Human Uses of the Environment Questions

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QUESTION 1: Competency Describe the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere and how they interact. Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario Each of us has directly or indirectly been impacted by a natural disaster or severe weather event. For this assignment you will be required to recall a personal, real-world experience about the power of one of the Earth’s four spheres that you have experienced in your lifetime, creating a mixed media PowerPoint presentation that brings this event to life. The goal is to illustrate the interconnectedness of the Earth’s four spheres to human health and safety, to the current state of our climate, and to the mitigation of such disasters in the future as the consequences of climate change continue to worsen. Instructions In a well-organized presentation using PowerPoint, you will construct a visual presentation that illustrates the power of a natural disaster/geologic event in history from the standpoint of a personal experience. Consider a time in your life when you have been impacted, either directly or indirectly, by a natural disaster or severe weather event. Your presentation should include the following elements as well as a robust discussion of each in the slides' speaker notes section: • • • • Discuss background, history, and location of your chosen event/disaster. (Where did this event occur? How many people were impacted by this event?) Specify measures taken to mitigate the event/disaster. (What was the response of the community/state/country to this event?) Discuss how we might mitigate a similar event/disaster in the future. (How can we mitigate disasters to more fully protect human health and safety?) Be sure to include images/maps/statistical information from your chosen event/disaster. Rubric: 1) Thoroughly and specifically discusses background history, and location of chosen event/disaster. 2) Thoroughly and specifically specifies measures taken to mitigate chosen event/disaster. 3) Thoroughly and specifically discusses how we might mitigate a similar event/disaster in the future. 4) Includes many images/maps/statistical information from chosen event/disaster. QUESTION 2: Competency Analyze the root causes, effects, and solutions of environmental problems Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario You are an environmental lobbyist who has been asked to make a presentation to your state's legislature. You will gather data about a local or regional environmental issue unique to your area or home state and prepare a PowerPoint Presentation. You may focus on any environmental issue, but the area of focus must be in your local area or home state. The environmental issue may be related to land, water, or air. Instructions Choose a Superfund website that is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You can use this search engine to find a Superfund site in your state. Each assignment leading up to the final assignment is evaluated and graded independently. Your instructor will provide specific grading criteria for each step of the project prior to its due date. The Superfund website will have information about contaminated areas, how they became contaminated, and who is responsible for the contamination, as well as clean-up plans for the contamination. Your PowerPoint Presentation should include: • Your voiceover narration using Screencast-O-Matic for each slide as well as references in APA format • The issue (background information from the website, contamination, clean-up) • The major players and stakeholders involved (the people who created the problem, the people who can fix the problem, and the people who are most impacted by the problem) • Possible controversies (differences in opinion about the issue) • Impact of this environmental issue to the surrounding environment (nearby rivers, streams, farmland, animal habitats, etc.) Rubric: 1) The issue is presented with detailed information. 2) The people and groups involved in the issue are presented with detailed information. 3) The controversy surrounding the issue is presented with detailed information. 4) The impact of the environmental issue on the surrounding environment was explained with detailed information. 5) Organized slides, and clear presentation. Sources are cited using APA style. Minimal grammar and spelling errors. Voiceover narration is clear. QUESTION 3: Competency Determine how the environment and economies are interconnected. Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario You are a member of a community planning committee. The committee is reminding local citizens about recently enacted environmental laws. You are responsible for developing an infographic to showcase one of these new laws. The infographic will be displayed at the next community meeting in the community center. Instructions The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website contains information concerning laws and regulations that impact the environment. Search this EPA website to choose one law to focus on. The infographic should contain: • A recently enacted environmental law (The law can be local or national, and focused on any part of an environment such as water, air, land, energy, wildlife, etc.) • Present the major players and the stakeholders (Who is involved and who is impacted by the new law?) • Examine the impact to the economy (Does the law help or hinder the economy and why? Do the benefits outweigh the costs?) • Identify the controversy surrounding the law (differences in opinion) • Your infographic should be clear and organized. References should be in APA format Rubric: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) The law is presented with detailed information The people and groups involved are presented with detailed information. The impact of the law to the economy was identified with detailed information. The controversy surrounding the law is presented with detailed information. Organized and clear presentation. Sources are cited using APA. Minimal grammar and spelling errors. QUESTION 4: Competency Analyze the importance of water and soil in the production and distribution of food. Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario You have been hired as an environmental scientist for a local firm. For your first project, you are asked to construct a food resiliency plan for your firm. Given our changing global climate, growing population, overuse and scarcity of resource, such a management plan for the production and distribution of food is crucial. The goal of this proposed plan is to reduce waste and CO 2 emissions contributed by your firm. Instructions Construct a detailed management plan for food resiliency. Your plan should consist of three separate paragraphs, (5-7 sentences in length) and should contain the following elements: • • • • • • Your first paragraph should specify where and how your company will source its food given a goal year (e.g., 2030). This paragraph should consider measures to promote a fluid and organized plan for food resiliency that is realistic and achievable by the end goal (e.g., aquaponics/vertical farms sourced from local community centers to give residents access to fresh, organically grown produce). Your second paragraph should specify steps or measures that will be taken to move the firm towards this food resiliency plan. This paragraph should highlight the phasing out of foods sourced from farms that use pesticides/chemicals. Your third paragraph should discuss the potential reduction in food miles and CO 2 emissions that would be achieved by the end date. This paragraph should highlight the end goal of reducing food miles and reducing CO 2 emissions through sourcing food from local sources. Rubric: 1) Student thoroughly and specifically specifies where and how the company will source its food by a pre-determined goal year (e.g. 2030). 