative about exploiting natural resources is that the growth of demand can not match the growing pace of the natural resources. Nature's offering should be used wisely and efficiently. Greediness overpowers the human mind putting peoples wants before needs. They are endangering the environment and themselves. Humans must sacrafice a little it in order for natural resources regenerate and for them to live fulfilled and longer lives. It's not too late for change and to discover better.
Genetically Modified Foods – Pros and Cons
There are many issues and benefits relating to the subject of Genetically Modified Foods. Many believe that this will solve the problem of world hunger and will create a surplus of foods and end for the worry of food shortage. But although this should be just a environmental issue it is not. Genetically Modified Food has issues in many different areas in global affairs such as environmental, economic, and political. The political and economic issues should be touched upon although I wont do much in this article but if you would like to know more they are in some of my sources. The politics of using GMFs is quite controversial in the sense of governments paying farmers and other producers to NOT produce the food. This decision affects the economy of nations in which the government is controlling the prices of food to keep businesses and other sellers running. With that said we now have to go into the environmental aspect of using GMFs and their affects on the world and its inhabitants.
The environmental benefits of using GMFs is quite simple but is very important to sustainability of growing populations around the world. One of the major benefits of GMFs is the fact that the crops being grown is maturing much faster than normal crops creating a lot more food and making it more available to the population. Another benefit of using GMFs is the dramatic reduction of pesticide use in societies using GMFs. These pesticides normally damage the surrounding environment and possibly run off into underground streams or nearby water sources and contaminate human drinking water for example. Natural effects on crops during the dry and cold seasons are no longer effective against GM crops due to the genetic change making these crops resistant to frost and drought conditions. GM crops can also carry medicines and vaccines to parts of the world where it is currently too costly to store and prepare them Genetically altered foods can also be manipulated to carry vitamins, minerals, and proteins that they otherwise would not have, increasing their healthiness.
However, many people criticize the use GMFs because of their negative side effects. GMFs can unintentionally harm other organisms, can reduce the effectiveness of pesticides with the danger of pests growing resistant to even GMF pesticides and harming the crop and gene transfer to non target species. Also there is an ongoing debate about the nutritional value of GMFs. Some scientists argue that the sped up process of producing crops causes them to not have complete nutritional values and thus less healthy than the other organic crops. Lastly there is no knowledge of the consequences of new genes being introduced into the human body or an increase in being allergic to GMFs.
The environmental benefits of using GMFs is quite simple but is very important to sustainability of growing populations around the world. One of the major benefits of GMFs is the fact that the crops being grown is maturing much faster than normal crops creating a lot more food and making it more available to the population. Another benefit of using GMFs is the dramatic reduction of pesticide use in societies using GMFs. These pesticides normally damage the surrounding environment and possibly run off into underground streams or nearby water sources and contaminate human drinking water for example. Natural effects on crops during the dry and cold seasons are no longer effective against GM crops due to the genetic change making these crops resistant to frost and drought conditions. GM crops can also carry medicines and vaccines to parts of the world where it is currently too costly to store and prepare them Genetically altered foods can also be manipulated to carry vitamins, minerals, and proteins that they otherwise would not have, increasing their healthiness.
However, many people criticize the use GMFs because of their negative side effects. GMFs can unintentionally harm other organisms, can reduce the effectiveness of pesticides with the danger of pests growing resistant to even GMF pesticides and harming the crop and gene transfer to non target species. Also there is an ongoing debate about the nutritional value of GMFs. Some scientists argue that the sped up process of producing crops causes them to not have complete nutritional values and thus less healthy than the other organic crops. Lastly there is no knowledge of the consequences of new genes being introduced into the human body or an increase in being allergic to GMFs.
Poaching: The Art of Destruction
When the American Bald Eagle was announced as an endangered species, I remember being in school and contemplating the world without them. As a child I was always taught that animals were just as deserving to live and be apart of this planet as we were; I knew that the eagle being endangered wasn’t right. Today more than ever the illegal poaching of endangered species has become an issue that needs constant scrutiny, and animals like the Camel, Dolphin, and common Chimpanzee are now on the Endangered Species list because of these illegal killings. But what many people can’t see is just how important these animals are to our Ecosystems. The near extinction of these animals (and many others) has created a drastic shift in the planets Biodiversity; ignorance is just no longer acceptable.
