Poor Science, Technology and Society: Pollution, Water Conservation, and Land Conversion PDF

GROUP POOR SCIENCE. TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY  CONTENT 01 POLLUTION (ALL TYPES) AND ITS IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND BIODIVERSITY 02 IMPORTANCE OF WATER CONSERVATION LAND CONVERSION AND ITS 03 EFFECT TO THE ENVIRONMENT, SOCIETY AND ECONOMY 04 CONTRIBUTION O...

GROUP POOR SCIENCE. TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY  CONTENT 01 POLLUTION (ALL TYPES) AND ITS IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND BIODIVERSITY 02 IMPORTANCE OF WATER CONSERVATION LAND CONVERSION AND ITS 03 EFFECT TO THE ENVIRONMENT, SOCIETY AND ECONOMY 04 CONTRIBUTION OF HUMAN IN SHAPING AND RESHAPING NATURE FOR FUTURE GENERATION POLLUTION defined as the introduction of harmful substances or forms of energy into the environment, resulting in adverse effects. major types of pollution include air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, noise pollution and light pollution  TYPES OF POLLUTION refers to the release into the atmosphere of various Air Pollution gases, finely divided solids, or finely dispersed liquid aerosols at rates that exceed the natural capacity of the environment to dissipate, dilute, or absorb them. Air pollution significantly impacts biodiversity and ecosystems. defined as the introduction of harmful Water Pollution substances or contaminants into bodies of water, which degrades water quality and poses risks to both human health and aquatic ecosystems.​ Water pollution is the second most prevalent type of pollution and poses serious risks to aquatic biodiversity. refers to the contamination of soil with toxic Soil Pollution substances, both natural and man-made, which can pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Soil pollution reduces both the number and diversity of organisms due to toxicity from pollutants. The contamination affects nutrient cycling, leading to decreased primary productivity and disruptions in ecosystem services.  TYPES OF POLLUTION Noise Pollution Noise pollution is defined as unwanted or excessive sound that can have deleterious effects on human health, wildlife, and environmental quality. Light pollution refers to Light Pollution the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally, characterized by unwanted, inappropriate, or excessive artificial lighting. IMPORTANCE OF WATER CONSERVATION Environmental Water conservation protects natural Protection water sources, promotes clean water, and preserves the environment by responsibly managing water consumption and safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. Saving water leads to financial savings on Limited availability bills, water treatment costs, and processing of Resources expenses. It promotes sustainable financial practices, fostering mindfulness in daily water consumption. IMPORTANCE OF WATER CONSERVATION Health and Water conservation is vital for human Welfare health. Clean water access prevents diseases and ensures essential services work well, benefiting agriculture and sanitation. Saving water leads to financial savings on Economic bills, water treatment costs, and processing Benefits expenses. It promotes sustainable financial practices, fostering mindfulness in daily water consumption. IMPORTANCE OF WATER CONSERVATION Biodiveristy Water conservation is crucial for Preservation biodiversity preservation. Plant and animal species depend on clean water sources. Conserving water sustains habitats, protecting aquatic ecosystems and Earth's diverse life forms. Educating younger generations about Future water conservation is crucial for Implications addressing future water scarcity issues. Taking steps now to conserve water resources will ensure a sustainable future for all.  IMPACT OF WATER SCARCITY 1. Health and Sanitation Lack of clean water and proper sanitation facilities spreads diseases 2. Food Production and Agriculture Much of the world’s freshwater is used for crop irrigation, and water shortages translate directly to food shortages. 3. Migrations and Conflicts Water stresses can displace populations and lead to refugee crises as people move to find more liveable conditions. 4. Environmental Changes In the future, we could see an increased loss of biodiversity, deforestation and desertification from water shortages. 5. Climate Change Deforestation also reduces access to clean water which creates a vicious cycle where water scarcity intensifies the long term effects of climate change. LAND CONVERSION Its effect to the environment, society and economy Land conversion for agriculture, urbanization, and industry has significant environmental, social, and economic impacts. It disrupts ecosystems and biodiversity, affects soil health, leads to job losses, and alters community dynamics. Although it can promote growth, it also poses challenges for food security and sustainability. LAND CONVERSION IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Land conversion often leads to ecological disruption and degradation. For instance, the transformation of farmland to urban areas can result in habitat loss, soil erosion, and decreased biodiversity. 1. Habitat Loss and Biodiversity Reduction Land conversion often leads to the destruction of natural habitats, which is one of the most significant environmental impacts. 2. Soil Degradation The conversion of land, particularly for agricultural uses, commonly leads to soil degradation. Intensive farming practices can deplete soil nutrients and reduce its fertility, making it less productive over time. Urban development can increase soil compaction and disrupt the soil structure, leading to problems such as erosion and sedimentation 3. Water Resource Changes Land conversion can significantly alter the natural water cycle. Converting wetlands into agricultural land can disrupt natural filtration systems, resulting in increased pollution in local water bodies8. These changes can severely impact fresh water availability and quality in surrounding areas. 