2) Student thoroughly and specifically specifies steps or measures that will be taken to move the firm toward food resiliency. 3) Student thoroughly and specifically discusses the potential reduction in food miles and CO2 emissions that would be achieved by the end date. 4) Student thoroughly and specifically presents a fluid and organized plan for food resiliency that is realistic and achievable by the end goal (e.g., 2030). QUESTION 5: Competency Evaluate the relationship between energy use, waste, and pollution and their impacts to the environment. Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario You have been asked to identify the sources of energy you use daily in your home, and the cost of each of those sources over a 3-day period (and a monthly total estimate). While going about your daily activities, track and record your energy use in three categories (electricity, fuel, and natural gas/propane), calculating a monthly estimate for your energy costs. Contact your energy provider or research your energy provider online to determine the primary sources of energy used to power your home, and explore the potential for renewable energy sources, if your provider uses fossil fuel sources. Instructions Track your energy use for 3 days (electricity/fuel/natural gas, if applicable), using the document attached below. EVR3410-mod5-Energy-Tracker.docx Research or contact your energy providers to determine the sources of energy supplied by your providers. Compile tracked energy data into a written report, calculating a daily average cost for your energy needs. Lastly, explore options for sourcing energy from solely renewable sources. Your report should consist of the following elements: • Specify name of local energy providers and source(s) of energy used • Specify cost of energy use for the 3-day period (based on average electric bill/10 days) • Explore options for sourcing energy solely from renewable sources • If renewable options are not available, discuss ways that you can reduce energy use in your home Rubric: 1) Thoroughly and specifically specifies name of local energy provider and source(s) of energy used. 2) Thoroughly and specifically discusses cost of energy used for 3-day tracking period based on average electric bill. 3) Thoroughly and specifically explores/discusses options for sourcing energy from solely renewable energy (solar/hydropower/ geothermal/wind) 4) Thoroughly and specifically discusses ways to reduce energy use in the home if renewable energy sources are not available. QUESTION 6: Competency Apply stewardship and sustainability solutions to environmental issues. Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario You have been assigned the duty of examining how the environment relates to your place of business. You may choose one of the following career categories: healthcare, manufacturing, engineering, agriculture, food, hospitality, or information technology. In addition, your task requires you to include how the environment relates to daily life at your place of business. The goal is for you to guide colleagues and the company in the application of stewardship and sustainability. You are asked to create a newsletter that will be distributed at your workplace. In preparation to complete this task, reflect on the concepts you learned concerning the environment, such as the importance of clean air, water, and land. Also, consider how humans impact the environment with our homes, cars, purchases, and refuse. Instructions Create an article for a newsletter that includes the following: • Examine how the environment relates to your chosen career (energy, resources, chemicals, waste, pollution, etc.) • Examine how the environment relates to daily life at your workplace (energy, resources, trash, transportation, etc.) • Discuss your personal stewardship plans and recommendations (actions that manage natural resources) • Share ideas of how to live and work sustainably • Your article should be clear and organized. References should be in APA format Rubric: 1) Examined how the environment relates to the chosen career with detailed information 2) Examined how the environment relates to daily life at the workplace with detailed information. 3) Personal stewardship plans and recommendations are discussed with detailed information. 4) Shared ideas of how to live and work sustainably with detailed information. 5) References in APA format. Clear and organized newsletter. Minimal grammar and spelling errors. QUESTION 7: Competencies Describe the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere and how they interact. Analyze the root causes, effects, and solutions of environmental problems. Determine how the environment and economies are interconnected. Analyze the importance of water and soil in the production and distribution of food. Evaluate the relationship between energy use, waste, and pollution and their impacts to the environment. Apply stewardship and sustainability solutions to environmental issues. Student Success Criteria View the grading rubric for this deliverable by selecting the “This item is graded with a rubric” link, which is located in the Details & Information pane. Scenario The community of Greenburg is located near sea level at the base of a snow-capped mountain, on a secluded ocean inlet, surrounded by rugged, forested land. The only access to the city is by ferry or plane; no roads connect it to other communities in the region. Winters are wet, mild, and long. The city serves as the capital for the state of Newbridge. As such, government agencies are its leading employer, though tourism is also a major source of income, followed by commercial fishing. The city is renowned for its scenic beauty; tall mountains capped by glaciers can be seen from downtown. • Population: 32,000 • Avg. High Temp (Dec): 34oF • Avg. High Temp (June): 62oF • Annual Precipitation: 62 in. • Urban Area: 15 sq. mi. • Main Power Source: natural gas Instructions Construct a plan for sustainable energy for the hypothetical city of Greenburg. Your plan should consist of the following elements: • Specific measures to promote energy conservation measures (e.g., promoting biking by implementing a bicycle sharing program) • Specific steps to move the city toward sustainable energy production (e.g., solar facilities/greenhouses/community food production) • Consider actions that involve switching from traditional (non-renewable) energy sources to renewable sources, for both vehicles and buildings/homes • Reducing energy will help, but your plan should include a detailed plan that will move the city forward using renewable energy Rubric: 1) Clear and thorough description of measures to promote energy conservation. 2) Clear and thorough description of steps to move the city towards sustainable energy production. 