Question #1: What role, if any, should zoo's play in conservation and education?
I believe that zoo's do exist as a place to preserve and protect some animals, and play a part in educating youth and adults on the issues surrounding wildlife. However, I also feel that zoo's do not accommodate all of the animals that might live there. I feel as though keeping animals in captivity is not fair to the true nature of the animal. Zoo's can act to help a threatened species, but I feel as though this can hinder the animal if it was to be released back into the wild.
Question #2: Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos? If so, what size or type of animal or zoo?
I do not believe that it is ethical to keep animals in zoos. It is not fair to keep an animal caged, and deprived of its natural lifestyle. I believe that the natural instincts of animals can be lost when they are kept in captivity. Instincts, such as hunting skills, and basic protection against predators. Since animals are not exposed to a natural ecosystem they lose the functions. I do not think that any animal, big or small, belongs at a zoo.
Question #3: Do you enjoy visiting zoos?
I can honestly say that I am not a fan of the zoo. It might be interesting to see the animals in person, but they are not immersed in their natural habitat so it defeats the purpose of seeing how the animal might behave. It is sad to see animals in small quarters, yelled at all day, and put on display for large crowds. I would much rather go out into nature and experience animals in their natural environments, this way I can gain a true sense of the animals and their surroundings.
Other Comments
I really enjoyed taking this course. I found the topics that we covered to be interesting and insightful. I thought that the vocabulary terms given out were a great way to keep us thinking about the class, and the issues associated with the environment. I learnt a lot about environmental issues that I was not familiar with before. I also found the waste audit assignment to be very successful for myself. It was a great way to look at my waste production, and the environmental action allowed me the opportunity to improve my waste habits. Overall, I got a lot out of this class, and am grateful that I got the chance to take a class centered around current issues that our society faces.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Ted Talk: Wish to Protect Our Oceans / Sylvia Earle - Activities Blog #4
Summary
This talk by Sylvia Earle is centered around the importance and preservation of the ocean. Earle discusses her history and experiences with oceans, and through the use of her personal views Earle is able to highlight the importance of the ocean as the main life support system on Earth. Earle delivers a strong introduction, with alarming facts about the degradation of the oceans ecosystems. She states that everyone is connected to the ocean, and it shapes the earth, climate, and is the key to the human life cycle. Earle makes it clear that humans are responsible for the loss of ocean assets, and that the impact is severe. Another aspect Earle touches on is the benefit of technology, and how new technologies are needed in order to protect the oceans biodiversity, and to increase its resilience. Through the use of humour and photos, Earle captures the attention of the audience. She emphasizes the degree of degradation world wide, but remains optimistic by stating that there is still time to change the situation. She also promotes that hope is derived from the already protected areas of the oceans. To finish off, Earle states that "the time is now", and that in order to protect future generations, changes must occur immediately.
Impressions
I found this video to be highly intriguing. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Sylvia Earle speak, and found her opinions to be honest and humble. The series of photos are phenomenal and truly add depth to the video. Seeing all the different species is fascinating, but it is amazing that this is only a tiny fraction of the life in the ocean. It is interesting to think of the ocean as our life support system, but it is true we are all connected by the ocean. The video also presented some shocking statistics, which really put into perspective how much damage the ocean has endured. I agree with Earle when she says that the time to change is now. If we start to eliminate the issues we are creating, then there is opportunity for restoration. It is important for people to be aware of the impacts they are creating, and I believe that this video does a great job of highlighting the implications of our world, and what needs to be done in order to repair the damage done.
This talk by Sylvia Earle is centered around the importance and preservation of the ocean. Earle discusses her history and experiences with oceans, and through the use of her personal views Earle is able to highlight the importance of the ocean as the main life support system on Earth. Earle delivers a strong introduction, with alarming facts about the degradation of the oceans ecosystems. She states that everyone is connected to the ocean, and it shapes the earth, climate, and is the key to the human life cycle. Earle makes it clear that humans are responsible for the loss of ocean assets, and that the impact is severe. Another aspect Earle touches on is the benefit of technology, and how new technologies are needed in order to protect the oceans biodiversity, and to increase its resilience. Through the use of humour and photos, Earle captures the attention of the audience. She emphasizes the degree of degradation world wide, but remains optimistic by stating that there is still time to change the situation. She also promotes that hope is derived from the already protected areas of the oceans. To finish off, Earle states that "the time is now", and that in order to protect future generations, changes must occur immediately.
