This document provides an overview of the threats posed by climate change, including rising global temperatures, more extreme weather events, rising sea levels, impacts on human health and endangered species. It discusses possible causes such as increased human activity and greenhouse gas emissions since the Industrial Revolution. Solutions proposed include global cooperation on emissions reductions as well as balancing economic development and environmental protection. The document references debates around the seriousness of climate change and human contributions.
This presentation tells about how climate change is happening due to the population and its impact on the environment in terms of ecological impacts etc.
This document discusses the relationship between climate change and international security. It examines four aspects of security that may be impacted by climate change: human security, national security, international security, and ecological security. It explores predictions about impacts of climate change like rising sea levels and temperatures. It also analyzes how climate change may fuel conflicts over issues like water and displace large numbers of climate refugees. However, the document concludes that assumptions about "climate wars" are overstated and not supported by reality. International cooperation and complementary legal protections can help manage issues like water disputes and displacement of climate refugees.
1) The document discusses the growing threat of climate change and the need for urgent action. It notes that humans have already used up the resources meant to last for the entire year by August 2015.
2) Weather-related disasters have increased in frequency over the past decade, occurring almost daily, according to a UN report. Some parts of the world could become too hot for humans to survive outdoors by 2100 if emissions continue unchecked.
3) The document explores various efforts to raise awareness about climate change through art, activism, and fashion. This includes a climate march organized by supermodel Cameron Russell and the paintings of artist Zaria Forman depicting landscapes threatened by climate change.
The document summarizes the changing role of engineers in addressing environmental threats to national security. It notes that environmental degradation, such as climate change and ecosystem damage, poses security risks through impacts like increased extreme weather, migration, and resource conflicts. The National Action Plan on Climate Change in India recognizes this and aims to promote adaptation and mitigation strategies. Engineers will play a key role in developing technologies to build sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and other solutions to limit environmental damage and its security consequences.
The document discusses climate change and its impacts in Uganda. It provides an overview of climate change, defining it as long-term shifts in weather patterns due to human activity. It then discusses the impacts of climate change, including decreased food yields, flooding, droughts and increased spread of diseases. The document also discusses how climate change can potentially contribute to conflicts by exacerbating competition for scarce resources. It notes Africa's vulnerability to climate change due to factors like heavy reliance on agriculture and weak infrastructure. Finally, it discusses some initiatives countries in Africa have taken to address climate change.
This document is a 16,469 word MSc thesis by Heather Alberro from 2015 that examines challenges posed by contemporary capitalism and explores two social movements - The Venus Project and Transition Towns Network - as responses. It provides historical context on criticisms of capitalism dating back to the 19th century and analyzes modern issues like climate change, inequality, and environmental degradation. The thesis argues that fundamental reconstruction of social organization is needed for long-term sustainability and happiness.
Overconsumption of natural resources is the most important political issue today because it affects everyone and is primarily a power issue. Whoever controls resources like water, land, fossil fuels and minerals controls huge aspects of the global economy and subsequent population control, putting them in massive positions of power. Environmental degradation leads to conflicts over resources and human rights issues as marginalized groups are most severely impacted by resource scarcity and degradation. Continued overuse and destruction of resources will only increase global conflicts and potentially lead to worldwide collapse if not addressed.
Climate Change And Environmental SecurityJosh Gellers
This document discusses reconciling realism with environmental security by expanding the causal linkages between climate change and security issues. It argues that realism can accommodate environmental security by treating climate change as a threat multiplier that increases risks like civil unrest, economic downturns, and reduced crop yields. The document also analyzes existing typologies of direct versus indirect threats and territorial versus extraterritorial risks from climate change impacts. Finally, it proposes a comprehensive policy approach to conceptualizing the environment-security relationship and provides an example of how drought in West Africa caused by climate change could indirectly and extraterritorially impact U.S. security through foreign destabilization.
This presentation tells about how climate change is happening due to the population and its impact on the environment in terms of ecological impacts etc.
This document discusses the relationship between climate change and international security. It examines four aspects of security that may be impacted by climate change: human security, national security, international security, and ecological security. It explores predictions about impacts of climate change like rising sea levels and temperatures. It also analyzes how climate change may fuel conflicts over issues like water and displace large numbers of climate refugees. However, the document concludes that assumptions about "climate wars" are overstated and not supported by reality. International cooperation and complementary legal protections can help manage issues like water disputes and displacement of climate refugees.
1) The document discusses the growing threat of climate change and the need for urgent action. It notes that humans have already used up the resources meant to last for the entire year by August 2015.
2) Weather-related disasters have increased in frequency over the past decade, occurring almost daily, according to a UN report. Some parts of the world could become too hot for humans to survive outdoors by 2100 if emissions continue unchecked.
3) The document explores various efforts to raise awareness about climate change through art, activism, and fashion. This includes a climate march organized by supermodel Cameron Russell and the paintings of artist Zaria Forman depicting landscapes threatened by climate change.
The document summarizes the changing role of engineers in addressing environmental threats to national security. It notes that environmental degradation, such as climate change and ecosystem damage, poses security risks through impacts like increased extreme weather, migration, and resource conflicts. The National Action Plan on Climate Change in India recognizes this and aims to promote adaptation and mitigation strategies. Engineers will play a key role in developing technologies to build sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and other solutions to limit environmental damage and its security consequences.
The document discusses climate change and its impacts in Uganda. It provides an overview of climate change, defining it as long-term shifts in weather patterns due to human activity. It then discusses the impacts of climate change, including decreased food yields, flooding, droughts and increased spread of diseases. The document also discusses how climate change can potentially contribute to conflicts by exacerbating competition for scarce resources. It notes Africa's vulnerability to climate change due to factors like heavy reliance on agriculture and weak infrastructure. Finally, it discusses some initiatives countries in Africa have taken to address climate change.
This document is a 16,469 word MSc thesis by Heather Alberro from 2015 that examines challenges posed by contemporary capitalism and explores two social movements - The Venus Project and Transition Towns Network - as responses. It provides historical context on criticisms of capitalism dating back to the 19th century and analyzes modern issues like climate change, inequality, and environmental degradation. The thesis argues that fundamental reconstruction of social organization is needed for long-term sustainability and happiness.
Overconsumption of natural resources is the most important political issue today because it affects everyone and is primarily a power issue. Whoever controls resources like water, land, fossil fuels and minerals controls huge aspects of the global economy and subsequent population control, putting them in massive positions of power. Environmental degradation leads to conflicts over resources and human rights issues as marginalized groups are most severely impacted by resource scarcity and degradation. Continued overuse and destruction of resources will only increase global conflicts and potentially lead to worldwide collapse if not addressed.
Climate Change And Environmental SecurityJosh Gellers
This document discusses reconciling realism with environmental security by expanding the causal linkages between climate change and security issues. It argues that realism can accommodate environmental security by treating climate change as a threat multiplier that increases risks like civil unrest, economic downturns, and reduced crop yields. The document also analyzes existing typologies of direct versus indirect threats and territorial versus extraterritorial risks from climate change impacts. Finally, it proposes a comprehensive policy approach to conceptualizing the environment-security relationship and provides an example of how drought in West Africa caused by climate change could indirectly and extraterritorially impact U.S. security through foreign destabilization.
The document discusses how overpopulation is negatively impacting the environment in several ways:
1) Growing human populations are putting unsustainable pressure on ecosystems and natural resources.
2) Urban population growth drives environmental degradation as forests are cleared to build cities and agricultural lands.
3) Rising populations increase pollution, climate change, and demand for resources like water and arable land.
4) If population growth continues unchecked, shortages of resources could occur with serious environmental and economic consequences.
Environmental Security - National Defense & The Environmentjgordes
The document discusses connecting climate change to national security in order to garner more support for addressing it. It argues that climate change endangers security by increasing risks of conflicts over issues like food and water scarcity. Linking climate change and security policies could help enlist more support and motivate large-scale progress in renewable energy, which benefits both climate change mitigation and security.
A Right to a Decent Environment: Are Human Rights Sustainable?sebhancock
This document discusses the argument that recognizing a human right to a decent environment could help guide policy towards sustainability. It notes that current consumption and production threaten the environment we depend on. While international cooperation on climate change has faced obstacles, recognizing environmental rights may alter how we interact with nature and accommodate natural ethics. However, the rights framework would need to be reconstructed to extend rights to the natural world for this approach to be effective.
Population growth and sustainable land management in indiaAlexander Decker
This document discusses population growth, sustainable land management, and their relationship in India. It notes that many developing countries like India face problems of high population growth creating issues like poverty, food crises, and land degradation, while resources like land are limited. Sustainable land management is necessary to ensure land productivity and quality for current and future generations. The concept of sustainable land management aims to use renewable land resources like soil, water, and plants in a way that protects long-term productivity while allowing for economic and social benefits.