The illegal poaching of endangered animals is a great controversy that is not easily resolvable. In addition, many other national governments are not enforcing the illegality of poaching and in turn do not assist in the advocacy of the conservation of animals. For instance when we compare the United States’ work with endangered species to a country like Uganda, Africa the differences are evident. The United States enacted the Endangered Species Act back in 1973 in order to protect American animals like the black-footed ferret, and the north pacific right whale. This act not only protects these species but persecutes the poachers who kill, or attempt to kill them. This law clearly exemplifies the United States’ willingness to conserve our animals, and biodiversity. But many people question the need for biodiversity. Amongst the obvious environmental need for biodiversity, as species we mutually benefit from one another. For instance back in the 1930’s there was a dramatic slaughtering of prairie dogs in the West. The prairie dogs were overwhelmingly eating the crops of the farmers which ignited a furious campaign against the species. To the west prairie dogs were known as pests. However what the farmers didn’t know was how helpful the prairie dogs’ underground “towns” were to the nutrition of the soil in the field. Mutualism is a very important piece of our relationship to one another, and we cannot continue to allow animals to become extinct because of our complacency. We must stand up for our fellow species, so that we may stand up for ourselves.
Cultural, religious, and economic issues are all factors that play into poaching. We must move forward keeping all of these factors in mind, knowing that not all nations will be as receptive to this message as we are. These factors however cannot stop us from fighting for these endangered species, and bringing to justice the people who break the law. Its our responsibility to protect animals like the bald eagle, and allow our children to know the species we’ve come to love and need over time.
The illegal poaching of endangered animals is a great controversy that is not easily resolvable. In addition, many other national governments are not enforcing the illegality of poaching and in turn do not assist in the advocacy of the conservation of animals. For instance when we compare the United States’ work with endangered species to a country like Uganda, Africa the differences are evident. The United States enacted the Endangered Species Act back in 1973 in order to protect American animals like the black-footed ferret, and the north pacific right whale. This act not only protects these species but persecutes the poachers who kill, or attempt to kill them. This law clearly exemplifies the United States’ willingness to conserve our animals, and biodiversity. But many people question the need for biodiversity. Amongst the obvious environmental need for biodiversity, as species we mutually benefit from one another. For instance back in the 1930’s there was a dramatic slaughtering of prairie dogs in the West. The prairie dogs were overwhelmingly eating the crops of the farmers which ignited a furious campaign against the species. To the west prairie dogs were known as pests. However what the farmers didn’t know was how helpful the prairie dogs’ underground “towns” were to the nutrition of the soil in the field. Mutualism is a very important piece of our relationship to one another, and we cannot continue to allow animals to become extinct because of our complacency. We must stand up for our fellow species, so that we may stand up for ourselves.
Cultural, religious, and economic issues are all factors that play into poaching. We must move forward keeping all of these factors in mind, knowing that not all nations will be as receptive to this message as we are. These factors however cannot stop us from fighting for these endangered species, and bringing to justice the people who break the law. Its our responsibility to protect animals like the bald eagle, and allow our children to know the species we’ve come to love and need over time.
Global Warming
There are many things happening on our planet that is causing great negative harm to not only the planet but humans,plants and other species that also need the environment to survive. Such act is called an environmental issue, thats when the human activities issues becomes dreadful and an action need to be taken to better the planet. This negative impact on the planet is caused not by anyone but by humans themselves. One of the environmental issues facing the environment is global warming and the current cycle of global warming is changing the rhythms of climate that all living things have come to rely upon. Global warming is whe the earth heats up, as in the tempertature rises above normal or standard.It happens when greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, water vapor, nitrous oxide, and methane) trap heat and light from the sun in the earth’s atmosphere, which increases the temperature. This hurts many people, animals, and plants. Many cannot take the change, so they die.The greenhouse effect is when the temperature rises because the sun’s heat and light is trapped in the earth’s atmosphere. This is like when heat is trapped in a car. On a very hot day, the car gets hotter when it is out in the parking lot. This is because the heat and light from the sun can get into the car, by going through the windows, but it can’t get back out. This is what the greenhouse effect does to the earth. The heat and light can get through the atmosphere, but it can’t get out. As a result, the temperature rises.The sun’s heat can get into the car through the windows but is then trapped. This makes what ever the place might be, a greenhouse, a car, a building, or the earth’s atmosphere, hotter.
There are many cause of global warming such as the burning of fossil fuels,deforestation,increased concentration of aerosals etc. even thought global warming is the most powerful issues facing world leaders at the moment it has it pros and cons. For instance even though global wamring is causing great harm to the planet itself, it can be a counterproductive for personal human growth. for instance fewer snow to clean, the feeling of warmth and longer summer nights,Additional use of energy resources for cooling needs.Increased air pollution, increased allergy and asthma rates due to earlier blooming of plants,Melt of permafrost leads to destruction of structures, landslides, and avalanches,Changes to agricultural production that can lead to food shortages. Starvation, malnutrition, and increased deaths due to food and crop shortages. More extreme weather and an increased frequency of severe and catastrophic storms. Increased disease in humans and animals. Even thought a big part of global warming is negatiive it also has some postive advantages to it too for instanceArctic, Antarctic, Siberia, and other frozen regions of earth may experience more plant growth and milder climates, Northwest Passage through Canada's formerly-icy north opens up to sea transportation.Less need for energy consumption to warm cold places. Fewer deaths or injuries due to cold weather Longer growing seasons could mean increased agricultural production in some local areas.Mountains increase in height due to melting glaciers, becoming higher as they rebound against the missing weight of the ice.Ther are many scientific theoriess and comments about thhis dreadful issue facing our environment.