Impressions
I found this video to be highly intriguing. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Sylvia Earle speak, and found her opinions to be honest and humble. The series of photos are phenomenal and truly add depth to the video. Seeing all the different species is fascinating, but it is amazing that this is only a tiny fraction of the life in the ocean. It is interesting to think of the ocean as our life support system, but it is true we are all connected by the ocean. The video also presented some shocking statistics, which really put into perspective how much damage the ocean has endured. I agree with Earle when she says that the time to change is now. If we start to eliminate the issues we are creating, then there is opportunity for restoration. It is important for people to be aware of the impacts they are creating, and I believe that this video does a great job of highlighting the implications of our world, and what needs to be done in order to repair the damage done.
Reading Summaries Blog #4
Life and Death of the Salt Marsh - Section #8
This section was a small portion from a book written by John and Mildred Teal. The introduction begins as a tale of the salt marshes, and is highly descriptive. They describe the differences between a healthy marsh, and a sick marsh, including details such as the odors. There is also a comparison between north and south marshes, and the functionality of people walking on them. Another feature the authors describe is what the marshes look like during high and low tides. John and Mildred go on to emphasize the implications of human exposure to the wetland and marsh ecosystems. They state that humans directly and indirectly harm the wetlands, through ignorant destruction, and through pollution. They also propose that the increase in coastal populations will degrade the wetlands even further. Solutions to maintain the wetlands are offered by the authors, and they state that the wetlands must be preserved almost in entirety if the preservation of the wetlands is to have any real meaning. In reality, the wetlands are more valuable as wetlands than what has become of them.
Ecosystems and Human Well-being - Section #10
This reading follows the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment from 2005. It discusses the fact that in the past 50 years humans have altered ecosystems more than ever before. The assessment identifies three main issues associated with change and the management of the worlds ecosystems. These issues are as follows: 1) Approximately 60% of the ecosystems examined are being degraded or used unsustainably; 2) changes being made in ecosystems are increasing the possibility of nonlinear changes in ecosystems; and 3) the harmful effects of the degradation of ecosystem services are being borne disproportionately by the poor, are contributing to growing inequalities, and can lead to poverty and social conflicts. The assessment shows that there are no simple solutions, however a variety of options to better the sustainable management of ecosystems are available. Through the use of many examples, the assessment addresses the issues surrounding proper ecosystem management, and highlights the changes that are possible in order to improve management systems.
Living Downstream: An Ecologist looks at Cancer and the Environment - Section #28
The following selection is a piece taken from a larger work titled Living Downstream: An Ecologist looks at Cancer and the Environment, by Sandra Steingraber. In this small section, Steingraber talks about her family and the variety of cancer types that several of her family members were diagnosed with. She presents that humans are susceptible to their environments, and that one of the greatest causes of cancer is environmental exposure. Personal stories and connections bring Steingrabers words to life. As well, the quality of detail and description draw the reader into her journey, allowing them to gain a true sense of her experiences. Steingraber also discusses information on isolated cancer cases, but was unable to find information on a combination of contaminants or encounters. She goes on to talk about cancer's environmental roots, stating that societies are focused on genes being a major cause of cancer, instead of environments. The piece finishes off by looking at the principle of the least toxic alternative: an approach that presumes toxic substances will not be used while other options are available. The reader is able to obtain a clear idea of Steingrabers experiences and views from this short section of the her book.