The document outlines 9 major challenges facing the world: 1) climate change, 2) environmental degradation, 3) biodiversity loss, 4) pollution and waste, 5) fresh water scarcity, 6) extreme poverty, 7) inequality, 8) food and nutrition insecurity, and 9) disease and health risks. Each challenge is described in terms of its impacts and raises important questions about how we can address and mitigate the issues. Key problems include warming temperatures affecting habitats and agriculture, ecosystem degradation, high species extinction rates, pollution's health impacts, growing water stress, ongoing poverty, rising inequality, need to boost food production, and unequal access to healthcare.
This document discusses the links between climate change and conflict based on a report by the Environmental Justice Foundation. It finds that climate change will be an increasingly important factor contributing to conflicts, acting as a threat multiplier in situations with existing stressors. Climate change impacts resource scarcity, human migration patterns, and state fragility. One of the most pronounced links is between climate change and access to natural resources, which may exacerbate tensions. Freshwater scarcity is also a significant factor driving political tensions between states. Climate change also presents challenges related to human migration and displacement. Fragile and post-conflict states are particularly susceptible to impacts of climate change. Urgent global action is needed to address climate change and prevent related conflicts.
Human population growth and increased affluence are placing major stresses on the environment and society's limited resources. Technology and engineering will be central to monitoring and addressing these problems, as well as creating sustainable solutions. However, predicting the future remains difficult due to uncertainties. The next 25-50 years will be decisive for mitigating stresses on the planet.
This document provides a summary of the issue of climate refugees and efforts to address sustainability concerns related to climate change migration. It discusses how climate change is intensifying natural disasters and environmental conditions, forcing people to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. This is creating a growing population of climate refugees around the world. The document outlines the impacts on migrants, host communities, and governments. It also discusses some current efforts by organizations like the UNHCR to help refugees. However, more comprehensive political and environmental solutions are still needed to fully address the root causes and humanitarian impacts of climate change migration.
The document discusses several major current environmental problems including pollution, global warming, overpopulation, natural resource depletion, waste disposal, climate change, loss of biodiversity, deforestation, ocean acidification, ozone layer depletion, acid rain, water pollution, urban sprawl, public health issues, and genetic engineering. It notes that these issues require urgent attention to avoid future environmental disasters and that individual and community awareness and action can help address some of these problems.
This document provides an overview of climate change and global warming for the American public. It explains that climate is measured over centuries rather than days or years, and that human activity is largely responsible for unprecedented warming. Even a few degrees of temperature rise could have major negative consequences like more frequent heat waves, droughts, wildfires, spread of diseases, violent storms, and rising sea levels that inundate coastal areas. The document discusses debates around these issues and seeks to provide factual information to address public confusion around the science of climate change.
1. Rapid population growth in India is threatening the environment through expansion of agriculture, uncontrolled urbanization and industrialization, and destruction of natural habitats.
2. Growing population puts pressure on land and resources, leading to issues like land degradation, soil erosion, deforestation, and pollution of water and air.
3. Population growth contributes to environmental degradation by increasing demand for food, housing, energy, and other resources, intensifying land use and degrading forests and land. Rising consumption also increases pollution and stresses ecosystems.
The document discusses major global challenges related to sustainability, including climate change, sustainable development, poverty, inequality, food and water scarcity, and more. It provides details on the impacts of climate change on human health and the challenges of ensuring sustainable water and food/agriculture. The speaker argues that with accelerating issues threatening the planet, there is a growing need for sustainable alternatives to address these interconnected problems facing humanity.
POWER OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND POTENTIAL CONFLICTS IN GLOBALIZED WORLDPrashant Mehta
Climate change poses a threat to humanity and has the potential to increase conflicts globally. While some international cooperation on climate change exists, efforts at summits like Copenhagen in 2009 have proven divisive. Scientific research shows that greenhouse gas levels are rising to unprecedented and potentially irreversible levels, increasing global temperatures and fatal consequences. As developing countries like India and China industrialize, maintaining economic growth while addressing climate change will be challenging. Climate change impacts like food and water insecurity could exacerbate environmental stresses and contribute to migration, natural disasters, domestic instability, and conflicts between states if left unaddressed. Large-scale mitigation and adaptation efforts are needed to reduce environmental stresses and prevent future climate-related conflicts.
This document provides information on various topics related to sustainable development, including population growth, conservation of natural resources, and urban sprawl. It discusses strategies for achieving sustainable development through environmental education and conservation of resources to address over-exploitation. The document also outlines threats to sustainability such as energy depletion, climate change, and ecological collapse if population continues to rise rapidly and resources are not managed properly.
Man-made environmental problems stem from overuse of natural resources due to open access issues. Environmental problems are complex as they create distortions and inequalities that can lead to conflicts. On Easter Island, overpopulation led to deforestation of palm trees, a crucial resource. The slow growth rate of palm trees meant the population outstripped the environment's ability to recover, leading to soil erosion, agricultural and fishing declines, societal collapse, and a much smaller population by the time Europeans arrived. The Easter Island case illustrates the risks of an institutional failure to effectively respond to environmental pressures from overpopulation and overuse of resources.
pursuing sustainable planetary prosperity chapter 18 US-China 2022Michael P Totten
China and the U.S. are the two largest consuming nations, their combined gross do- mestic products (GDPs) comprising one third of global GDP. The two nations consume one quarter of world natural gas and one third of world oil production, and produce nearly two thirds of world coal. The two nations are also the planet’s largest CO2 emitters, jointly releasing nearly half of the world total.
Business-as-usual scenarios are insufficient to address the acute sustainability challenges that both nations – as well as the community of nations
– are facing. However, collaboration in pursuing solutions through unprecedented statesmanship, leadership and technological advances will simultaneously provide national and global sustainability solutions.
Joint initiatives are in both of our nations’ enlightened self interest – from immediate and sustained economic and environmental gains to long-term well being and prosperity of our peoples – and will make a major, essential contribution to finding global solutions to the devastating risks facing hu- manity and the biosphere.
Climate change is currently threatening the livelihoods of millions of people by altering the natural and physical
assets they rely on. The challenge for adaptation technologies is to deal with the potential for future
changes whilst being resilient to climate variability. Uncertainty about how climate change will manifest in a precise location requires cautions when selecting a
technological solution to avoid locking a community to an unsuitable technology.
Israel is recognized as being at the forefront of high-tech innovation, backed by a highly educated and creative
workforce and a sound infrastructure. The Israeli industry is always breaching for newer and innovative technologies.
Today Israel has about 350 cleantech companies and they are developing and growing constantly. In the following publication a review of the different adaptation technologies offered by Israeli industry will be outlined
by sectors and numerous subsectors.
This document discusses a senior capstone project about global warming. It covers three main topics: science competency, cross-cultural competency, and ethical reflection. For science competency, it examines the fundamental science behind global warming, its effects on the environment and humans. For cross-cultural competency, it discusses environmental justice, discrimination regarding survival for those without shelter. For ethics, it considers the demographics and socio-cultural dynamics of impoverished humans without shelter.
The document discusses environmental degradation as a result of globalization, highlighting issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and threats to indigenous cultures in Egypt. As 95% of Egyptians live along the River Nile, water scarcity is a major problem exacerbated by population growth, climate change, and use of water for agriculture. Environmental degradation has occurred through pollution, overuse of resources, and destruction of natural habitats, disrupting ecosystems and threatening some indigenous ways of life.
Problem Statement 1
Problem Statement
Alicia Harris
Julia Intawiwat
English 215
11/05/2017
Climate Change and Destruction of Natural Resources
Indeed, a problem exists in the world, and it is posing a great threat to human life. Natural resources are down by at least 60% and what is left is also under attack, the climatic conditions are worsening by the day. It is a problem that is universal and affecting every part of the world. Climate change refers to the global or regional climate patterns which changed in the mid and late 20th century due to various factors such as increased amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere produced largely by use of fossil fuels (Costanza 36). Climate change is causing more harm than good from farming to other business that depends on natural resources for their establishment, these funds are being destroyed by human beings for personal gains without caring about the adverse effects the destruction has on the universe.