3) Clear and thorough description of actions that involve switching from traditional (nonrenewable) energy sources to renewable energy sources. 4) Clear and thorough description of concrete and detailed plan that will move the city forward using renewable energy. What are the components of the biosphere? The biosphere represents the parts of Earth where life exists, extending from the highest mountaintops to the deepest ocean trenches, and everything in between from soil and tree roots to grasslands, prairies, forests, and treetops. Our biosphere has existed for approximately 3.5 billion years, initially supporting Earth’s earliest forms of life, such as single-celled organisms. The Earth is composed of what scientists refer to as spheres. The four different spheres are the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Each of the first three spheres are part of the biosphere, where all life exists. Nearly all life in Earth exists between 1,600 feet below the ocean surface to a height of nearly 4 miles above sea level. What are the components of the hydrosphere? The hydrosphere represents the liquid water component of the Earth's system. This sphere includes the world’s oceans, inland seas, lakes, rivers and streams, and ponds, covering approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface, in liquid, solid, or vapor form. In vapor form, water exists as clouds or fog. Water within the hydrosphere is in constant motion, from flowing streams and rivers to oceanic currents, to surface water and groundwater percolating down through the ground. Movement Within the Hydrologic Cycle Some motion within the hydrosphere is readily seen whereas other movement is not. Surface and deep-water currents move water from the poles to the Equator and back; rivers carry water from high elevation to sea level, and water is transported through the atmosphere through the processes of the hydrologic cycle. The hydrosphere is home to plants and animals of numerous species from microscopic protozoa to large mammals, and of course, humans. The frozen portion of the hydrosphere is referred to as the cryosphere; “kryos” in Greek means icy cold. The cryosphere includes ice caps, glaciers, sea ice, and icebergs. Scientists often refer to the biosphere as an ecosystem or biotic and abiotic community. The term abiotic refers to all non-living components of an ecosystem, from sunlight, air, water, soil and various minerals found on Earth. The term biotic refers to all living things, from microorganisms to plants, animals, and humans. Smaller ecosystems work within the biosphere to create one large ecosystem. The continuous cycle of life on Earth is made possible by the continuous cycle of nutrients from sphere to sphere. For example, nutrients are released from the remains of dead animals and plants in the ocean and soil; these nutrients are then reabsorbed by new plant growth, completing the cycle of life. In this way, the biosphere is self-supporting through this exchange and transfer of energy. Human Impact on the Biosphere and Hydrosphere Disruption of the exchange and transfer of energy can be caused by humans; improper disposal of waste, oil spills, deforestation, and CO2 emissions from vehicles and industry all contribute to this disruption. Human activities such as mining, drilling for oil, and hydraulic fracturing all contribute to air and water pollution, which affects animal and plant species. Increasing CO2 emissions have negative consequences for human health and safety. Our present and future interaction with the lithosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere will dictate the future of life in the biosphere. What are the processes in the hydrological cycle? The hydrologic cycle consists of three main processes: precipitation, condensation, and evaporation. There are several secondary processes that occur in the hydrologic cycle—below the ground, at the surface, and in the atmosphere. Precipitation that falls to Earth—in any form—moves through the Earth’s surface, remaining on the surface as groundwater or flowing downslope into streams and rivers, infiltrating into the ground, percolating downward through the Earth’s crust. Infiltration refers to the entry of water into the soil or rock surface on Earth, whereas percolation refers to the flow of water through soil or porous rock, which can occur quickly or on a long-term timescale. At the Earth’s surface, water condenses through evaporation or evapotranspiration (from plants) into the atmosphere, forming clouds through convection. The convection process occurs continually; when sufficient moisture is present in the atmosphere, convection is visible as clouds form and heighten in the atmosphere; consider clouds as they heighten vertically over time on a hot, humid summer day. When drier, less humid conditions persist and less water vapor is present, dry convection not visible to the human eye still occurs as heat builds at the Earth’s surface and rises, cools and descends back to Earth. What is the role of the hydrologic cycle on Earth? The hydrologic cycle is responsible for cycling all water throughout the crust, surface waters, and atmosphere. Gravity moves surface water (streams, rivers, lakes) to sea level; from there water is evaporated into the atmosphere and subsequently precipitated back to Earth in the form of rain, hail, sleet, or snow. The world’s oceans are the largest repository of water on Earth and an important part of the climate system. The oceans serve a twofold purpose; the first is to absorb the Sun’s radiation, which contributes to the global greenhouse effect, and the second is to redistribute the Sun’s radiation from the Equator to the poles. Surface currents in the ocean move warm tropical surface waters poleward, whereas deep water currents move cold water towards the Equator. Varying density of water, winds, and tides drive ocean currents; these currents continuously move water around the globe, transferring heat from the tropics to the polar regions, influencing climate on a local level. This large-scale movement of water plays a significant role in driving the hydrologic cycle, forcing evaporation, condensation and precipitation to occur in different regions of the world. Resource Exploitation and Pollution There are many natural resources used by humans for survival, entertainment, transportation, and comfort. The resources are called natural because the items come from the earth or from nature. Natural resources include water, trees, plants, land, food, minerals, fuels, etc. Under ideal circumstances, the acquisition of resources is regulated to minimize exploitation and reduce environmental impacts. However, there are many instances of resources being exploited for profit in developed countries. In developing countries, many times the resources are exploited by outsiders. All people require natural resources, but the poor regions of the world, such as developing countries, depend on local ecosystems for hunting and gathering in woodlands, forests, grasslands, and coastal ecosystems. These activities offer sustenance and sometimes income to those in extreme poverty in developing countries. Many people around the world do not have the luxury of shopping at the local grocery store or department store for food and supplies. The natural resources the local people in these rural communities depend upon for survival include water, soil for growing food, plants, fruit, firewood for heat, construction wood, etc. When