RG

01 - the environment

Introducing Environmental Science and Sustainability

Chapter 1 Overview

  • Introduction to environmental science and its importance in understanding sustainability.

Environment

  • Defined as the physical (abiotic) and biological (biotic) things and conditions surrounding a living organism.

  • Energy transfers and heat loss along a food chain illustrated by organisms like trees, caterpillars, microbes, and birds.

Environmental Science

  • The study of our natural environment and human interaction within it.

  • Interdisciplinary in nature, incorporating biology, ecology, Earth sciences, and social sciences.

  • Prominent applied aspect: Environmentalism focuses on solving environmental problems to protect biodiversity, ecosystem function, and human health.

Humans and the Environment

  • The environment provides humanity with goods (natural resources) and intangible services (ecological services).

  • Many goods and services are irreplaceable and not directly paid for.

Natural Resources (Goods)

  • Nonrenewable Resources:

    • Examples: Minerals, fossil fuels, which are limited and depleted by use.

  • Renewable Resources:

    • Examples: Solar energy, soil, air, water, biodiversity.

    • These resources can be replenished if not overexploited.

Ecological Services

  • Supporting Services: Primary production, soil formation, nutrient cycling.

  • Regulating Services: Climate regulation, pollination, flood control, water purification, oxygen production.

  • Cultural Services: Aesthetic, spiritual, educational, recreational benefits.

Human Impact on the Environment

  • Humans have significantly altered the environment.

The Anthropocene

  • Geologic epoch where humanity is the main driver of planetary change.

  • Characterized by planetary boundaries indicating safe limits for various environmental variables:

    • Greenhouse gas concentrations

    • Freshwater usage

    • Land use

    • Biodiversity loss

Human Population

  • Current U.S. population: 341 million

  • World population: 8.1 billion, projected to peak at 10.4 billion by 2100.

  • Historical growth trends charting population increase over centuries.

Human Resource Consumption

  • Humans consume about 30% of Earth’s net primary production.

  • 83% of the Earth’s surface has been modified by human activity.

  • Humans use 50% of the accessible fresh water on the planet.

Developed vs Developing Nations

  • Developed Nations: e.g., U.S., Europe, Japan.

    • Comprise 19% of world population.

  • Developing Nations: e.g., China, India, Brazil.

    • Comprise 81% of world population.

Ecological Footprint

  • Measures the amount of productive land, freshwater, and ocean resources consumed by an individual.

  • Per capita ecological footprint varies by nation:

    • India: 0.9 hectares

    • U.S.: 7.9 hectares

  • Global human ecological footprint approximately 1.5 Earths.

  • It would take 4-5 Earths to sustain populations at consumption levels of developed nations.

IPAT Model

  • Formula: I = PAT

    • I = Environmental impact

    • P = Population size

    • A = Affluence (per capita resource consumption)

    • T = Environmental effects of technology

Addressing Environmental Problems

  • Strategies for addressing environmental issues include:

    • Scientific assessment

    • Risk analysis (including the precautionary principle)

    • Public education and involvement

    • Political action

    • Long-term evaluation of solutions

Precautionary Principle

  • When serious environmental damage is possible, preventive measures should be taken, even if scientific knowledge is incomplete or inconclusive.

Sustainability

  • Involves wise use of natural resources and minimizing negative environmental impacts like pollution to meet current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their needs.

Sustainable Development

  • The 21st-century challenge is to improve living standards in developing nations while maintaining a healthy environment.

Three Components of Sustainable Development

  • Environmental Viability: Ensuring ecosystems remain functional.

  • Economic Viability: Promoting an economy that supports sustainability.

  • Social Equity: Ensuring fair distribution of resources and benefits across society.

Goals for the Course

  • Increase awareness and appreciation of the natural environment.

  • Enhance understanding of natural systems and ecological concepts.

  • Explore current environmental issues.

  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills related to environmental issues.