History, overview, and Status
Climate change was experienced in the late 20th century, and it has grown tremendously ever since. The climate patterns currently are unpredictable, and no one can rely on what they thought were the patterns previously. Climate change is a problem that is directly affecting natural resources where currently trees bud in the spring, lakes freeze and thaw while extreme events that affect large water masses are caused by changing temperatures and precipitations (Le Billon 25). Some animal species have died and are become distinct due to the problem while others are migrating to a new location in search of food sources and breeding zones. It has been reported that cases of diseases and pests outbreak in the forests have increased in the 21st century compared to years ago. Effects are more than normal since every sector is affected including the fish and aquatic life, wildlife, wetlands, drylands as well, parks and other reserved areas, water bodies and plants among others.
Economic Problems Invited by Climatic Changes
The international community has tried a lot to deal constructively with the problem of countering climate change over the past two decades. Climate change is the preeminent global crisis of our time, and through various measures and policies have been put in place, minimal positive growth is recorded. With the many articles, comprehensive reviews, and intensive research, a conclusion drawn from them is that the costs and benefits of mitigating climate change in the next five decades are uncertain (Le Billon 64). So far a lot of money has been spent by the government and non-governmental organizations to save up the world from issues to brought about by climate chang.
Climate change in context of sustainable developmentsajid ali
Climate change poses threats to global food production, ecosystems, and human settlements. Developing countries are especially vulnerable due to their dependence on agriculture and limited capabilities. The document discusses the relationship between climate change and sustainable development, noting they are interconnected issues. It examines how factors like agriculture, human population, energy, poverty, and food insecurity relate to sustainable development and are impacted by climate change. The literature review discusses several sources that also explore the linkages between climate change and sustainable development and sustainable development's role in mitigating climate change impacts.
The document discusses how overpopulation is negatively impacting the environment in several ways:
1) Growing human populations are putting unsustainable pressure on ecosystems and natural resources.
2) Urban population growth drives environmental degradation as forests are cleared to build cities and agricultural lands.
3) Rising populations increase pollution, climate change, and demand for resources like water and arable land.
4) If population growth continues unchecked, shortages of resources could occur with serious environmental and economic consequences.
Environmental Security - National Defense & The Environmentjgordes
The document discusses connecting climate change to national security in order to garner more support for addressing it. It argues that climate change endangers security by increasing risks of conflicts over issues like food and water scarcity. Linking climate change and security policies could help enlist more support and motivate large-scale progress in renewable energy, which benefits both climate change mitigation and security.
A Right to a Decent Environment: Are Human Rights Sustainable?sebhancock
This document discusses the argument that recognizing a human right to a decent environment could help guide policy towards sustainability. It notes that current consumption and production threaten the environment we depend on. While international cooperation on climate change has faced obstacles, recognizing environmental rights may alter how we interact with nature and accommodate natural ethics. However, the rights framework would need to be reconstructed to extend rights to the natural world for this approach to be effective.
Population growth and sustainable land management in indiaAlexander Decker
This document discusses population growth, sustainable land management, and their relationship in India. It notes that many developing countries like India face problems of high population growth creating issues like poverty, food crises, and land degradation, while resources like land are limited. Sustainable land management is necessary to ensure land productivity and quality for current and future generations. The concept of sustainable land management aims to use renewable land resources like soil, water, and plants in a way that protects long-term productivity while allowing for economic and social benefits.
The document outlines 9 major challenges facing the world: 1) climate change, 2) environmental degradation, 3) biodiversity loss, 4) pollution and waste, 5) fresh water scarcity, 6) extreme poverty, 7) inequality, 8) food and nutrition insecurity, and 9) disease and health risks. Each challenge is described in terms of its impacts and raises important questions about how we can address and mitigate the issues. Key problems include warming temperatures affecting habitats and agriculture, ecosystem degradation, high species extinction rates, pollution's health impacts, growing water stress, ongoing poverty, rising inequality, need to boost food production, and unequal access to healthcare.
This document discusses the links between climate change and conflict based on a report by the Environmental Justice Foundation. It finds that climate change will be an increasingly important factor contributing to conflicts, acting as a threat multiplier in situations with existing stressors. Climate change impacts resource scarcity, human migration patterns, and state fragility. One of the most pronounced links is between climate change and access to natural resources, which may exacerbate tensions. Freshwater scarcity is also a significant factor driving political tensions between states. Climate change also presents challenges related to human migration and displacement. Fragile and post-conflict states are particularly susceptible to impacts of climate change. Urgent global action is needed to address climate change and prevent related conflicts.
Human population growth and increased affluence are placing major stresses on the environment and society's limited resources. Technology and engineering will be central to monitoring and addressing these problems, as well as creating sustainable solutions. However, predicting the future remains difficult due to uncertainties. The next 25-50 years will be decisive for mitigating stresses on the planet.
This document provides a summary of the issue of climate refugees and efforts to address sustainability concerns related to climate change migration. It discusses how climate change is intensifying natural disasters and environmental conditions, forcing people to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. This is creating a growing population of climate refugees around the world. The document outlines the impacts on migrants, host communities, and governments. It also discusses some current efforts by organizations like the UNHCR to help refugees. However, more comprehensive political and environmental solutions are still needed to fully address the root causes and humanitarian impacts of climate change migration.
The document discusses several major current environmental problems including pollution, global warming, overpopulation, natural resource depletion, waste disposal, climate change, loss of biodiversity, deforestation, ocean acidification, ozone layer depletion, acid rain, water pollution, urban sprawl, public health issues, and genetic engineering. It notes that these issues require urgent attention to avoid future environmental disasters and that individual and community awareness and action can help address some of these problems.
This document provides an overview of climate change and global warming for the American public. It explains that climate is measured over centuries rather than days or years, and that human activity is largely responsible for unprecedented warming. Even a few degrees of temperature rise could have major negative consequences like more frequent heat waves, droughts, wildfires, spread of diseases, violent storms, and rising sea levels that inundate coastal areas. The document discusses debates around these issues and seeks to provide factual information to address public confusion around the science of climate change.
1. Rapid population growth in India is threatening the environment through expansion of agriculture, uncontrolled urbanization and industrialization, and destruction of natural habitats.
2. Growing population puts pressure on land and resources, leading to issues like land degradation, soil erosion, deforestation, and pollution of water and air.
3. Population growth contributes to environmental degradation by increasing demand for food, housing, energy, and other resources, intensifying land use and degrading forests and land. Rising consumption also increases pollution and stresses ecosystems.
The document discusses major global challenges related to sustainability, including climate change, sustainable development, poverty, inequality, food and water scarcity, and more. It provides details on the impacts of climate change on human health and the challenges of ensuring sustainable water and food/agriculture. The speaker argues that with accelerating issues threatening the planet, there is a growing need for sustainable alternatives to address these interconnected problems facing humanity.
POWER OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND POTENTIAL CONFLICTS IN GLOBALIZED WORLDPrashant Mehta
Climate change poses a threat to humanity and has the potential to increase conflicts globally. While some international cooperation on climate change exists, efforts at summits like Copenhagen in 2009 have proven divisive. Scientific research shows that greenhouse gas levels are rising to unprecedented and potentially irreversible levels, increasing global temperatures and fatal consequences. As developing countries like India and China industrialize, maintaining economic growth while addressing climate change will be challenging. Climate change impacts like food and water insecurity could exacerbate environmental stresses and contribute to migration, natural disasters, domestic instability, and conflicts between states if left unaddressed. Large-scale mitigation and adaptation efforts are needed to reduce environmental stresses and prevent future climate-related conflicts.
This document provides information on various topics related to sustainable development, including population growth, conservation of natural resources, and urban sprawl. It discusses strategies for achieving sustainable development through environmental education and conservation of resources to address over-exploitation. The document also outlines threats to sustainability such as energy depletion, climate change, and ecological collapse if population continues to rise rapidly and resources are not managed properly.
Man-made environmental problems stem from overuse of natural resources due to open access issues. Environmental problems are complex as they create distortions and inequalities that can lead to conflicts. On Easter Island, overpopulation led to deforestation of palm trees, a crucial resource. The slow growth rate of palm trees meant the population outstripped the environment's ability to recover, leading to soil erosion, agricultural and fishing declines, societal collapse, and a much smaller population by the time Europeans arrived. The Easter Island case illustrates the risks of an institutional failure to effectively respond to environmental pressures from overpopulation and overuse of resources.
pursuing sustainable planetary prosperity chapter 18 US-China 2022Michael P Totten
China and the U.S. are the two largest consuming nations, their combined gross do- mestic products (GDPs) comprising one third of global GDP. The two nations consume one quarter of world natural gas and one third of world oil production, and produce nearly two thirds of world coal. The two nations are also the planet’s largest CO2 emitters, jointly releasing nearly half of the world total.
