Polynesia

What techniques do scientists use to reconstruct the impact of human populations on the environment?

• Coring of floodplains & basins:

  • Pollen analysis – Determines historical vegetation changes.

  • Charcoal analysis – Identifies past fire activity and human-induced deforestation.

  • Sediment analysis – Reconstructs soil erosion and land degradation.

• Faunal remains from archaeological sites:

  • Species extinction – Identifies loss of biodiversity.

  • Fish remains – Tracks decline in high-yield species and changes in marine ecosystems.

  • Reduction in size & age of fish consumed – Indicates overfishing and environmental stress. 

What was the history of human environmental impact and social change on Mangaia & Tikopia?

• Mangaia (cook islands)

  • slash and burn led to deforestation

  • rapid soil erosion

  • bird extinction

  • overpopulation → food scarcity

• tikopia (solomon islands)

  • same initial issues

  • adapted and became sustaintable

Why was the ultimate fate of human societies so different on these two islands? Explain in detail your opinion on this question using information from the lecture and the article.  

Mangaia's larger land size may have encouraged conflict over resources, while Tikopia’s smaller size promoted cooperation. Mangaia suffered from overexploitation, whereas Tikopia adapted early and imposed population controls. Tikopia’s leadership played a proactive role in environmental management, whereas Mangaia lacked structured intervention. The societal mindset on Tikopia focused on long-term survival rather than short-term gains.

What do these two case studies tell us about our future on Earth? Construct a sound argument to support your answer. 

Human decisions shape environmental outcomes. Overpopulation and overconsumption can lead to ecological collapse. Sustainability requires proactive adaptation and cooperation. Governance and collective action play a crucial role in managing resources. Current global challenges (climate change, resource depletion) mirror past patterns seen in Mangaia and Tikopia. The future depends on whether we adopt sustainable practices like Tikopia or continue unsustainable consumption like Mangaia.