1. Unit 4: Northern & NW Europe
Human Environment Interaction

2. Northern Europe
Human Environment Interaction

3. Managing Resources Baltic Sea Boreal forest Wetlands overfishing
trawling
polluted chemical runoff from coastal and river areas near industries
high ship traffic bringing invasive species
Boreal forest
ecosystems destroyed by deforestation
increased levels of carbon dioxide due to deforestation
Wetlands
cleared to make room for industry and homes
disrupted by dams built for hydroelectric power
polluted by industrial drainage and the process of peat production

4. Human Impact
Climate change, acid rain, and pollution are affecting Northern Europe.
Scandinavian scientists were among the first to understand the environmental effects of acid rain.
High latitudes and steep mountain valleys make climate change more noticeable in Northern Europe.

5. Addressing the Issues
Environmental management focuses on sustainability and long-term planning.
Conservation has been important for the Nordic countries for over 100 years.
The region supports ecotourism to encourage tourism that limits damage to the unique lands of Northern Europe.

6. North Western Europe
Human Environment Interaction

7. Managing Resources
NW Europe consumes large amounts of natural resources and generates large amounts of waste
Pollution is a problem for wildlife, animals & humans.
Overfishing is a major concern.
Fragmentation of the landscape, caused by roads & railways has resulted in some animal populations becoming isolated.

8. Human Impact Industrial pollution
Marine & coastal ecosystems have declined
Overfishing
Pollution
Introduction of invasive species
Coastal development
Mediterranean Sea used for waste disposal
Air pollution as a result of auto manufacturing and use of autos
Industrial pollution
Acid rain drifts across borders
Acid deposition
Damages forests & rivers
Fish & other aquatic life dies
Damages buildings & statues

9. Addressing the Issues
Countries in the EU can face legal action if they do not respect environmental protection laws.
Many factories now burn natural gas instead of coal, or are powered by alternative energy sources.
All the countries in Northwestern Europe have ratified the Kyoto Protocol, an amendment designed to reduce greenhouse gases, part of a treaty on climate change.
Cap-and-trade is a system that sets limits on emissions and allows businesses to buy and sell emission credits.
EU Water Directive will require rivers to meet new regulations to protect water resources.
Governments and NGOs such as Greenpeace, Oceana, & Seas At Risk are working together to address pollution and protect the environment.