List the potential solution we discussed regarding waste disposal. Also explain the disadvantage of this solution.
We could incinerate trash, but this may put harmful gases into the air.
300
What are two sources of air pollution?
Any two of the following: vehicles, factories, power plants
300
Why is biodiversity important?
Ecosystems with higher biodiversity recover more quickly than those with lower biodiversity.
300
Which government organization is in charge of enforcing all environmental laws in the U.S.?
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
300
How does mass transit benefit the environment?
traffic is reduced, less air and noise pollution, and less use of fossil fuels
400
What is one way that SUBURBAN development harms natural ecosystems?
Natural habitats disappear due to land expansion, carbon cycle is disrupted, increased need for cars increases pollution
400
What are three sources of water pollution?
Any three of the following: oil spills, soil, erosion, wastewater, chemical runoff
400
Give an example of a species that has been brought from one ecosystem into a new one.
Examples may vary - the one from the reading was the loosestrife plant.
400
How did the book "Silent Spring" inspire the environmental awareness movement in the U.S.? (i.e. which problem did it address?)
It sparked debate about serious pollution problems.
400
Name two things people can do at home to reduce waste and pollution.
recycle, lower the thermostat, use energy efficient light bulbs
500
Give two problems that developed after people made a plan to share Colorado River water.
Any two of the following: 1) The agreement ignored Native Americans. 2) The dams and reservoirs destroyed rive ecosystems. 3) There was not enough water to meet the amounts each state wanted to withdraw.
500
Explain three ways in which pollution can move across systems (i.e. from land to water, etc.)
Wind can carry acid rain. chemical pollutants can run off land into groundwater. Pollutants in the water can evaporate into the air.
500
Explain how biodiversity directly benefits humans.
Biodiversity is important to humans because plants and animals are important resources. Without certain plants or animals, our lives would be drastically affected. High biodiversity helps to strengthen ecosystems.
500
Explain why the U.S. can't just rely on state or local governments to write and enforce environmental laws.
Animals migrate, and pollution can travel across states. Federal laws need to be implemented so that all states follow the laws.
500
Name three sources of alternative energy (excluding solar energy), and briefly explain each one.
Hydropower - using moving water to produce energy. Geothermal - using the heat below Earth's surface to produce energy. Wind - using wind to produce electricity.