Geology Question

Assignment 1

GEO-208

100 points (5%)

Date May 20, 2019

Introduction-Environmental Systems, Resource and Population growth

Understanding the dynamics of complex environmental systems and the interaction of subsystems (spheres) in our planet is very important. The system approach in the study of the earth science, which considers the earth as a closed approximation of the natural closed system, has extremely important implications in the usage of natural resources, waste management and climate change studies.

1. In our day-to-day activities, we rely on many things that require nonrenewable resources. All nonrenewable resources in a closed system are limited so we have to use them wisely.

2. When we dispose of waste, we should remember that the waste would remain in the boundary of the earth.

Learning objectives:

A. Understanding the system approach and its use in Earth science

B. Understanding Earth as a closed system

C. The use of natural resources and society

D. Beware of the natural world (especially our surroundings)

E. Population growth and environmental sustainability

Answer each of the following question in an essay format (Answer each question separately). There is no one single answer to any of the following question. But, I want to see how well you research the subject, investigate the environmental problem given, and critically evaluate the information.

1. A. Explain the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources and give

three examples of each.

B. List things that you/your family relay on a day-to-day basis that requires the use

of nonrenewable natural resources? Pick two of them and explain how your life

would be changed without it.

2. According to the Sustainable Table website (http://www.sustainabletable.org/246/sustainable-agriculture-the-basics), “Sustainable agriculture is the production of food, fiber, or other plant or animal products using farming techniques that protect the environment, public health, human communities, and animal welfare”. Go to their website and describe the four primary benefits of sustainable agriculture (in your own words!)

3. Using the population doubling time formula estimate how long it would take a population of 5 billion to double, given an annual growth rate of 1.2%. (please include the formula used)

4. What do you think would be more effective in minimizing the impact of human on the planet: controlling population growth in the developing countries (where most growth in fact occurring) or curbing consumption of resources in developed countries (where impact per person is highest)? Explain your answer and cite evidence. Identify the assumptions you used to answer this question.

5. From your text book page 27 (“Some questions to think about”), answer question #1

6. From your text book page 27 (Some questions to think about), answer question #2

Due: May 26, 2019 at 11:55 PM

NO late submission accepted!