these resources are not managed effectively, they can be overused, especially when populations are increasing. A major issue in developing countries is debt to other countries and to the World Bank. The annual loans from the World Bank in 2018 reached around $150 billion to developing countries. The World Bank, private lenders, commercial banks, and other nations lend money to developing countries for development projects. China is a large lender to developing countries. According to the World Bank, Ethiopia is a low-income country, per capita income of $790, with around 109 million people in 2018. The country received about $5 million in borrowed money during 2018 and 2019 from the World Bank to be used for agriculture and manufacturing improvements. The debt situation for many developing countries creates further problems for the local people and the environment. In order to pay payments on a country’s debt, many times poor countries depend on short-term efforts to solve problems that require long-term solutions. To pay debt, the focus for agriculture may become growing cash crops for export instead of feeding the local people. The locals of the area are harmed when their land is taken and used to grow crops for export to pay their country’s debts. Another common problem in developing countries, when attempting to pay debts, is the acceptance of the fast sale of natural resources. For example, this sort of exploitation may include logging forests or extracting minerals with no environmental restrictions. Sources of Water Pollution There are various sources of water pollution in our freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes and in our saltwater oceans and seas. The pollution in the water comes from many sources. A few of the sources of pollutants include the discharge of chemicals and wastes from factories, sewage systems, power plants, mines, and oil wells. Some of the most common nonpoint sources of pollution are agricultural runoff, storm-water drainage (from streets, parking lots, lawns), and air pollutants deposited as particles. Possible water pollutants include pathogens, organic matter, chemicals, nutrients, and fertilizers. The pathogens that can contaminate water are infectious agents that can cause sickness and even death. Feces from humans and other animals can be infected with pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other parasitic organisms. When organic matter is present in large amounts, the organic matter becomes a pollutant. For example, feces, trash, and disposed food can be harmful if it enters the water. When bacteria and detritus feeders decompose organic matter in water, they consume oxygen gas that is dissolved in the water. There are many chemical pollutants, both water-soluble inorganic chemicals and organic chemicals that can pollute water. The water-soluble inorganic chemicals include heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and nickel. In addition, the acids used for mineral extractions have drainage containing sulfuric acid. Also, acid precipitation containing sulfuric and nitric acids become chemical pollutants in the water system. The road salts used to melt snow and ice on highways contain sodium and calcium chlorides that can enter water supplies. Organic chemicals include petroleum products from oil spills and runoff from parking lots. Other organic chemicals include pesticides, fertilizers, industrial chemicals, cleaning solvents, and detergents. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and enforces the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974. The EPA has established the Drinking Water Standards covering around 94 contaminants at maximum contaminant levels. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) is a permit program that focuses on water pollution by regulating point sources that release water pollutants. Water Pollution Pollutants: Possible water pollutants include pathogens, organic matter, chemicals, nutrients, and fertilizers. Nonpoint Sources: Some of the most common nonpoint sources of pollution are agricultural runoff, storm-water drainage (from streets, parking lots, lawns), and air pollutants deposited as particles. Chemical Pollutants: Inorganic chemicals include lead, mercury, arsenic, nickel, sulfuric acid, and nitric acids. Organic chemicals include petroleum products, pesticides, fertilizers, industrial chemicals, cleaning solvents, and detergents. Point Sources: A few of the point sources of pollutants include the discharge of chemicals and wastes from factories, sewage systems, power plants, mines, and oil wells. Sources of Air Pollution The Environmental Protection Agency, under the Clean Air Act, sets standards called the criteria air pollutants. The criteria air pollutants monitored by the EPA are carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, lead, and ozone. In addition to the criteria air pollutants, greenhouse gas emissions that trap heat in the atmosphere are monitored by the EPA. When considering the criteria air pollutants, a large source of outdoor carbon monoxide is the combustion of fossil fuels in transportation vehicles and construction machinery. Indoor carbon monoxide can come from unvented gas space heaters, gas stoves, and chimneys and furnaces in need of repair. The largest source of sulfur dioxide in outdoor air is the burning of fossil fuels by power plants and other industry facilities. Other sources of sulfur dioxide emissions include extracting metal from ore and equipment that burns fuel containing high sulfur content. A primary source of nitrogen dioxide emissions is the burning of fuel in cars and other vehicles, power plants, and large equipment. Particulate matter, also called particle pollution, is a mixture of solid particles found in the air including dust, dirt, soot, and smoke. Some particulate matter is extremely small in size and can only be viewed with the aid of a microscope. The sources of particulate matter include construction sites, unpaved roads, fields, smokestacks, and fires. In addition, most of the particles present in the atmosphere are a result of chemical reactions from sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are pollutants emitted from power plants, industries, and vehicles. The major cause of lead in the atmosphere is from ore and metal processing, aircraft burning leaded fuel, waste incinerators, utilities, lead smelters, and lead-acid battery manufacturers. When ozone is present at the ground level, or troposphere, it is considered a pollutant. When ozone is present in the stratosphere, it shields living organisms from ultraviolet radiation from the sun. At the ground level, ozone is formed from the chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds in sunlight. The pollutants involved in the reactions are emitted by cars, power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, chemical plants, and other sources. The greenhouse gases common in the United States that are monitored by the EPA include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases. The common sources of carbon dioxide are burning coal, natural gas, and oil for transportation, electricity production, and industry. Also, carbon dioxide is a byproduct of many types of manufacturing. The removal of plants and trees impacts the levels of carbon dioxide, because plants and trees use carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. The