Our Stolen Future - Section #29
This article from the textbook focuses on how chemicals have become a part of the human's environment and are ultimately becoming a part of their bodies. The authors state that people forget that their well-being is rooted in natural systems, since people live in man-made landscapes. The article compares the concept of synthetic chemical testing on animals to the actual effects of these chemicals on humans. The notion is presented that animal testing is inaccurate since test animals are not humans. The authors prove this idea with evidence showing that hormone disruptor's that threaten animals pose the same threat on human populations. The article demonstrates that animal studies provide an outlet for identifying and investigating what might occur in humans. It also displays that animal studies can deliver early warnings about the serious implications of synthetic chemicals. Overall, this article was well organized and factual, and offered an in-depth look into the issues that synthetic chemicals pose on societies today and in the future.
Environmental Justice for All - Section #31
This section focuses on the global issue of environmental justice: inequitable environmental burdens. Robert D. Bullard suggests that pollution problems generally target the less affluent and poverty stricken communities of the world. He discusses a series of summits that were held in order to improve the standard of living for people in less wealthy communities. Bullard also looks at specific environmental justice cases, such as Bean versus Southwestern Waste Management. Through a series of examples Bullard is able to emphasize environmental justice issues and their impacts. He presents the triumphs of environmental justice strategies, while displaying the struggles associated with its implementation. Bullard finishes by stating that in order for environmental justice to be achieved, there must be equal protection for impoverished communities, and that all people deserve to be supported and protected from the filth of pollution.
This section was a small portion from a book written by John and Mildred Teal. The introduction begins as a tale of the salt marshes, and is highly descriptive. They describe the differences between a healthy marsh, and a sick marsh, including details such as the odors. There is also a comparison between north and south marshes, and the functionality of people walking on them. Another feature the authors describe is what the marshes look like during high and low tides. John and Mildred go on to emphasize the implications of human exposure to the wetland and marsh ecosystems. They state that humans directly and indirectly harm the wetlands, through ignorant destruction, and through pollution. They also propose that the increase in coastal populations will degrade the wetlands even further. Solutions to maintain the wetlands are offered by the authors, and they state that the wetlands must be preserved almost in entirety if the preservation of the wetlands is to have any real meaning. In reality, the wetlands are more valuable as wetlands than what has become of them.
Ecosystems and Human Well-being - Section #10
This reading follows the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment from 2005. It discusses the fact that in the past 50 years humans have altered ecosystems more than ever before. The assessment identifies three main issues associated with change and the management of the worlds ecosystems. These issues are as follows: 1) Approximately 60% of the ecosystems examined are being degraded or used unsustainably; 2) changes being made in ecosystems are increasing the possibility of nonlinear changes in ecosystems; and 3) the harmful effects of the degradation of ecosystem services are being borne disproportionately by the poor, are contributing to growing inequalities, and can lead to poverty and social conflicts. The assessment shows that there are no simple solutions, however a variety of options to better the sustainable management of ecosystems are available. Through the use of many examples, the assessment addresses the issues surrounding proper ecosystem management, and highlights the changes that are possible in order to improve management systems.
Living Downstream: An Ecologist looks at Cancer and the Environment - Section #28
The following selection is a piece taken from a larger work titled Living Downstream: An Ecologist looks at Cancer and the Environment, by Sandra Steingraber. In this small section, Steingraber talks about her family and the variety of cancer types that several of her family members were diagnosed with. She presents that humans are susceptible to their environments, and that one of the greatest causes of cancer is environmental exposure. Personal stories and connections bring Steingrabers words to life. As well, the quality of detail and description draw the reader into her journey, allowing them to gain a true sense of her experiences. Steingraber also discusses information on isolated cancer cases, but was unable to find information on a combination of contaminants or encounters. She goes on to talk about cancer's environmental roots, stating that societies are focused on genes being a major cause of cancer, instead of environments. The piece finishes off by looking at the principle of the least toxic alternative: an approach that presumes toxic substances will not be used while other options are available. The reader is able to obtain a clear idea of Steingrabers experiences and views from this short section of the her book.
