Human Environment Interaction

What are three ways humans interact with their environment?

Prepare, react, and change.

What are some key concerns associated with a global population of 7 billion?

How many is too many? How to protect remaining resources? What are the major negative impacts?

What are some primary reasons for deforestation?

Need for wood, business profits, lack of regulation in developing countries.

What are some negative impacts of deforestation?

Destroyed soil fertility, erosion, flooding, loss of biodiversity.

What is a major historical event that significantly increased air pollution?

The Industrial Revolution.

Name some consequences of air pollution.

Acid rain, smog, city health issues/diseases.

What are some potential impacts of global climate change?

Changing climates (droughts, floods), intensified weather, threats to food and water supply, health/sanitation issues.

What are some human activities that contribute to desertification?

Overgrazing, over-farming, erosion.

What are some potential consequences of desertification?

Food scarcity, water scarcity, conflict/war.

How do human activities impact access to clean water?

Dams, pollution, irrigation.

What is an example of a river facing significant pollution issues due to human

The Ganges River.

What were some of the environmental consequences of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill?

Harm to thousands of sea turtles, dolphins, whales, birds, and countless fish and invertebrates.

What are some major concerns associated with nuclear energy?

Waste disposal and the risk of accidents.

Name three significant nuclear accidents mentioned.

Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, Fukushima.

What is the core idea behind sustainable development?

To develop economically while protecting Earth's resources.

Name some examples of technologies or efforts that can contribute to sustainable development.

Solar power, cloud seeding, recycling, using less energy and water.

Outbreak

A sudden increase in disease cases.

Endemic

A disease consistently present in a specific area.

Epidemic

A rapid and widespread spread of a disease.

Pandemic

A disease affecting nearly all people globally.

Impact phase (0-4 days)

Immediate infections

Post-impact Phase (4 days - 4 weeks):

Airborne, foodborne, waterborne, and vector-borne diseases.

Recovery Phase

Diseases with long incubation periods, chronic diseases, and vector-borne illnesses.

Environmental Considerations

Climate, season, rainfall, geography.

Endemic Organisms:

Pre-existing diseases in the area may become more common.

Population Characteristics:

Density, age, chronic diseases, education levels.

Pre-event Structure and Public Health:

Sanitation (clean water), healthcare, nutrition, disaster preparedness, medical supplies, transportation, and medical facilities.

Type and Magnitude of the Disaster:

The nature and scale of the event itself.