III. Human Effects

Toxins in the environment

Often not a problem at low concentrations but…

Biological magnification: toxins more concentrated at higher trophic levels ex. DDT, plastic

Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change

• Greenhouse effect

  • Much of solar E reflected back into space

  • Some gases reflect IR back to surface 

  • More greenhouse gas -> trap too much heat

  • Global temperature rising 

• Results:

  • Flooding

  • Rising sea levels

  • Smog

  • Wildfires

  • Disease causing pathogens with rapid division

• Sources

  • Electricity and heat production

  • Agriculture forestry land use

  • Industry

  • Transportation 

• Solutions

  • Phase out fossil fuels

  • Decarbonize electrical grid, use solar, wind etc

  • Electric transportation 

  • Electrify everything

  • Reforestation

  • Carbon capture, -deal with effects, -stop building on barrier islands

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