Our Stolen Future - Section #29
This article from the textbook focuses on how chemicals have become a part of the human's environment and are ultimately becoming a part of their bodies. The authors state that people forget that their well-being is rooted in natural systems, since people live in man-made landscapes. The article compares the concept of synthetic chemical testing on animals to the actual effects of these chemicals on humans. The notion is presented that animal testing is inaccurate since test animals are not humans. The authors prove this idea with evidence showing that hormone disruptor's that threaten animals pose the same threat on human populations. The article demonstrates that animal studies provide an outlet for identifying and investigating what might occur in humans. It also displays that animal studies can deliver early warnings about the serious implications of synthetic chemicals. Overall, this article was well organized and factual, and offered an in-depth look into the issues that synthetic chemicals pose on societies today and in the future.
Environmental Justice for All - Section #31
This section focuses on the global issue of environmental justice: inequitable environmental burdens. Robert D. Bullard suggests that pollution problems generally target the less affluent and poverty stricken communities of the world. He discusses a series of summits that were held in order to improve the standard of living for people in less wealthy communities. Bullard also looks at specific environmental justice cases, such as Bean versus Southwestern Waste Management. Through a series of examples Bullard is able to emphasize environmental justice issues and their impacts. He presents the triumphs of environmental justice strategies, while displaying the struggles associated with its implementation. Bullard finishes by stating that in order for environmental justice to be achieved, there must be equal protection for impoverished communities, and that all people deserve to be supported and protected from the filth of pollution.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Blog Reflections Blog #3
Question #1: Consider your food system... What do you like about it? What do you dislike?
This section of the course has been super interesting for me. For many years now I have eaten organic, and in the past year now have been trying to eat local foods as much as possible. I did not think of my food in the concept of a food system before this point, and it has been a great way to further my awareness of what I am eating.
There are so many things that I not only like, but love about my food and where it comes from. I think that it has a real earthy taste, which makes me feel more connected to the land. I enjoy that I am supporting local farmers and markets instead of supporting large corporations. I also feel good about taking the environment into consideration when I purchase food that is local and organic. For me it is fun to be connected to my food and create great tasting dishes from it.
There are a few dislikes I have regarding my food system. I often get discouraged by people who see eating organic and local as a fad, or a trend. For me eating this food is something I am proud of and when people pose a stigma on the product it makes me angry. Another dislike would be the cost. I do find that it costs a little bit more then conventional food, but this is something that I am willing to deal with, since I believe the products are worth the price. One thing that I had not considered prior to the class was the impacts of organic food brought in from other parts of the world. This is a concern for me because I do not want to create a large impact; it is one of the many reasons that I eat organic food. Now I will be more conscious about where my organic food is coming from, and try to stay as local as possible.
Overall, I am really invested and happy to be a part of the food system that I am in. Like anything, there is always room for improvement, and I am willing to make changes accordingly. Organic and local products are a great way to indulge and create wonderful food options.
Other Comments
I was amused by the "Meatrix" video we watched in class. I felt as though this was a good way to highlight the issues in the farming industry by adding humour. It was also great to learn about the "Cool Local Food Initiatives" that I can become involved in. I am already familiar with Fresh Options Organic Delivery (F.O.O.D.) and learning about some other organizations was awesome. Another positive thing I took from class was the Fort Whyte Farms. I was not aware that there were farms there, and it is cool to see it at such a local scale. Finally, learning about the concept of country food was super interesting. I enjoyed hearing about my classmates' personal experiences. The concept of country food seems to stretch so far, and connect with a lot of people.
This section of the course has been super interesting for me. For many years now I have eaten organic, and in the past year now have been trying to eat local foods as much as possible. I did not think of my food in the concept of a food system before this point, and it has been a great way to further my awareness of what I am eating.
There are so many things that I not only like, but love about my food and where it comes from. I think that it has a real earthy taste, which makes me feel more connected to the land. I enjoy that I am supporting local farmers and markets instead of supporting large corporations. I also feel good about taking the environment into consideration when I purchase food that is local and organic. For me it is fun to be connected to my food and create great tasting dishes from it.