most common sources of methane include burning fossil fuels, landfills, livestock, and agriculture. Nitrous oxides are produced by industrial activities, fossil fuels, landfills, and wastewater treatment. Fluorinated gases are emitted by many industrial processes. Greenhouse gases The Greenhouse gases common in the United States that are monitored by the EPA include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases. Carbon dioxide The common sources of carbon dioxide are burning coal, natural gas, and oil for transportation, electricity production, and industry. Also, carbon dioxide is a byproduct of many types of manufacturing. The removal of plants and trees impacts the levels of carbon dioxide, because plants and trees use carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. Methane The most common sources of methane include burning fossil fuels, landfills, livestock, and agriculture. Nitrous oxide Nitrous oxides are produced by industrial activities, fossil fuels, landfills, and wastewater treatment. Fluorinated gases Fluorinated gases are emitted by many industrial processes. Criteria air pollutants The Environmental Protection Agency, under the Clean Air Act, sets standards called the criteria air pollutants. The criteria air pollutants monitored by the EPA are carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, lead, and ozone. Carbon monoxide A large source of outdoor carbon monoxide is the combustion of fossil fuels in transportation vehicles and construction machinery. Indoor carbon monoxide can come from unvented gas space heaters, gas stoves, and chimneys and furnaces in need of repair. Sulfur and nitrogen dioxde The largest source of sulfur dioxide in outdoor air is the burning of fossil fuels by power plants and other industry facilities. Other sources of sulfur dioxide emissions include extracting metal from ore and equipment that burns fuel containing high sulfur content. A primary source of nitrogen dioxide emissions is the burning of fuel in cars and other vehicles, power plants, and large equipment. Lead The major cause of lead in the atmosphere is from ore and metal processing, aircraft burning leaded fuel, waste incinerators, utilities, lead smelters, and lead-acid battery manufacturers. Particulate matter Particulate matter is a mixture of solid particles found in the air including dust, dirt, soot, and smoke. Some particulate matter is extremely small in size and can only be viewed with the aid of a microscope. The sources of particulate matter include construction sites, unpaved roads, fields, smokestacks, and fires. In addition, most of the particles present in the atmosphere are a result of chemical reactions from sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are pollutants emitted from power plants, industries, and vehicles. Environmental public policies are developed at the local, state, federal, and international levels for the purpose of protecting the natural world. One of the main focuses of regulations is to protect the environment by the prevention or reduction of air, water, and land pollution and the use of natural resources such as forests, oil, and land. Environmental issues are considered in a process called the policy life cycle, and each phase of the cycle is influenced by politics. The public policy cycle begins with the recognition stage of a problem in the environment that prompts scientific research, media coverage, opposing views, and gets attention at a government level with consideration of policy creation. During the formulation stage, there is debate concerning the policy and broad media coverage. The questions concerning regulation include finances (who will pay), effectiveness (improvement to environment), efficiency (meets objectives with minimal costs), and equity (burden distributed). In the implementation stage, policy has been decided on and the move is toward regulation. The focus becomes developing specific regulations, penalties for violations, and enforcement. The final stage in the policy life cycle is the control stage; this stage is dedicated to maintaining public policy and updates as required. In the United States, Congress passes the laws, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is authorized to enforce regulations. The current laws that are enforced concerning the environment include the Clean Air Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Clean Water Act. The environmental policy regulation process for violations can include fines, required modifications, and incarceration. In recent years, there have been several large companies charged with violating the Clean Water Act. In 2017, Wood Group PSN Inc., a company that owns several offshore petroleum drilling platforms, was charged with neglect and required to pay almost 10 million dollars in fines and assigned eight felony charges for violating the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. There have also been violations in recent years of the Clean Air Act. In 2017, the Berkshire Power Company was charged with tampering with air pollution emissions equipment and reporting false information. The company was directed to pay $3 million in fines. There was a violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act in 2017 by the Cedar Valley Electroplating company. The owner of the company was sentenced to federal prison for two years for storing hazardous waste without a permit. The company was directed to pay $800,000 when the site was added to EPA’s Superfund site list. Recognition stage Environmental issues are considered in a process called the policy life cycle. The public policy cycle begins with the recognition stage of a problem that prompts scientific research, media coverage, opposing views, and gets attention at a government level with consideration of policy creation. Formulation stage During the formulation stage, there is debate concerning the policy and broad media coverage. The questions concerning regulation include finances (who will pay), effectiveness (improvement to environment), efficiency (meets objectives with minimal costs), and equity (burden distributed). Implementation stage In the implementation stage, policy has been decided on and the move is toward regulation. The focus becomes developing specific regulations, penalties for violations, and enforcement. Control stage The final stage in the policy life cycle is the control stage; this stage is dedicated to maintaining public policy and updates as required. The basis for the Earth Charter is to promote sustainable living and development worldwide. There are guiding principles utilized as a framework for citizens, businesses, organizations, government, and schools. Within the guidelines, there is a focus on protecting the earth and biosphere during development of land. The Earth Charter also set goals for maintaining biodiversity among plants and animals and promoting the recovery of endangered or threatened animals. In addition, there are guidelines to minimize non-native invasive species and genetically modified organisms that harm ecosystems. Also, there are expectations to restore nature, conserve natural resources, and manage the use of nonrenewable (fossil fuels, minerals) and renewable resources (water, soil, trees). In addition, another main theme of the Earth Charter is placing the responsibility on industry to prove the safety of products and