Water Exam One

Define Tragedy of the Commons

Garrett Hardin - when individuals act out of self-interest and exploit the whole system collapse

Define “water is the ultimate commons”

water is a shared resource that everyone depends on for survival - no one can truly own it

Kingsolver’s main message

water is both a wonder and a shared common resource - must be protected well-being of all living systems

Where are plastics (and microplastics) being found?

In oceans, In waterways, Atmosphere, In humans

What are some positive and negative impacts of plastics in the three domains of sustainability? (People)

People use Zero-waste grocery stores and Western countries ship waste to developing nations harming them

What are some positive and negative impacts of plastics in the three domains of sustainability? (Environment)

In 2018 China banned import of foreign plastic recyclables and discarded fishing nets trap and injure sea life

What are some positive and negative impacts of plastics in the three domains of sustainability? (Economy)

Recycling facilities (750 tons processed) create jobs and Illegal recycling plants exists in order to make profit

Riparian Rights

Landowners next to water can use it reasonably without altering flow (Eastern US)

Prior Appropriation

Whoever started using the water first has the right to keep using it (Western US)

What are the three categories of water that the EPA regulates?

Public Water (municipal), Surface Water (rain), and Groundwater (aquifers)

Chevron doctrine

said courts must trust agency experts to interpret unclear laws. In June 2024, judges decide instead

Sackett v EPA II Environmental impacts

Wetlands no longer protected and loss of natural water filtration + downstream pollution

Sackett v EPA II Economic impacts

Sackett family saves money on permits. Society may face higher water treatment costs

Sackett v EPA II Social impacts

Sackett family gains recognition and land use, but others may face more pollution

Sackett v EPA II Sustainability lens

Decision was not made through sustainability or social justice, it prioritized property rights over environmental health

H3O+

Hydronium

CO32-

Carbonate

SO42-

Sulfate

NO3-

Nitrate

PO43-

Phosphate

Fast Fashion People

Washing at cooler temps releases fewer fibers and there is Overconsumption and constant encouragement to buy

Fast Fashion Environment

Textile Recovery Act repurposes clothing and Fibers/chemicals enter waterways.

Fast Fashion Economy

Online shopping increases access, repurposing fabrics creates new uses and 100M+ textiles produced yearly, unfair labor in factories

Water Fluoridation Pros

Reduces tooth decay, Cost-effective in dental treatment costs, Gives fair access to dental protection

Water Fluoridation Cons

Dental fluorosis, Thyroid impacts, Brain development concerns