There are a few dislikes I have regarding my food system. I often get discouraged by people who see eating organic and local as a fad, or a trend. For me eating this food is something I am proud of and when people pose a stigma on the product it makes me angry. Another dislike would be the cost. I do find that it costs a little bit more then conventional food, but this is something that I am willing to deal with, since I believe the products are worth the price. One thing that I had not considered prior to the class was the impacts of organic food brought in from other parts of the world. This is a concern for me because I do not want to create a large impact; it is one of the many reasons that I eat organic food. Now I will be more conscious about where my organic food is coming from, and try to stay as local as possible.
Overall, I am really invested and happy to be a part of the food system that I am in. Like anything, there is always room for improvement, and I am willing to make changes accordingly. Organic and local products are a great way to indulge and create wonderful food options.
Other Comments
I was amused by the "Meatrix" video we watched in class. I felt as though this was a good way to highlight the issues in the farming industry by adding humour. It was also great to learn about the "Cool Local Food Initiatives" that I can become involved in. I am already familiar with Fresh Options Organic Delivery (F.O.O.D.) and learning about some other organizations was awesome. Another positive thing I took from class was the Fort Whyte Farms. I was not aware that there were farms there, and it is cool to see it at such a local scale. Finally, learning about the concept of country food was super interesting. I enjoyed hearing about my classmates' personal experiences. The concept of country food seems to stretch so far, and connect with a lot of people.
Ted Talk: How Food Shapes Our Cities / Carolyn Steel - Activities Blog #3
Summary
This Ted Talk focuses on the evolution of food in cities and how societies are currently facing a disadvantage. It highlights the fact that people take their food for granted, not realizing the processes that make up their food systems. Speaker Carolyn Steel uses humour and photos to capture the attention of the audience. She emphasizes serious issues that have developed as a result of the current food systems. Cities, urbanism, and the consumption of meat, are all identified as issues that already exist and will continue to increase if the Western diet sustains. Steel compares the impacts of old world food systems with food systems today. In the past, food was based on a local level, and did not have to travel far to make it to market. People would visit markets daily to get food, but also to interact and socialize with others in the community. Another aspect of the market was the real connection to the food; for example, animals would be bought alive and then prepared at home. Today people have a limited connection to their food. It is often bought frozen at the grocery store, and then heated up in the microwave. Steel exposes that the Western diet in unsustainable, and will not be practical for much longer. Her solution for the damaged food systems of today is to rethink the way food shapes society, and this can allow food to shape the world.
My Impressions
I really enjoyed watching this video. I think that Carolyn Steel did a great job of presenting the issues of current food systems and providing realistic solutions. I liked her use of humour throughout the talk, and I feel as though it adds a sense of connection to the speaker. I found it interesting to learn more about the details of old world food systems. I was already aware of the use and purpose of markets in the past, but Steel was able to reveal fascinating facts about street names and locations based on the type of markets present in the area. The views proposed by Steel were very true, and I agree that people need to have a connection with their food and where it comes from. I think that it is important to be involved in our food systems and to value what we have. Overall, I thoroughly appreciated the messages and wisdom of this video.
This Ted Talk focuses on the evolution of food in cities and how societies are currently facing a disadvantage. It highlights the fact that people take their food for granted, not realizing the processes that make up their food systems. Speaker Carolyn Steel uses humour and photos to capture the attention of the audience. She emphasizes serious issues that have developed as a result of the current food systems. Cities, urbanism, and the consumption of meat, are all identified as issues that already exist and will continue to increase if the Western diet sustains. Steel compares the impacts of old world food systems with food systems today. In the past, food was based on a local level, and did not have to travel far to make it to market. People would visit markets daily to get food, but also to interact and socialize with others in the community. Another aspect of the market was the real connection to the food; for example, animals would be bought alive and then prepared at home. Today people have a limited connection to their food. It is often bought frozen at the grocery store, and then heated up in the microwave. Steel exposes that the Western diet in unsustainable, and will not be practical for much longer. Her solution for the damaged food systems of today is to rethink the way food shapes society, and this can allow food to shape the world.