Business-as-usual scenarios are insufficient to address the acute sustainability challenges that both nations – as well as the community of nations
– are facing. However, collaboration in pursuing solutions through unprecedented statesmanship, leadership and technological advances will simultaneously provide national and global sustainability solutions.
Joint initiatives are in both of our nations’ enlightened self interest – from immediate and sustained economic and environmental gains to long-term well being and prosperity of our peoples – and will make a major, essential contribution to finding global solutions to the devastating risks facing hu- manity and the biosphere.
Climate change is currently threatening the livelihoods of millions of people by altering the natural and physical
assets they rely on. The challenge for adaptation technologies is to deal with the potential for future
changes whilst being resilient to climate variability. Uncertainty about how climate change will manifest in a precise location requires cautions when selecting a
technological solution to avoid locking a community to an unsuitable technology.
Israel is recognized as being at the forefront of high-tech innovation, backed by a highly educated and creative
workforce and a sound infrastructure. The Israeli industry is always breaching for newer and innovative technologies.
Today Israel has about 350 cleantech companies and they are developing and growing constantly. In the following publication a review of the different adaptation technologies offered by Israeli industry will be outlined
by sectors and numerous subsectors.
This document discusses a senior capstone project about global warming. It covers three main topics: science competency, cross-cultural competency, and ethical reflection. For science competency, it examines the fundamental science behind global warming, its effects on the environment and humans. For cross-cultural competency, it discusses environmental justice, discrimination regarding survival for those without shelter. For ethics, it considers the demographics and socio-cultural dynamics of impoverished humans without shelter.
The document discusses environmental degradation as a result of globalization, highlighting issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and threats to indigenous cultures in Egypt. As 95% of Egyptians live along the River Nile, water scarcity is a major problem exacerbated by population growth, climate change, and use of water for agriculture. Environmental degradation has occurred through pollution, overuse of resources, and destruction of natural habitats, disrupting ecosystems and threatening some indigenous ways of life.
Problem Statement 1
Problem Statement
Alicia Harris
Julia Intawiwat
English 215
11/05/2017
Climate Change and Destruction of Natural Resources
Indeed, a problem exists in the world, and it is posing a great threat to human life. Natural resources are down by at least 60% and what is left is also under attack, the climatic conditions are worsening by the day. It is a problem that is universal and affecting every part of the world. Climate change refers to the global or regional climate patterns which changed in the mid and late 20th century due to various factors such as increased amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere produced largely by use of fossil fuels (Costanza 36). Climate change is causing more harm than good from farming to other business that depends on natural resources for their establishment, these funds are being destroyed by human beings for personal gains without caring about the adverse effects the destruction has on the universe.
History, overview, and Status
Climate change was experienced in the late 20th century, and it has grown tremendously ever since. The climate patterns currently are unpredictable, and no one can rely on what they thought were the patterns previously. Climate change is a problem that is directly affecting natural resources where currently trees bud in the spring, lakes freeze and thaw while extreme events that affect large water masses are caused by changing temperatures and precipitations (Le Billon 25). Some animal species have died and are become distinct due to the problem while others are migrating to a new location in search of food sources and breeding zones. It has been reported that cases of diseases and pests outbreak in the forests have increased in the 21st century compared to years ago. Effects are more than normal since every sector is affected including the fish and aquatic life, wildlife, wetlands, drylands as well, parks and other reserved areas, water bodies and plants among others.
Economic Problems Invited by Climatic Changes
The international community has tried a lot to deal constructively with the problem of countering climate change over the past two decades. Climate change is the preeminent global crisis of our time, and through various measures and policies have been put in place, minimal positive growth is recorded. With the many articles, comprehensive reviews, and intensive research, a conclusion drawn from them is that the costs and benefits of mitigating climate change in the next five decades are uncertain (Le Billon 64). So far a lot of money has been spent by the government and non-governmental organizations to save up the world from issues to brought about by climate chang.
Climate change in context of sustainable developmentsajid ali
Climate change poses threats to global food production, ecosystems, and human settlements. Developing countries are especially vulnerable due to their dependence on agriculture and limited capabilities. The document discusses the relationship between climate change and sustainable development, noting they are interconnected issues. It examines how factors like agriculture, human population, energy, poverty, and food insecurity relate to sustainable development and are impacted by climate change. The literature review discusses several sources that also explore the linkages between climate change and sustainable development and sustainable development's role in mitigating climate change impacts.
Overpopulation is negatively impacting the environment in several ways. As the population increases, more land and resources are needed to support it, leading to habitat destruction and loss of wildlife. There is also more pollution produced as population growth outpaces the planet's ability to provide clean air and water. If population continues to rise at its current rate, the demand on resources will exceed the capacity of the Earth to supply them.
The document summarizes an essay about environmental security. It discusses how the 2012 drought in the Midwest affected crops and global populations. It questions whether this was due to natural causes or human impacts on the environment. The concept of environmental security considers the effects of environmental issues within and between countries. It also discusses how climate change caused the USDA to update its plant hardiness zone map in 2012, showing zones had shifted northward. This expansion of viable crop zones could financially benefit large agriculture companies but hurt small, independent farmers.
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Assignment 1The Global Environment - An Emerging World View
Reading Assignment:
Article 2 “Global Warming Battlefields: How climate Change Threatens Security?” on pages 16-22 in the Annual Editions (11/12) textbook.
As you read, consider the following discussion points. Try to reconcile the "development" with the "sustainable" in the industry and communities. Development with capable of being continued with minimal long-term effect on the environment.Best way know to help the poor today; "economic growth" has to be handled with care otherwise it may end up with a degraded and devastated natural environment.Every generation should leave water, air, and soil resources as pure and unpolluted as when it came on earth!Win-win strategies for environmental issues, would it be possible?To help both economy and environment, environmentally harmful subsidies need to be reconsidered. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature "largest conservation group", Greens and businesses do not have the same objective but they can find common ground!2002 UN World Summit on sustainable development in South Africa - Johannesburg? Did it contribute any useful actions and policies?Kyoto Protocol (1997, Japan) a UN treaty on climate change/global warming to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions 5% below of 1990 levels by 2012; what was the bitter test in many mouths in Kyoto?Two areas where concerns about human health and environmental overlap: improving access for the poor to cleanser energy and safe drinking water!India’s leader Mahatma Gandhi’s testimonial about industrial revolution in Asia? "God forbid that India should ever take to industrialization after the manner of the west…It took UK half of the resources of the plant to achieve their prosperity, so how many planets will a country like India require?". Economic growth comparison of China versus India.
Overview:
This lesson will illustrate increasing global perspective on environmental problems and the degree to which their solutions must be linked to political, economical, and social problems and solutions.
The societal effects of climate change are not limited to humanitarian disasters. It is likely that there will be an increase in ethnic conflict, insurgencies, and civil violence whenever climate change negatively affects supplies of vital resources.
Diminished rainfall and river flow, rising sea level, and more frequent and severe storms will cripple the ability of underdeveloped societies to meet even basic sustainability levels.
Topics Covered:
Climate Change
The Hardest Hits
On water scarcity
On food availability
On coastal inundation
Resources Wars
Watching the River Flow
The Mogadishu Effect
Migratory Conflicts
Looking Ahead
Instructor's Comments:
"Th.
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The document discusses the urgent need for a new global deal for nature and people to address the decline in biodiversity and health of the planet. It notes that the Living Planet Index has shown a 60% decline in wildlife populations in just over 40 years, and that climate change is having effects at the ecosystem, species, and genetic levels. The key drivers of biodiversity decline remain overexploitation and agriculture, though threats also include invasive species, pollution, disturbance and climate change. A new global deal is needed to transition to a carbon-neutral society and halt and reverse nature loss through green finance, clean energy and sustainable food production.
The Oxford lexicon characterizes Environment as the environment or conditions in which a man, creature or plant lives or works . The earth has happened to extraordinary worry in the previous decade. Ecological topics, for example, change in atmosphere, loss of biodiversity, contamination, an Earth wide temperature boost, and maintainable improvement, etc, have possessed a noteworthy space in the media channels and the administration strategies. We have been contaminating our planet, draining its assets, and amassing a huge amount of non biodegradable waste. Now of time, although private enterprise and industrialization have made the most astounding material ways of life, yet the procedure has exhausted the nature of living as it has, in the meantime expanded the rate at which we dirty, drain, and make squander. As previous Vice President Al Gore deduced in his book Earth to be determined, Human development is currently the prevailing reason for change in the worldwide condition. The natural outcomes of worldwide environmental change have turned out to be increasingly evident and of more noteworthy open concern. Endeavours to spare the earth can be followed back to as ahead of schedule as the 1900s yet not until the beginning of 21st century. Individuals attempted endeavors to work overall and battle condition exhaustion. Whats more, for a similar reason, Environmentalism has advanced as a progressively concrete and required idea in the pop culture. Little yet noteworthy endeavors have been taken to spare our condition. Mr. Himanshu Sharma | Mr. Rahul Jai Singh | Ms. Palak Sharma ""Environmentalism in Popular Culture"" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-4 , June 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd23693.pdf
Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/other-scientific-research-area/enviormental-science/23693/environmentalism-in-popular-culture/mr-himanshu-sharma
Running Head: CLIMATE CHANGE 1
CLIMATE CHANGE 8
Climate Change
Heather Hale
Rasmussen College
Author Note
This paper is being submitted on March 20, 2016, for James Marinello’s G328/EVR3410 Human Uses of the Environment course.
