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.