4. Climate Change Contributions Land conversion releases greenhouse gas emissions, worsens climate change. Deforestation for agriculture or urban development emits stored carbon, accelerating global warming. Land cover changes impact local climate, exacerbating climate change effects. 5. Increased Erosion and Sedimentation Converting land on slopes or hillsides, like for farming or urban development, can cause soil erosion and sedimentation in water bodies. This affects water quality and aquatic life by blocking light and habitats. 6. Altered Ecosystem Services Changing land from natural to developed alters ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, water purification, and habitat provision. Converting land often reduces ecosystem's ability to provide these services, impacting human communities. SOCIETAL IMPLICATIONS OF LAND CONVERSION The shift from rural to urban land use has profound social implications, especially for farmers losing their livelihoods. Concern for their welfare is widespread, as this conversion can also impact demographics, urban growth, and community dynamics. 1. Urbanization Urbanization is increasing globally, particularly in developing countries. The rapid growth of cities affects rural communities, leading to changes in traditional ways of life and land disputes due to higher demand. 2. Change in the use of agricultural land Agricultural land function change is notable in regions like Batu City, where it is frequently converted to tourism developments. This shift from agriculture to tourism affects local food production and farmers' livelihoods. 3. Environmental and Social Consequences Changes in land use in urbanizing areas have severe impacts on the environment, society, and economy. This leads to environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, increased pollution, and threats to community health. 4. Policy Responses Needed Policies promoting sustainable land use for agricultural land conversion to tourist attractions require effective governance and government-community commitment to balance development and conservation needs, with policymakers considering long-term societal and environmental impacts. 5. Economic Development vs. Food Security Converting crop land to forest and grassland can improve ecological construction and agricultural industry structure, but balance with food security is crucial. Disruptions from land conversion can harm local food systems. ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF LAND CONVERSION Land conversion for economic growth and risks. Redevelopment of coal mine sites crucial for research, showing economic opportunities and challenges of land use changes. Energy subsidies impact economy's sustainability, removal affecting consumer prices and larger economic implications. 1. Economic Challenges of Agricultural Land Conversion Over 50 years, Agricultural Land Conversion (ALC) has brought economic challenges as human activities change land usage, creating conflicts in resource allocation and sustainability, impacting food production and rural livelihoods. 2. Urbanization and Economic Development Urbanization causes economic impacts in metropolitan areas as it leads to increased demand for housing and infrastructure, converting agricultural land and affecting food security and local economies. 3. Contributions of Conserved Forests Privately-owned forests offer environmental, economic, and cultural benefits. Conversion to other uses risks these benefits. USDA Forest Service's Forest Legacy Program works to protect forests and their economic value. 4. Ecological and Economic Implications of Biofuels Biofuel production impacts land, economy, and environment. Mandates for expansion result in land changes, creating economic opportunities while competing with agriculture and natural resources. 6. Overall Economic Landscape ​Overall, land conversion can reshape local economies, leading to potential benefits and drawbacks.​ While it can foster economic growth through development projects and alternative land uses, it also demands careful consideration of sustainability and long- term impacts on both local communities and ecosystems. CONTRIBUTIONS OF HUMAN IN SHAPING AND RESHAPING NATURE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS Human actions have deeply altered nature, leading to climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental damage. Transitioning to sustainable practices is essential for ecological balance. Acknowledging past impacts is crucial to safeguard the planet for future generations. 1. Human-Centric Urban Planning Urban landscape planning currently favors short-term outcomes over long-term sustainability due to a human-centric approach, limiting decision-making to a small group. This neglects the connection between human activities and ecological systems, impacting future generations. 2. Biodiversity and Environmental Impact Scientists and regulators are concerned about the rapid decline in biodiversity, which threatens the foundational ecosystems of Earth. Urgent action is needed to preserve biodiversity and ensure future generations have access to vital resources. 3. Climate Change as an Existential Threat Human-induced climate change is an undeniable reality, yet global efforts to address this crisis are disappointingly slow. Its impact goes beyond the environment, affecting future generations' health and wellbeing. Urgent proactive measures and policies are needed to mitigate these effects and encourage pro-environmental behaviors for a better quality of life. 4. Ethical Considerations for Future Generations Human impact on the environment has caused major problems for current and future generations. Ethical responsibility requires implementing sustainable practices to ensure resources and environmental health are preserved for future inhabitants. 5. The Role of Sustainable Development Future generations can survive and thrive by embracing sustainable development principles. It is crucial to align human needs with environmental preservation through comprehensive policies for long- term sustainability and a decent standard of living.