Climate change is amongst the major environmental controversies there are. Several nations have addressed it, and most of them have failed. Climate change has been brought about by increased over pollution activities of people. However, this being amongst the minor causes, there are other to be taken care of. The United Nations has tried applying stringent measures to curb this, but it has shown no results. However, our population continues to increase day by day thus being a key contributing factor to climate change. From studies conducted before this, climate change can only be decreased by eradicating all the other controversies that exist. Comment by James Marinello: Out of all the major environmental controversies, climate change is one of the most discussed and debated in all forums. Comment by James Marinello: Grammar a little choppy. Comment by James Marinello: You need to clarify this further. I do not understand what you are trying to say.
This controversy has become a threat to many governments since it is more than they can handle. The carrying capacity of a nation is always crucial to the government, and when a certain limit is broken, there are some tougher economic times to be expected. Climate change leads not only to the economic crisis, but it also plays a significant role in environmental degradation and most of all, human’s nature degradation. The reason as to why there is pollution can be all rooted back to overpopulation. So does unemployment, lack of enough resources, deforestation, amongst others. Also, unless there are stricter and faster measures to deal with this, the future is also at risk. Comment by James Marinello: Missing citations?
According to the study conducted, climate change mostly refers to the overall relationship between the human species and the environment or nature (EDF, 2014). There are many reasons as to why climate change has come to be as discussed earlier. Since most of the earth are subdivided into nations, the controversy becomes more complicated. That is because each government has to come up with their means on which to eradicate or even reduce the currents problems they are facing. Some will work while some will not, therefore, making the planet un-even. This is what brings out risks of starvation, droughts of which are often claimed to be acts of nature. Comment by James Marinello: I don’t understand what you are trying to say.
Organizations like NASA are on the forefront to ensure that climate change does not end up destroying the whole world. There are many outcomes that can be achieved by a change in the climate such as droughts therefore starvation. A st ...
Climate change and overpopulation worsen each other as climate change intensifies overpopulation and more people impacts climate change. The UN predicts global population will hit 10 billion by 2050. As population increases, human impact on the environment grows through consumption, land and resource use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation impacts biodiversity both directly and indirectly through habitat loss and temperature rise. How species will cope with future habitat shifts from climate change is uncertain and may lead to more extinctions. Manipulating the I=PAT equation of human impact may help address the interconnected problems of population growth, consumption, technology, and their effects on climate change and biodiversity loss.
Similar to Designing a Better Future by Denise Hargreaves (12)
3. Contents
Page
Introduction 4-5
Chapter 1
The Threats Facing Humans And The Planet6 - 12
Chapter 2
Possible Causes 13 -19
Chapter 3
Solutions 20 - 24
Chapter 4
Biomimicry Case Studies 25 - 32
Conclusion 33
Bibliography 34 - 36
4. Introduction
The purpose of this dissertation is not to establish whether climate change is real, as the
majority of the world wide scientists have already accepted that. Instead I would like to
discuss and establish where the problems may arise. The on-going and political debate about
this topic has found wide consensus about aspects of climate change.
The changes in the climate that have come about over the last few centuries have significant
implications for our lives; for the generations to come and for ecosystems which all humans
depend.
As a vigilant person in the ever changing world it is noticed that many professions are
currently struggling. The discoveries that have been made and then developed in past
centuries now seen out-dated in many parts of the industrialist world. Currently being
witnessed around the world is the short term political and economic benefits that have
overshadowed the long term environmental factors. This turbulence is accompanied with
wars, sweeping political movements and religious tumult that seems to be out of control.
What could possibly contributes to bringing these problems to crisis magnitudes? Could it be
the fact that we operate in a global economy which is dependent on the instant movement of
capital?
Changes are taking place like never before regard the speed of growth in the human
population, technology and in scientific discovery are overwhelming. Can humans solve the
5. issues today and if so how will they be tackled? The mentality of going about ones business
as usual while the more important issues are rarely discussed could actually raise the question
“are todays policies fit for a democracy?” (Szenasy, 2010).
6. The Threats Facing Humans and the Planet
Climate change is the most important issue of the 21st
century. The global economy, and
civilisation itself, may collapse unless greenhouse gas emissions are controlled. Already
global warming touches every part of the planet and people everywhere are affected in their
lives. (Brown, P. 2006:Page13)
This seems to be a major topic of discussion (discussion being the operative word). What are
the issues that people and governments face if climate change is real? Many scientists from
around the world believe that time is short in regards to preventing irreversible climate
change. Brown states that there is as little as fifteen years to do something about this
problem.(Brown,2006,p13)
Climate change is affecting billions of people around the world. When observing the news
and reading about this topic, the developing countries have been dependant on agriculture to
make a living but sadly many go hungry due to the unpredictable weather patterns being the
cause of failing crops. Houghton (2004, p167) raised a serious issue when discussing the
disparity between developed and developing countries. He claims the less fortunate
developing countries face increasing problems and consequences of declining food
availability in addition to the increasing populations. This situation has raised the problem of
employment. With the changing climate and families unable to sustain themselves the
agricultural shifts see that many have had no choice but to migrate to places that there may be
7. a possibility of finding work in agriculture. Houghton expects to see an even higher number
of environmental refugees due to climate change. (ibid)
“Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s need, but not every man’s greed.”
Mahatma Gandhi
There has been a huge rise in the people that are affected by the floods around the world in
recent years. This is one of the effects of global warming but there are still many that
consider the debate to be over exaggerated. Chancellor Nigel Lawson commented on the
series of ‘Frozen Planet saying that Sir Richard Attenborough was an alarmist who was
without objectivity. Speaking to the Guardian, Attenborough opposed the statement when he
said “I am very, very cautious about making sensationalist claims about how disastrous
continuing climate change will be. The most extreme and sensationalist claim I make, is that
a rising sea level that keeps rising – and it looks as though it could well do – will flood some
of the greatest cities in the world, including London. It is an accurate statement and not an
exaggerated one.” (Rajesh M,2012,online)
The majority of these people affected by floods also live in the areas more prone to extreme
weather conditions due to our earths temperature rising.(climatechangechallenge,2012,online)
They experience the flooding, cyclones as well as the long periods of droughts that all
contributes to their vulnerability and ability to deal with life’s problems. Many of these
factors also lead to a deterioration of ones health. “Human health is dependent on a good
environment” states Houghton (p176).
8. It is thought that diseases such as diarrhoea kill around 11 million children a year along with
the millions who also die due to AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis
(practicalaction.org,2011,online). With the spread of these diseases people are becoming
more vulnerable than ever before. There has been progress made in the past with charities
such as Live Aid that that have raised millions upon millions of pounds to help with the
causes. Unfortunately these great efforts of many have been severely affected with the
increase of floods and droughts that have considerably impacted from climate change. This
sadly has exacerbated the outbreaks of Diarrhoea and Cholera, associated with dirty water
and warmer temperatures. Houghton makes the point “the greater likelihood of extremes of
climate, such as droughts and floods, will also bring greater risks to health from increased
malnutrition and from a prevalence of conditions more likely to lead to the spread of
diseases”.(Houghton.J, 2006,p.176)
There is also the issue of the increased human activity which is expected to continue to grow.
When considering early human activities with todays contrast, the initial impact on the
surrounding environment was very little. The primary search for a place of safety was the
main agenda for primitive humans. The activities of gathering plants for food, hunting
animals and using small amounts of local materials that were available to build a shelter for
protection were of main concern. Wood was used for the fuel to provide warmth and energy
for cooking. (Furness-smith,2004)p162
9. With the increased understanding from scientists of why changes in the climate are
happening many have invested great effort into the studies of human behaviour. The changes
in the activities of humans over the past centuries with the industrial revolution and in
emissions of greenhouse gases have caused earth’s temperature to rise. The 21st
century is
now seeing a drastic contrast regards the scale of activities being carrying out. Furness-Smith
acknowledges that human activities are triggering what will lead to irreversible changes to
the earth and the demands that are associated with an increasing population and technological
way of life. (p.162)
To add to the growing list of threats facing the future is the deforestation of many of the
wooded areas on the planet. Humans have for thousands of years cut down trees in forests to
allow for their crops to grow and animals to graze. In Britain, if it was not for the
intervention of man the majority of the landscape would have been dominated by woodland.