There are many methods that are being tried out at the moment to hel p slow down global waming or cool down the planet. There is little doubt you could cool Earth that way, because volcanoes already do it. After Mount Pinatubo erupted in the Philippines in 1991, launching ten million tons of sulfur into the stratosphere and spreading a sun-dimming haze around the planet, the average temperature dropped by about a degree Fahrenheit for a year.What do you think? As a last resort to fight global warming, should geoengineers consider building a sunshade in the stratosphere out of millions of tons of tiny reflective particles? we still dont know and its one of the suggestions that is still being taken into consderation when things gets worse.
There are many cause of global warming such as the burning of fossil fuels,deforestation,increased concentration of aerosals etc. even thought global warming is the most powerful issues facing world leaders at the moment it has it pros and cons. For instance even though global wamring is causing great harm to the planet itself, it can be a counterproductive for personal human growth. for instance fewer snow to clean, the feeling of warmth and longer summer nights,Additional use of energy resources for cooling needs.Increased air pollution, increased allergy and asthma rates due to earlier blooming of plants,Melt of permafrost leads to destruction of structures, landslides, and avalanches,Changes to agricultural production that can lead to food shortages. Starvation, malnutrition, and increased deaths due to food and crop shortages. More extreme weather and an increased frequency of severe and catastrophic storms. Increased disease in humans and animals. Even thought a big part of global warming is negatiive it also has some postive advantages to it too for instanceArctic, Antarctic, Siberia, and other frozen regions of earth may experience more plant growth and milder climates, Northwest Passage through Canada's formerly-icy north opens up to sea transportation.Less need for energy consumption to warm cold places. Fewer deaths or injuries due to cold weather Longer growing seasons could mean increased agricultural production in some local areas.Mountains increase in height due to melting glaciers, becoming higher as they rebound against the missing weight of the ice.Ther are many scientific theoriess and comments about thhis dreadful issue facing our environment.
There are many methods that are being tried out at the moment to hel p slow down global waming or cool down the planet. There is little doubt you could cool Earth that way, because volcanoes already do it. After Mount Pinatubo erupted in the Philippines in 1991, launching ten million tons of sulfur into the stratosphere and spreading a sun-dimming haze around the planet, the average temperature dropped by about a degree Fahrenheit for a year.What do you think? As a last resort to fight global warming, should geoengineers consider building a sunshade in the stratosphere out of millions of tons of tiny reflective particles? we still dont know and its one of the suggestions that is still being taken into consderation when things gets worse.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Environmental Science Research Project
Objective: Research and document the science behind one environmental topic or issue of your choosing. Carefully cite your sources and provide scientific information and resources for students to better understand your topic/issue.
Grading Rubric
5 –
Submit a word document, via Engrade.com, including a detailed synopsis of your environmental issue and a minimum of 4 links to web resources for others to better understand your subject and evidence.
Your synopsis should include a detailed description of why your topic is an important environmental issue, what activities/causes contribute to your topic, the pros and cons of your topic (if it has any benefits), and the scientific understanding of the benefits and/or dangers related to your topic.
Your web resources need to be included as a full URL
(e.g. http://whitneyscience.blogspot.com) and be labeled with the Page Title or Description.
Your citations for your synopsis should be in the MLA format. You should have at least three citations to document what you understand about your topic.
There should be no spelling or grammatical errors and your synopsis should be clear and concise (between 1-2 pages long, Times New Roman 12 pt font, single spaced).
Grading Rubric
5 –
Submit a word document, via Engrade.com, including a detailed synopsis of your environmental issue and a minimum of 4 links to web resources for others to better understand your subject and evidence.
Your synopsis should include a detailed description of why your topic is an important environmental issue, what activities/causes contribute to your topic, the pros and cons of your topic (if it has any benefits), and the scientific understanding of the benefits and/or dangers related to your topic.
Your web resources need to be included as a full URL
(e.g. http://whitneyscience.blogspot.com) and be labeled with the Page Title or Description.
Your citations for your synopsis should be in the MLA format. You should have at least three citations to document what you understand about your topic.
There should be no spelling or grammatical errors and your synopsis should be clear and concise (between 1-2 pages long, Times New Roman 12 pt font, single spaced).
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