Science Matters and Introduction to Sustainability.

Why is it important to use scientific studies as a guide?

Scientific studies provide evidence-based information that helps inform our decisions and minimize risks.

What are the best sources of scientific information?

Peer-reviewed journals are considered the best source because they undergo rigorous evaluation by experts in the field.

Types of scientific studies: Experimental Studies

These involve manipulating variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships.

Types of scientific studies: Observational Studies

These involve observing and recording behavior or outcomes without manipulation.

Step of a controlled experiment

Identify the control group and the experimental group.

Explain the control group in a controlled experiment.

The control group serves as a baseline to compare against the experimental group that is exposed to the variable.

What are the three broad world views in observations?

1. Anthropocentrism, 2. Biocentrism, 3. Ecocentrism.

Define sustainability.

Sustainability is the ability to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.

Define ecological footprint.

The ecological footprint measures the demand on Earth's ecosystems and compares human demand with planet Earth's ability to regenerate resources.

Define carbon footprint.

The carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by human activities, expressed in carbon dioxide equivalents.

Define overshoot.

Overshoot occurs when the demand on a natural resource exceeds the Earth's ecological capacity to regenerate that resource.

Define biocapacity.

Biocapacity is the capacity of an area to generate renewable resources and absorb waste.

What are the three pillars of sustainability?

The three pillars are economic viability, environmental protection, and social equity, which are essential for balanced sustainability.

Why is it important to incorporate the three pillars of sustainability?

Incorporating all three pillars ensures long-term sustainability and addresses the interconnectedness of economic, environmental, and social systems.

Name your favorite UN sustainability goal.

For example, Goal 13: Climate Action - it emphasizes the urgent need to combat climate change and its impacts.

What is the Impact equation?

Impact = Population x Affluence x Technology, each component highlights the contributing factors to environmental impact.

What are limitations of the Impact equation?

The equation oversimplifies complex interactions and may not fully capture social or cultural variables.

Will reducing poverty always negatively impact the environment?

Not necessarily; sustainable development can improve affluence without harming the environment.

Assessment measures for sustainability.

Some measures include carbon emissions, resource consumption rates, and biodiversity indicators.

What is the Paris Agreement?

An international treaty aimed at combating climate change, it is generally considered non-binding but sets frameworks for countries.

Why is it important to live sustainably?

Sustainable living is crucial to preserving resources for future generations and mitigating environmental degradation.

How can students contribute to increasing sustainability?

Students can participate in recycling programs, promote awareness, and engage in sustainable practices.

What is the tragedy of the commons?

The tragedy of the commons is a situation where individual users deplete a shared resource, leading to its depletion for all.

What is our impact on the atmosphere?

Human activities contribute to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change, significantly affecting atmospheric conditions.

What is our impact on the biosphere?

Our impact includes habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and alteration of ecosystems due to human activities.