Now however the remaining wooded area is only about 10 %. (Furness-Smith M,2004) It was
the latter half of the 19th
century that saw a huge increase in the expansion of agriculture
leading to a large-scale deforestation. Furness-Smith suggests that about one fifth of all
tropical rain forests was eradicated during the period from 1960-1990, then from 1990 an
area the size of England disappears each year from the tropical rain forests.(ibid)
The tropical forests are a valuable resource important for maintaining the climate of these
regions. It is estimated they contain a possible half of all the earth’s biological species, yet
Houghton suggests that only about half of the mature tropical forests that existed a few
hundred years ago still stand.(Houghton.J,2004) Al Gore in his book Earth in Balance
comments on how important these areas are in maintaining a balance in the environment, he
10. goes on to say that only a small area of tropical forest possesses an ecosystem that contains
thousands of plant and animal species. Each of these thrives on its own ecological niche in
close balance with others.(ibid)
In Pakistan there are grave concerns regards this matter also. The government there accept
that the loss of tree cover has led to serious problems with the degradational costs raising
each year. The Minister of Environment ‘Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi’ showed his deep
concerns and apprehension of a time when it may not be possible to manage such costs. Is it
only the costs that are of a concern to the minister of environment or the living conditions his
people have to contend with since such terrible floods in 2010? (Gronewold.N,2010,Online)
A water and environmental engineer with an extensive knowledge of his countries water
infrastructure says “I think after terrorism, the biggest threat we have is the environmental
decay”. He is highly concerned with the massive deforestation that has left Pakistan more
vulnerable. (ibid) This is only one of the countries that is suffering with the continuous down-
pores and infrastructures at the point of collapse. Today mankind are increasingly witnessing
the same reports around the world.
Another issue is that of endangered species. With current trends of overfishing, studies have
shown that it is putting marine life at threat of extinction to many species. A study of the
world’s oceans showed that fish, sharks, whales and other species face this danger unless
there are swift changes.
11. In contrast Chancellor Nigel Lawson commented on the series of ‘Frozen Planet’ saying that
Sir Richard Attenborough was an alarmist who was without objectivity. Speaking to the
Guardian, Attenborough opposed the statement “I am very, very cautious about making
sensationalist claims about how disastrous continuing climate change will be. The most
extreme and sensationalist claim I make, is that a rising sea level that keeps rising – and it
looks as though it could well do – will flood some of the greatest cities in the world,
including London. It is an accurate statement and not an exaggerated one”. [Rajesh M,
2012,online]
Some people believe that all the disasters that seem to be increasing are actually a
punishment from God and that he is unleashing his wrath with landslides, typhoons and other
disasters. “I think it is tembatsu (devine punishment), although I feel sorry for disaster
victims”, said a leading Japanese Politician after the country was hit by a 9.0-magnitude
earthquake and a tsunami in March 2011. (Watchtower, 2011) A catholic priest declared “
God wants to awaken our deadened and indifferent conscience” when 79 people died in a
stampede in Manilla, Phillipines. (ibid)
This belief that God will bring a disaster to punish them is not a new thought. In 1755 there
was an earthquake, a fire and a tsunami that hit Portugal. A well know philosopher Voltaire
queried “Was then more vice in fallen Lisbon found, than Paris, where voluptuous joys
abound?”(The Watchtower,2011,p.4)
12. The centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters, in Belgium reported that there
were 373 disasters in the year 2010 alone and as a result of this at least 296,000 died. (The
watchtower, 2011,p.4) The BBC News reported a French village that had an influx of
apocalypse believers who say that the world will end on 21 December 2012.(The
watchtower,2011,p.10)
If people are to call the disasters an act of God what did the bible say about such matters?
There are prophecies in the bible regarding “the conclusion of the system of things” in
Matthew 24:3, where Jesus’ followers asked when God’s time to end suffering was near.
Bible students compare the prophecies in Matthew 24:7 with conditions and attitudes
prevalent today as that talk about global war, famine, disease and ruining the earth. At
Revelation 21:4 “(God) will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more,
neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed
away.” – (The Bible, Revelation 21:4) A prophecy still to be fulfilled.
Possible Causes
Changes like never before in the speed of the growth in the human population, technology
and in scientific discovery are overwhelming. According to many scientists the global
13. temperature may be approaching a tipping-point, that delicate threshold where a slight rise in
temperature may cause a dramatic change in the environment. Some of the factors that
scientists believe lead to these changes are the increased human activity beginning with the
industrial revolution and the subsequent increase in the use of fossil fuels such as coal and
oil. The burning of billions of tons along with the destroying of forests through slash and
burn techniques has been a major cause argued Bunyard [1999,p.14].
If scientists are correct in there view of the climate warming then the planet has only just
began to experience the effects. To address some of these problems world leaders came
together to discuss the actions that need to be taken.
“The world must come together to confront climate change. There is little scientific
dispute that if we do nothing, we will face more drought, famine and mass
displacement that will fuel more conflict for decades”.(Awake,2011,p.12)
U.S. President Barack Obama
Despite such a huge amount of scientific evidence that the climate is changing there are a
small number of sceptics who say it is simply not happening or if it is then humans are not
the causes of such changes. The book published by Bjorn Lomborg (Cambridge University
Press,2001) ‘The Skeptical Environmentalist’ angered many and caused international
controversy tells the Scientific American Magazine. The Danish political scientist argued in
his book that the claims made by environmentalists are simply exaggerated about all the
pressing issues raised today with global warming are without support from an analysis of the
environmental data.
14. The mainstream scientists were angered by Lomborgs remarks and swiftly responded saying
his analysis was full of errors with his data only including an insufficient amount of literature
that had a biased view and limited understanding of science.
Most are aware that fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas supply most of the energy
that is needed in modern society yet it is the demand from people who need fuel to power
their cars and energy for electricity in homes and industries that is a major factor that is
contributing to climate change. Also the demands for furniture and household appliances,
computers and televisions, clothes and carpets (to name but a few) are using energy in the
production of these goods and then transported all around the world to keep up with the
demands of wanting the latest gadgets and comforts. This equates to more carbon emissions
being released into earth’s atmosphere. Are humans going to give up their modern way of life
and the throw away culture that is currently being witnessed to help prevent further global
warming?
Agriculture has also been recognised as being a major contributor to climate change, through
the production and release of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous
oxide. Our forests play an important part in our eco-system that has taken billions of years to
evolve. Trees help absorb almost 20% of man made emissions according to
[climatechangechallenge.org]. By cutting down more trees this will allow for more co2 build
up in the atmosphere and a detrimental effect on the emissions if the rain forests are being cut
down faster than they can be replaced. Furthermore often these forests have been cut down
to make way for agriculture and industry or housing developments which in turn will produce
even more CO2.(ibid)
15. Despite the importance of the issues surrounding the global environment, politicians have
many other issues also to contend with. Developed countries are interested in maintaining
their living standards which means being in employment and growing the economy. Yet the
developing countries are struggling to contend with the large increases in population and their
basic survival with low employment and low wages they still are looking for the rapid
industrial development. Houghton states that a balance needs to be struck between the
provision of necessary resources for development and the long-term need to preserve the
environment [2004,p.225].
The general view of politicians in Nuuk ‘Greenland’ consider the Global Warming issues will
lesson the hardships of local people by opening up economic opportunities. Despite the
popularity of Greenpeace lobbying for good causes they seem to be rather the opposite in this
part of the world with the islanders more focused on the prospect of an Arctic oil rush after
the discovery of traces of gas by the British Exploration company ‘Cairn Energy’.
