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.
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•
•
•
•
•
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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.
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o
o
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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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