protection of the environment. These principles urge decision makers to consider long-term and indirect consequences to the environment and to prevent pollution. Also, the traditional guidelines of reduce, reuse, and recycle are stressed with a focus on the transition to energy efficiency using solar and wind energy sources. The Earth Charter is a global initiative with companies and schools around the world utilizing its principles. The Hilton Arlington Hotel in the state of Virginia successfully incorporated the Earth Charter principles in 2010 for complete sustainability. The hotel reported savings from using energy efficient light bulbs and turning off lights and machines not in use. Other actions taken by the hotel include using tree free alternatives, completely recyclable products, environment friendly cleaning solutions, and avoiding one-time use items. The University of Wisconsin in Oshkosh implemented the Earth Charter across its campus. The school is increasing the use of energy that is produced from renewable energy, including wind and solar energy sources. Also, the campus is conserving resources and reducing pollution. In addition, the school is using light bulbs that are more energy efficient, incorporating natural sunlight in building designs, recycling used building materials, and avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides. Earth Charter Sustainability The basis for the Earth Charter is to promote sustainable living and development worldwide. Within the guidelines, there is a focus on protecting the Earth and biosphere during development of land. Maintaining biodiversity The Earth Charter also set goals for maintaining biodiversity among plants and animals and promoting the recovery of endangered or threatened animals. In addition, there are guidelines to minimize non-native invasive species and genetically modified organisms that harm ecosystems. Natural resources There are expectations to restore nature, conserve natural resources, and manage the use of nonrenewable (fossil fuels, minerals) and renewable resources (water, soil, trees). Responsibility Another main theme of the Earth Charter is placing the responsibility on industry to prove the safety of products and protection of the environment. These principles urge decision makers to consider long-term and indirect consequences to the environment and to prevent pollution. Energy efficiency The traditional guidelines of reduce, reuse, and recycle are stressed with a focus on the transition to energy efficiency using solar and wind energy sources. What is the importance of soil in the production and distribution of food? Soil health is of paramount importance for the future of agriculture. Soil is essentially a living ecosystem containing living organisms that provide the foundation for the production of food, sustaining plants, animals, and humans. Soil functions in several distinct and important ways. First, soils act to regulate water, absorbing and retaining water for dry periods. Second, soils have the capacity to filter pollutants as minerals and microbes break down pollutant byproducts, slowly detoxifying. Third, soils provide a stable infrastructure for plant roots. Fourth, soils act as a cycler for nutrients such as nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus, which support plant life. Without the continuous cycling of these nutrients, ecosystems would remain stagnant and nonfunctional. Lastly, water from irrigation, snowmelt, and rain is moved through soils to sustain thousands of different species of plants and animals. Secondary processes of the hydrologic cycle include percolation and infiltration; these processes move water through the soil. What is the importance of water in the production and distribution of food? Fresh water plays a crucial role in agriculture and is vital to human life and wellbeing. Earth’s population currently stands at 7.6 billion; by the year 2050 we may be supporting a population of 9 billion. Freshwater ecosystems such as rivers and wetlands purify water, mitigate floods, and treat human and industrial wastes. Well-functioning freshwater ecosystems provide quality water on which food, energy, and health all depend. In this way, water is crucial to the functioning of the biosphere as it influences both diversity and the distribution of plants and animals within ecosystems. Water also aides in the migration of many species each year. Our growing global population will require higher agricultural production. Currently, over 70% of the world’s freshwater is used for agriculture. As such, the greatest threat to freshwater habitats is agriculture. Over 40% of the water used for irrigation is lost to the atmosphere through evaporation. Due to the limited supply of fresh water on Earth, population growth and human consumption of water continuously put stress on the water supply. These statements are matched to most fully express the importance of soil to the production and distribution of food. • • • • • • • • Soils provide the living foundation for the production of food. Soil cycles nutrients such as nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus, which support plant life. Water from irrigation, snowmelt, and rain is moved through soils to sustain plant and animal species. Soil regulates water, filters pollutants, provides a stable infrastructure plant roots, and cycles nutrients. Soil health is of paramount importance for the future of agriculture. Soil regulates water, absorbing, and retaining water for dry periods. Soil is a living ecosystem containing living organisms. Soil filters pollutants and detoxifies through the breakdown of pollutant byproduct. Importance of Water in the Production and Distribution of Food • These statements are matched with the importance of water in the production and distribution of food. o Water helps the biosphere to function, influencing biodiversity and distribution of plants and animals. o o o o o o o Fresh water purifies water, mitigates floods, and treats human and industrial wastes. Fresh water plays a crucial role in agriculture and is vital to human life and wellbeing. Fresh water provides a stable infrastructure for plants. Water aides in the migration of numerous species each year. Fresh water filters pollutants from the soil, supporting plant life. Fresh water ecosystems provide quality water on which food, energy, and health all depend. Fresh water acts as a cycler for nutrients such as nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus, which support plant life. Impact of GMOs on Human Health and the Environment What is the effect of genetically modified crops on health, the environment, and pesticide resistance? Pesticides are widely used in agriculture to repel and kill pests; the two main types of pesticides that are commonly used are biological and synthetic. Biological pesticides work in a number of ways; they can inhibit reproduction through manipulation of insect sex hormones, or target specific pests through the introduction of viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Biopesticides are derived from natural materials and control pests in non-toxic ways; baking soda is a household example. The EPA has categorized three major classes of biopesticides: biochemical, microbial, and plant-incorporated-protectants. Advantages of biopesticides include low toxicity, reduction of the use of conventional pesticides, and