Currently Greenland is financially dependent on Denmark but if the traces prove to be
accurate as to the amount of reserves below the arctic seabed then in time it could produce
considerable wealth to the people there. It is believed that this region could be worth up to
$7tn. For a country who have struggled with daily life in the freezing temperatures in winter
that can drop to as low as -70c it gives the residents good reason to celebrate. The
government have all the big oil companies queueing up in the hope of being granted an
exploration licence. (Guardian, 2010,online)
16. Environmentalists regard this discovery of the gas and oil reserves as a potential disaster
waiting to happen like the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. If plans go ahead to drill while the
glaciers and icebergs around continue to melt as a direct result of global warming this will
only be exacerbated should the Arctic be allowed to give up its reserves. A local singer when
asked about the implications of any major find in Greenland was lacking excitement. "I guess
what I would like to see is the government tread very carefully. I am worried they are rushing
ahead too quickly [with oil licensing]," she says."Most people here – possibly 80% – think
this drilling can only be good for Greenland, but we have already seen the traditional ways
of doing things being eroded, and people herded into [modern town-housing] blocks." Nive
Nielsen
[Guardian, Terry Macalister,13 September 2010,online]
While a 44-year-old shop assistant is more positive about the prospect. "We have always
believed there was oil and gas off this island; we've been waiting for something like this to
happen for decades. I hope it will provide income for Greenland, so we can finance our way
to becoming a more independent nation." Kenni Rende [ibid]
Governments around the world are torn as to which way they turn with so many important
issues to consider. The British Government saw that the Conservative Party at the time of
campaigning before being elected that they had promised to cancel a third runway at
Heathrow and dismiss any plans to expand Gatwick and Stansted, David Cameron’s slogan
was “vote blue to go green”. This was to help with the global issues surrounding climate
change. The election promise was welcomed with delight however the agenda may have
17. cooled off for the time being with the government now changing its current course with
economic growth taking priority over environmental issues. [Guardian,2011,online]
While fossil fuels cause global warming the governments continue to give a great deal of
support to such power sources. Meanwhile the environmentally beneficial renewable sources
attract political scrutiny and the 500% greater subsides given to oil, gas and coal rarely seem
get a mention.[ibid]
December 2011 saw the climate summit in Durban, South Africa. A key issue business
survey found that the bottom of European company concerns was global warming compared
with it taking second place only the year previous. This may well have been effected by the
imminent concerns caused by the European debt crisis in Europe; the earthquake and nuclear
crisis in Japan, the Arab uprisings, competition to secure affordable natural resources and
concerns about rising poverty and inequality of key issues on the agenda.
Despite the climate being the least concern among businesses it was still considered a
successful breakthrough with a deal being made by the EU’s climate change negotiator
Connie Hedegaard. China, the U.S and India agreed to reduce their emissions for the first
time. (Independent,2011,online). Some may raise the point that without any specific targets
for cuts in emissions this agreement will have little impact on how businesses behave.
18. Craig Rosebraugh’s new documentary ‘Greedy Lying Bastards’ highlights the influence
(some comment deceit and corruption) of the fossil fuel industry. In a sneak peak – Pieter
Tans, senior scientist (NOAA) comments how a lot of skeptics are not behaving as skeptics
but as lawyers. He states that as a scientist you find out how the world really works and its
not whether you or someone else wants to win an argument (although it may appear that way)
but the goal is always to get the truth. He continues to say that it is scientifically considered
unethical if you present a case in which one aspect is greatly highlighted and you deliberately
remove or don’t talk about all the evidence that seems to contradict your case. He adds as a
scientist you are not really allowed to do this and it is not good for your reputation. Finally he
ends saying this is the reason the skeptics do not behave like scientists but lawyers by
pretending to engage in a scientific argument. (Leo Hickman,2012,online)
In the past new technologies were developed to solve problems as they arose. Humans have
been very effective at doing this however in the case of global warming and the concerns
about the future, the damage has already been done. Human activities have caused
environmental problems and are still doing so. (Houghton,2004) Are the issues going to be
managable for people to deal with today and in the furture ?
19. Solutions
With all the uncertainties of the true impact of Global Warming impacts a key idea is that of
Sustainable Developments. There have been some significant movements over the years that
have shifted political agenda. Many politicians have expressed their concerns and
responsibility for the environment.
‘We have a full repairing lease on the earth. With the work of the IPCC, we can now say we
have the surveyors report, and it shows there are faults and that the repair work needs to
start without delay. The problem does not lie in the future, they are here and now; and it is
our children and grandchildren, who are already growing up, who will be affected.’
20. Margaret Thatcher (Houghton,J,2003,p.225)
There were past design efforts that were ahead of their time. The inventor of the first diesel
engine Dr Rudolf Diesel was trying to promote the same as today, one hundred years on. He
invented the first diesel engine which ran on a variety of different fuels. This was the same
principle as the bio-fuels when he demonstrated how a vehicle could run on peanut oil yet
less harmful than fossil fuels and non-toxic and totally bio-degradable. (Doxford Engine
Friends Association, 2012,online) Strangly he disappeared in 1913.
The green technologies that are now available are becoming a favoured purchase by some.
Figures published showed that in April 2011 there was a surge in solar panel installations on
UK household roofs as largely homeowners took advantage of government subsides, the
Guardian reported. The attraction of making nearly £1000 a year led to a solar gold rush with
the introduction of feed in tariffs that repay for generating green energy.
Published in a leading science journal was the new microbe research which is said to be a
technological breakthrough. Scientists have genetically engineered a low carbon fuel from
algae. This ancient way of farming seaweed that has been around for a thousand years would
be a solution to one of the crisis’ faced in finding a replacement for fossil fuels. It grows at a
much faster rate to normal plants – ten times faster and does not require any type of fertiliser.
There are still challenges in making the technology commercially viable but “the potential is
certainly there , not least because most of the earth is covered in water” Graziano said “If
21. they can get the scale up and the costs down, it has huge potential.” (Carrington.D,2012,
online)
It is important to recognise also that the balance and close relationship between humans and
the world is vital. Rachel Carson in her book Silent Spring comments on the important part
humans play in the global eco-system. (Houghton.J,2004) Carson states that it would be fair
to say that each generation should leave the earth in a better state than they found it in or at
least as good a state. (ibid)
At the United Nations conference on the environment and development held at Rio de Janeiro
in Brazil in June 1992 the link between humans and the harmonious relationship to nature
was high on the topic for discussions, with it being said that ‘human beings are at the centre
of concerns for sustainable development and all being entitled to a healthy and productive
life in harmony with nature’. (Houghton.J,2004,p.198) So in the past new technologies were
developed to solve problems and there now is tremendous potential to develop with science
and new technologies in looking after the earth. The future challenges such as pollution,
dwindling natural resource and climate change should be faced head on. With education and
further research both industry and governments can play the central role in building a better
future. The prospects for such green technologies that will mean for a healthier planet and a
healthier way of life can also grow the businesses of the future. They just need to be
implemented in a careful, responsible and balanced way for future generations.
22. Until recently there has been little attention given to biofuels, however with pressure from
governments around the world due to the environmental impact that fossil fuels have on the
planet and the ever dwindling resources that humans have become dependent on we are
seeing car manufacturers beginning to invest in the research for mainstream vehicles.
Currently there are many varieties and not all are said to be environmentally viable so more
research is needed in finding the best alternatives for petrol and diesel or aircraft fuel.
Some green campaigners have had goals in the introduction of hydrogen cars with it
eventually allowing fuel to be generated from renewable energy. Lotus and Intelligent
Energy have been working to develop a car and have it ready for use for the Olympics 2012.
The car will look and drive just like a London black cab but it will actually have some cutting
edge technology under the bonnet. Like an electric car it will not produce any emissions but
will have the edge over the electric cars as it will only take a few minutes to fill the tank.
(Jha.A,2012,online)
Houghton suggests that a central component of a sustainable future is the fuel cell that has
high efficiency (fifty to eighty per cent) in converting hydrogen and oxygen into electricity
and is pollution free. (Houghton.J,2004,p.314) The only output other than the electricity that
it produces is water. With the ability to be made in a large range of sizes these cells can be
used for many purposes. They can be used to power transport vehicles, be a source of energy
for homes and commercial premises or in industry.
23. Nasa used liquid hydrogen since 1970 to propel the space shuttle and other rockets into orbit.
The fuel cells powered the shuttles electrical systems which produced a clean by product –
pure water, which the crew then would drink. Houghton adds “there seems to be little doubt
that they will come into widespread use within the next decade” (Houghton.J,2004,p.314). If
from an environmental point of view the importance of this technology was recognised as one
of the leading reasons for its rapid development, the hydrogen economy could take off.
Iceland is setting the example to other countries by having much of its electricity come from
hydroelectricity or geothermal sources. It aims to be free from the use of fossil fuels by 2030-
2040. (Houghton.J,2004)
Climate change minister Greg Barker made an announcement when he met members of a
new initiative on marine energy. A renewable energy from the waves or tides is generating a
huge amount of energy in the South of England equivalent to the power generated from eight
coal – fired power stations while reducing emissions and fighting the fight against global
warming. With its contribution to the energy market it also supports thousands of jobs in this
sector worth as much as £15bn to the economy to 2050. (wavehub,2012,online)
Another example of the technology that can be further advanced took seven years of planning
a project which saw a plane complete a 24 hour test flight before landing in Switzerland. It
was one step closer to the aim of using only the energy from the sun to fly around the world.
