Environmental Science

Our Main Environmental Problems Resource Depletion 1. Any natural substance that living things use = natural resource. a. Renewable Resources 1. Are continually replaced, like sunlight and trees 2. Can still be depleted if use exceeds ability of resource to renew.

b. Non-renewable 1. Cannot be replaced. a. Oil b. Mineral ores Pollution 1. Introduction of harmful levels of chemicals or waste into the environment. 2. Some created for practical purposes, but cause problems in environment.

Extinction 1. The last individual member of the species has died. 2. Species is gone forever. 3. Rate of extinction much faster now than at anytime during history. 4. Most species become extinct because their natural homes are being destroyed. Click in Box to play Movie

1. Highly industrialized Developing Countries 1. Less industrialized 2. Lower incomes 3. Population crisis due to rapid increase in population. Developed Countries 1. Highly industrialized 2. High average incomes 3. Ex: US, Canada, Japan 4. Consumption crisis problem as resources used up.

A Global Perspective Biosphere – thin layer of life around the Earth. 1. Extends from surface to about 5 miles into the atmosphere. 2. Extends about 5 miles into the deepest oceans.

Sustainable World A world in which human populations can continue to exist indefinitely with a high standard of living and health. Habitats preserved. Garbage turned into harmless substances. Resources used so that there will always be enough for generations that follow.

Applied Science – uses information from Pure Science – seeks to answer questions about how the natural world works. Physics Biology Applied Science – uses information from pure science to solve practical problems. 1. Environmental science 2. Engineers and Physicians