quick decomposition and subsequent reduction of pollution. Synthetic, or chemical pesticides, include organophosphates, which effectively repel and kill pests but are highly toxic when introduced into the environment and subsequently consumed by humans. Developed in the 1940s in Germany, organophosphates act in a way similar to nerve gas at higher concentrations. Due to their toxicity, regulations limit their availability and use in agriculture. Organophosphates can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, disrupting signals between the brain and nerves. The potential health effects of pesticides include cancers, neurological problems, and danger to the reproductive, respiratory, endocrine, and nervous systems. Insects can inflect great damage on crops by killing or eating plants. Genetically modified organisms can be engineered to specifically target and repel certain pests by producing their own naturally occurring pesticides. An example of this is Bt corn, the bacillus Thuringiensis bacteria is found in soils throughout the world. The Bt bacteria naturally produces crystal-like proteins that selectively target and kill specific insect species. Bt corn, also known as transgenic corn, is modified to produce proteins naturally occurring in the Bt bacteria. The corn borer that feeds on Bt corn is killed when it consumes this corn. What are the primary sources of energy powering our world? Today, four major types of renewable energy are used in the United States. The renewable energy infrastructure includes solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, and geothermal energy; the increasing use of these will help us to reduce our dependence upon fossil fuels. Solar Energy The three methods of harnessing solar energy include solar heating and cooling, photovoltaics, and concentration of solar power. Solar heating and cooling and solar power concentration use heat generated by the sun to generate space heating or water heating. Photovoltaics use direct sunlight to power electronic devices as small as calculators to road signs, homes, stores, and businesses. Solar energy is very versatile, as it can be used actively or passively. For example, a small solar facility of a few acres might produce electricity that is used actively, whereas a larger solar facility might collect this energy passively for use once the sun has set. To maintain a successful solar infrastructure, social policy frameworks must exist at all levels of government to grant access to consumers and businesses alike. Currently in the U.S. solar markets are growing exponentially, with rates from 40-50% each year. Solar energy generates enough gigawatts to power nearly 14 million homes, and is effective in providing clean energy for home rooftop systems to large-scale systems. Solar Towers Active solar energy facilities include solar towers or concentrating solar power systems. Hundreds of flat panels known as heliostats surround a central tower, focusing solar radiation into a central tower. The heat energy collected by the tower is used to heat a fluid which produces electricity. Two such solar power systems operate currently in the United States; collectively these facilities produce hundreds of thousands of megawatts of electricity each year, powering homes across the nation. Environmental impacts of solar towers include bird deaths, as birds can be incinerated by the intense beam of sunlight mirrored from heliostats to towers. Wind Energy Wind energy is sourced from solar energy as it requires solar heating of the atmosphere. The irregular terrain on the Earth’s surface coupled with the rotation of the Earth allows wind to be produced. Terrain varies greatly throughout the nation, as do wind flow patterns and speeds. Wind turbines utilize wind by the revolution of long propeller blades around a central rotor. Wind flow causes air pressure on one side of the blade to decrease; this difference in pressure causes lift and drag; lift causes the rotor to spin and subsequently generate electricity. Hydropower Mechanical energy generated by flowing water is collectively referred to as hydropower. Historically, hydropower was used to grind grain and to power lumber mills. Industrial uses of hydropower began to develop in the late 1880s. Hydropower currently represents the largest renewable energy source in the United States. Through the processes of the hydrologic cycle, water moves through the Earth’s four spheres; seasonal changes in precipitation patterns and long-term droughts impact production of energy through hydropower. Power is generated at large dams, utilizing the change in elevation or drop to generate energy. Water is then pushed through a penstock into a turbine to produce electricity. Large reservoirs known as storage systems exist in more arid climates; water is held in reservoirs and released as needed for electricity. Geothermal Energy Geothermal energy is generated from steam energy in the Earth’s crust. Wells drilled into the Earth’s crust tap this steam energy, which is then brought to the surface and used in heating and cooling, electricity generation, and other applications. Geothermal energy facilities are found in countries like Japan and Iceland, and within the U.S. they are most common in the western part of the country. Some benefits of geothermal energy are consistency of electricity production, and its renewable nature. A disadvantage of geothermal energy is its slow rate of recharge; since geothermal energy is created by natural heating of the Earth’s crust, steam energy is generated gradually over time in the same way that a well is replenished by rainfall. Municipal Solid Waste Management What are the largest sources of waste (plastics, municipal solid waste, etc.) in our country? Municipal solid waste, commonly referred to as common household waste, includes plastic packaging, newspapers, milk cartons, rubber, textiles, leather, yard trimmings, food, wood, furniture, metals and other packaging materials. Of growing concern is the handling and proper disposal of municipal solid waste as our national population grows and waste generation increases. Methods of Waste Management The most common repositories for waste are landfills. As of 2018, over 10 billion cubic yards of landfill area were maintained by two the largest landfill corporations in the United States. A second method of waste management is combustion; this involves the incineration of waste, which reduces waste nearly 90% by volume and 75% by weight. The waste product, or residue created is ash, is sometimes used for other purposes but generally sent to landfills. A third, and increasingly common form of waste management is recycling and composting. Over 35% of municipal solid waste is currently recycled or composted, saving over 90 million tons of waste from landfills and combustion. Curbside recycling programs have increased in recent years, reducing the amount of waste that reaches landfills each year. Several states encourage beverage container returns through bottle deposit programs; these programs range from 5 cents to 10 cents or greater. Environmental Impacts of Municipal Solid Waste Disposing of waste in landfills impacts the environment in numerous ways; some of these impacts include atmospheric methane emissions, loss of land, and the introduction of hazardous materials through leaching into groundwater. Among contributors of methane to the