By recharging its batteries using the 12,000 solar cells from only the rays of the sun during
the day it was a success for the project co-founder Bertrand Piccard who said “You land in a
new era where people understand that with renewable energy you can do impossible things”.
(The Guardian, 2012,online).
24. The prospects for such green technologies are achievable and will mean for a healthier planet
and a healthier way of life while at the same time offering opportunities to grow the
businesses of the future. They only need to be put into action.
Biomimicry case studies
Biomimicry or biomimetics is a science that studies the natural processes and models in
nature. The innovators and educators that are behind the studies are re-imagining the way
humans live. One thing that they have learned is that organisms never stop innovating.
When their habitat conditions change they learn to adapt and evolve. The world of
biomimicry has undergone many changes over the last few years and is now seen sprouting in
every corner of the planet with continuing growth and success. They continue to ask the
question “how would nature scale biomimicry”?
Inspiration is taken from the detailed examination of the systems and processes nature use
and transferred in order to solve human problems. It is mother nature that has been inventing
for billions of years. The world is full of wondrous ideas and has an endless list of inspiring
25. inventions. If humans were to immolate these design principles it would help solve the many
challenges facing the uncertain future.
Biomimicry 3.8 refers to 3.8 billion years of brilliant solutions. The work of this institution is
to distribute natures wisdom throughout the world using their network and try to begin to
create a world powered and mentored by natures genius.
One of the most famous cases of biomimicry was the invention of Velcro band fasteners. The
swiss engineer George de Mestral took his inspiration from burrs that stuck tenaciously to his
dogs hair. When he examined the burr closer under a microscope he could see how the tiny
hooks on the end of the spines caught anything with a loop. This lead to the design of Velcro
with the two strips of a hooked material opposite each other, one with a loose-looped weave
and one with a small loop. A simple yet clever design.
In May 2008, a team of Olympic swimmers took inspiration from some of the best swimmers
in nature during their training with the close study of sharks and dolphins. A team of coaches
and researches wanted to make sure that their athletes would benefit from the examination of
marine swimming abilities. Russel Mark commented on the excelling at the dolphin kick can
make or break a swimmer's race. This is when a swimmer pushes off walls and swims
underwater without moving their arms, very similar to how a dolphin swims.
(Viegas.J,2008,online)
26. "Some of our athletes are now wearing what are called 'shark skin suits,” Russell Mark,
biomechanics coordinator for U.S.A. Swimming, told Discovery News. The sharkskin
swimsuit received much press attention with its design to replicate the overlapping scales of a
shark called derma denticles. The groves disrupt and allow the turbulent swirls of slower
water to pass over the suit faster. Funnily enough these suits are now banned in major
competitions because of the advantage they are believed to give the swimmer. In this case
nature did it too well for the athletes.
The shark skin is also very clever in the way it can discourages parasitic growth such as algae
and barnacles. The architecture and pattern on the skins denticles keep the bacteria from
being able to land and adhere. A company called ‘Sharklet Technologies’ now are putting it
onto surfaces in hospitals to keep the bacteria from landing. This is better than covering the
surfaces with anti-bacterials or harsh chemical products that many organisms are becoming
resistant to. (Mother Nature Network,2012,online) What a clever design in nature that many
have taken for granted now is working to help resist the growth of bacteria and save many
lives.
If we are to progress with the sustainable revolution there are big changes that need to come
about. As mentioned in Michael Pawlyns talk he comments about three important factors to
be considered for the future. One being the radical increases in resource efficiency that are
needed. Also a change from a linear to a closed loop system meaning we find a use for our
waste and finally changing from a fossil fuel economy to a solar economy. For all of these
suggestions the solutions are found in the cases of Biomimicry. Using natures genius in
Architecture and Design would bring amazing transformations in the way people live and
how the planet can benefit us.(Tedtalks,2012,online)
27. With the 3.8 billion years of research and development in nature it makes sense to use this
wisdom to benefit humans and the environment. In his talk about Biomimicry, Michael
comments on some of the projects that have been explored. With the issue of tackling the
radical increases in resource efficiency the example of the eden project was discussed. Here
the design brief was to create a very large green house, it may sound quite ordinary but the
challenge arose from the ever changing and quarried site and irregular land. The clues to
finding the solutions where in examples of biology. It was soap bubbles that helped
architects create a building form regardless of the final ground levels and by studying pollen
grains and radiolaria carbon molecules it helped devise the most efficient structural solution
using hexagons and pentagons.
When deciding on the correct material to be used it was necessary for the architects to find an
alternative to glass because of its limitations in terms of the size of each unit. There are many
examples in nature based on pressurised membranes so a team of people began to explore a
material called E.T.F.E which is high in strength poluma. This is put together in three layers,
welded around the edges then inflated. The material can be made about seven times the size
of glass and only about 1% the weight of double glazing. This breakthrough lead to an
ongoing positive cycle that facilitated another, then another.(Tedtalks,2012,online)
The large pieces of lightweight E.T.F.E meant there was less steel needed in the frame which
meant more sunlight was entering the building which then meant not as much heating in
winter. Big savings were made in the foundations with there being less overall weight in the
28. superstructure of the building. Michael suggests that the overall weight of the structure is
less than the air inside. (ibid)
Humans usually have a way of using the resources available which is to extract them, turn
them into short term product then dispose of them. The Eden project shows how to take ideas
from nature and use these examples to resource efficiency but with a fraction of the resource
input. The way nature works is very different to humans, it has natural eco systems so the
waste from one organism becomes the nutrient for something else in that system. There is a
world of beauty and efficiency to explore with nature as a design tool. There are some clever
projects that have tried to imitate this process.
Another example of Biomimicry is the cardboard to caviar project by Graham Wiles . It was
introduced into an area containing lots of shops and restaurants producing food, cardboard
and plastic waste that was ending up in land fill. Here the new system had a use for all the
cardboard waste. The organisers were paid to collect the cardboard waste from restaurants, it
was shredded and then sold to equestrian centres as horse bedding. When that was soiled
they were paid again to collect it. It was then put into composting systems which produced a
lot of worms which they were then fed to syberian-cergin (a fish) which produced caviar
which was then sold back to the restaurants. (The able project,2012,online)
This system transformed a linear process into a closed loop model and it created more value
in the process. Graham Wiles has continued to add more elements to this turning the waste
streams into schemes that create value. Just as natural systems tend to increase in diversity
29. the same applies to the number of possibilities on this project. This example shows that the
big problem of waste could be transformed into an opportunity.
The Modius Project is aiming to put together a number of activities so that the waste from
one can become a nutrient for another. Michael Pawlyn mentions a restaurant inside a
productive greenhouse in Amsterdam that would have an anaerobic digester. This would
allow the bio-degradable waste from the local area to be turned into heat for the greenhouse
and electricity to feed back into the grid. A water treatment system would treat the waste
water and turn it into fresh water generating energy from the solids using plants and micro-
organisms. Michael also suggests that a fish farm would be fed with worms from the compost
and supply fish back to the restaurant. The waste grains from the coffee shop could be used to
grow mushrooms. These examples that are suggested bring cycles together for the process of
food, energy and waste.(Ted.com,2012,online)
The final project to be discussed is the Sahara Forest project which is developed at the
moment. This is a model for how humans could create zero carbon food, an abundance of
renewable energy in some of the most water stressed parts of the planet as well as reversing
desertification in certain areas. The seawater greenhouse is designed for arid coastal regions.
It has a whole wall of evaporator grills that are trickled with sea water. The wind blows
through and it picks up a lot of moisture which is cooled in the process. Inside the greenhouse
is cool and humid so cleverly the plants need less water to grow.
rdian.co.uk/environment/datablog/2012/jan/18/fossil-fuel-subsidy"
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technologies#/?picture=370035759&index=13
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Febuary,2012]
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biomimicry/sharkskin-swimsuit
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status-for-south-west-england/ [30th
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Namibian fog-basking beetle
http://vimeo.com/35889637 [6thFebruary,2012]
FILM
Leo Hickman(2012),TheGuardian,
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/blog/2012/jan/20/greedy-lying-bastards-oil-
filmmaker [23rd January, 2012]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iP7SMCtGt_g&feature=youtu.be [26th
January,
2012]produced and edited by James West