August 25,2025

Scientific Inquiry and Problem-Solving Process

A 5-step process for inquiry and problem-solving: 1. Formulate your question, 2. Gather your information, 3. Apply the information, 4. Consider the implications, 5. Explore other points of view.

Lamprey Effects on Trout (Initial Belief)

Initial belief suggested parasitic Sea Lamprey caused lake trout decline in the Great Lakes.

Lamprey Effects on Trout (Key Finding)

Overfishing, with effort growing exponentially since 1820, was the real reason for lake trout population decline in the Great Lakes.

Climate Change

Long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns primarily due to human activities (e.g., burning fossil fuels).

Guam Environmental Concerns

Loss of biodiversity, air pollution, ocean health, water pollution, overpopulation, energy use, and severe weather events.

Three Main Environmental Challenges

1. **Population**: The abundance of people and their mutualistic species. 2. **Resources**: The use and abuse of non-renewable natural resources. 3. **Environmental Damage**: The effects of pollution, disturbance, and other stressors on human welfare and natural ecosystems.

Current Global Human Population

Approximately 8,169,952,099

Annual Human Population Growth

Approximately 80 million people annually.

Projected Global Human Population by 2050

Between 8 and 10 billion.

Environmental Ethics

The examination of values, rights, and obligations concerning the environment.

Key Question in Environmental Ethics

Do organisms have rights?