Introduction & the process of science Chapter 1
During this quarter, we will discuss: What environmental science is, what constitutes natural function, the process of science, some of today’s key environmental issues, and our current paradigm with regards to the environment, & what type of shift is required for sustainability & long term solutions.
What does the term “environment” mean to you What does the term “environment” mean to you? and What does the term “science” mean to you?
Sooo, the environment is: our planet and everything on it the biotic the abiotic
“Studying the environment” is environmental science “Studying the environment” is environmental science. What does that mean? Science is: Science also:
Science has limitations Science does not:
How science works The scientific method
This diagram is better represents the non- linear dynamics of scientific work
How evidence is gathered Discovery science Hypothesis-based science
What is a hypothesis anyway?
Experiment should be controlled experimental group control group Should have a good sample size;
Controlled experiments contain: Independent variable Dependent variable Standardized/controlled variable
How to evaluate science in the media Consider the source Consider the expert Consider the funding Is the report free of bias? Is it balanced?
So, environmental science then, is. . . The interdisciplinary study of so that
At the end of the day, what does this scientific process give us? Outcome 1: New/altered theories Outcome 2: A paradigm shift Outcome 3: More questions & problems Outcome 4:
What does the environment provide for us? 1. Natural resources
Renewable natural resources
Renewable natural resources
Non-renewable resources
What does the environment provide for us? 1. Natural resources renewable & non-renewable 2. Ecosystem services
The Key Environmental Issue What threatens our natural environmental function & ecosystem services that it provides?
The Key Environmental Issue Human Population Growth… Future Projections from UN Pop. Div. Year
The Key Environmental Issue
The Key Environmental Issue ecological footprint
The Key Environmental Issue What happens when overpopulation, exploitation and overconsumption of natural resources occurs?
The Key Environmental Issue Overshoot! Resource use? 50% faster than they are replenished!
Sustainable Development
Sustainable Development Has three main areas 1.