atmosphere, landfills contribute just under 2% of emissions annually. Each of these impacts pose threats to human health. Combustion of waste generates dioxins, heavy metals, CO2, and numerous particulates that directly contribute to respiratory disease such as asthma, as well as damage to pulmonary and nervous systems. Sustainable Waste Management As the production of waste grows, sustainable methods to manage waste are needed. In the United States, food waste currently accounts for over 15% of municipal solid waste; much of this is not composted or recycled. The primary way to reduce waste is to reduce the sources of waste entering landfills, combustion, and recycling facilities. Meal planning and composting of food scraps reduces food waste significantly. Reducing containers and packaging or purchasing in bulk or recycled materials is helpful, as is eliminating the purchase of plastics such as plates, cutlery, plastic bottles and produce containers. At the individual level, consumers can consider ways to reduce and reuse both plastic and paper products, using cloth napkins and reusable totes when shopping. Opportunities also exist to repurpose items in our homes or communities; donating unwanted furniture for reuse or sale reduces waste in landfills. Sustainability and Stewardship The goal of sustainability is for humans to use natural resources and live in balance with nature. Humans depend on their environment for survival, so it is essential that natural resources are available for future generations. When a society is sustainable, natural resources are not depleted, and pollutants are not produced in excess of nature’s ability to absorb and clean them. Currently, the human impact on the environment is not sustainable. The use of fossil fuels as a major energy source for transportation, industry, and homes is not ideal as the rate of fossil fuel production by nature takes thousands of years. In addition, the pollution produced by using these fossil fuels has increased greenhouse gases and air pollutants that can impact human health. The pollution has also gathered in water and on land, causing a decline in wildlife biodiversity. Stewardship is the programs and actions that promote sustainability and regulate natural resources. Stewards are the people who participate in helping to minimize the destruction of the environment and reduce pollution that is harmful to human health. There are actions that can move us closer to sustainable living. Human population growth is a determining factor, since humans impact the environment; ideally the human population would shift from an ever-increasing population to a population that is flat or declining. Another factor of sustainability is the protection of ecosystems from depletion and destruction. The pollution production processes should be replaced with environmentally friendly approaches, such as transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. People can be stewards in everyday life; there are many ways to contribute to sustainability by acting as a steward. An important step is recycling items such as glass, plastic, and paper to conserve energy and reduce waste in landfills. Another helpful strategy is to drive cars that pollute less and use less energy. Small things can make a big difference over time, such as turning off lights not in use and using energy efficient light bulbs. As consumers, we can promote sustainability by buying products that are manufactured locally with sustainable materials using sustainable processes. As a steward, it is important to stay informed about environmental issues and vote for candidates who are concerned about the environment and have a vision for sustainable development. Sustainability Balance The goal of sustainability is for humans to use resources and live in balance with nature. Fossil Fuels Currently, the human impact on the environmental is not sustainable. Fossil fuel production by nature takes thousands of years. In addition, the pollution produced by utilizing fossils fuels has increased greenhouse gases and air pollutants that can impact human health. Pollution When a society is sustainable, pollutants are not produced in excess of nature's ability to absorb and clean the pollution. Survival Humans depend on the environment for survival, so it is essential that the natural resources that we require continue to be available for future generations. Solutions to Environmental Issues There are no simple solutions to repair the problems that are impacting the environment. Environmental issues include air pollution, water pollution, and land pollution. The sources of pollution are varied and complex. Humans impact the environment through overconsumption of natural resources as well as through energy use that strains the environment. The continued overuse of fossil fuels including petroleum, coal, and natural gas impacts the environment which in turn impacts humans. The expansion of humans into plant and animal habitats reduces biodiversity. The destruction of forests lessens the available oxygen in the air for humans to breathe. Since humans depend on the environment and natural resources for survival, it is important for us to protect the environment. To combat these environmental issues, citizens, companies, and governments need to cooperate. Over the past couple of decades, progress has been made toward sustainability. In 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act set aside $43 billion in green energy production. The Environmental Protection Agency established the Green Power Partnership, a program that encourages companies to buy electricity produced by renewable sources. The Intel Corporation leads by example with 3.5 billion kilowatt-hours of green power annually. The World Business Council for Sustainable Development is a network of 200 global companies promoting greater resource productivity and sustainable product manufacturing. In addition, mayors from 1,000 cities in the United States have signed the U.S. Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement, which focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions at the local level. California established the Million Solar Roofs initiative and reached 1 gigawatt at the beginning of 2012. Many colleges and universities are members of the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). Environmental Issues Environmental issues are expansive, and there are no simple solutions to repair the problems that are impacting the environment. Humans harm the environment with their everyday activities, and it is impossible to eliminate all their negative impacts. Environmental issues include air, water, and land pollution. The sources of pollution are varied and complex. Damage is also caused by the overconsumption of natural resources. The continued overuse of fossil fuels including petroleum, coal, and natural gas are impacting the environment, which in turn impacts human. The expansion of humans into plant and animal habitats is reducing biodiversity. The destruction of forests reduces the availability of oxygen in the air for humans to breathe, since plants and trees use carbon dioxide and produce oxygen.
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Environmental Sustainability in Relation
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How Environment Relates to Career

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