Environmental Science Summary

INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

• Environmental science studies the relationship between humans and the environment.

WHAT IS ENVIRONMENT?

• Environment encompasses all living and non-living things, built structures, and social relationships.

HUMANS AND THE ENVIRONMENT

• Human survival relies on a healthy planet; interactions with the environment are crucial.
• Environmental degradation (pollution, extinction) poses risks to human health and survival.

GOALS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

• Develop sustainable practices for food, water, materials, and air.
• Address environmental issues, including preservation ethics and quality of life.

NATURAL RESOURCES

• Renewable resources: sunlight, wind (sustained but can be depleted).
• Non-renewable resources: oil, coal (depletable).
• Resource management is essential due to population growth outpacing resource availability.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

• Promotes awareness and skills to address environmental challenges sustainably.
• Encourages critical thinking about environmental issues.

POPULATION GROWTH

• Over 6.7 billion people; driven by agricultural and industrial revolutions.

MALTHUSIAN THOUGHT

• Population outpacing food production can lead to crises (starvation, conflict).

ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT

• Measures environmental impact of humans; currently exceeds sustainable limits.

SCENARIO OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

• Aids in avoiding past mistakes and emphasizes the need for global interaction.

ETHICS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

• Environmental ethics question how humans interact with nature.
• Ethical standards guide decision-making regarding environmental sustainability.

SUSTAINABILITY

• A core principle; focuses on living within Earth's means while ensuring future resource availability.