My Impressions
I really enjoyed watching this video. I think that Carolyn Steel did a great job of presenting the issues of current food systems and providing realistic solutions. I liked her use of humour throughout the talk, and I feel as though it adds a sense of connection to the speaker. I found it interesting to learn more about the details of old world food systems. I was already aware of the use and purpose of markets in the past, but Steel was able to reveal fascinating facts about street names and locations based on the type of markets present in the area. The views proposed by Steel were very true, and I agree that people need to have a connection with their food and where it comes from. I think that it is important to be involved in our food systems and to value what we have. Overall, I thoroughly appreciated the messages and wisdom of this video.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Reading Summaries Blog #3
Human Domination of Earth's Ecosystems - Section #9
This section focuses on the impacts that humans generate on ecosystems, including land, oceans, and biogeochemical cycles. It centers around the idea of human functions causing change on the earth, resulting in a loss of biodiversity. This piece argues that the most substantial human change to the earth is land transformation, which ultimately influences all other aspects of the land system. Land transformation is linked to local and regional levels of climate change. The authors suggest that land transformation needs to be looked at on a broad scale in order to promote positive land transformation practices. Ocean systems are also touched on, pointing out the large scale and destructive practices of the fishing industry. Fisheries often fish predator species, or over fish the resources, which both lead to imbalances in marine ecosystems. This reading emphasizes that humans are responsible for the impacts on earth's ecosystems, and in a sense humans are holding the planet's future in their hands. Finally, the reading points out that the negative results from human activities are issues that society needs to confront now and efficiently.
Could Food Shortages Bring Down Civilization? - Section #25
This article from the textbook discusses the risks of food shortages on a variety of levels, while looking at the impacts of environmental decline and the lack of intention to restore the environment. Author Lester Brown highlights the case of failing states (nations), determining that states fail when the national government cannot provide fundamental security. Brown emphasizes that when a state fails it becomes increasingly dangerous since they threaten political stability on both a local and global scale. When a state fails there is often an increase in terrorism, drug use and trafficking, weapon distribution, and refugees. The case of a failed state is tied to the issue of food shortages. When a state or nation cannot produce or import enough food for its people then it begins to loose stability. Also related is the inflation of food prices, if a food product increases in price less wealthy states cannot afford to buy, and therefore leads to the case of a failed state. Another issue that Brown focuses on is the consumption of freshwater for irrigation purposes. He points out that water is being depleted and cannot be replenished quick enough to sustain food systems in today's world. Through a series of shocking examples Brown is able to emphasize the negative impacts of modern food production and how these practices are not sustainable. Ultimately, Brown provides a variety of solutions that can help reduce the impacts of shortages for the future.
Women's Indigenous Knowledge and Biodiversity Conservation - Section #37
This reading is a small portion taken from a larger compilation by author Vandana Shiva. Shiva identifies the connection between women and diversity, emphasizing that both enable each other. A part of this reading focuses on the evolution of monocultures and uniform production, which Shiva argues hinder biodiversity. She makes it clear that nature's diversity is not accepted, and therefore it is exploited and degraded. Shiva uses examples to compliment her arguments, without creating a bias opinion. A strong example that she uses is the displacement of indigenous people in third world nations through the practices of progressiveness and technology. A Westernized view is being pushed on these groups and they are not being given the option to accept it or decline it. Instead they are stripped of their rights and forced to adapt to a foreign lifestyle. Shiva highlights that it is the women in indigenous tribes that maintain the biodiversity of the natural world, contributing to dairy, forestry, and plant and food production. Since women's values are being disregarded the biodiversity is disregarded as well. Shiva suggests that to preserve biodiversity women must be valued, and for women to be valued biodiversity must be preserved.
This section focuses on the impacts that humans generate on ecosystems, including land, oceans, and biogeochemical cycles. It centers around the idea of human functions causing change on the earth, resulting in a loss of biodiversity. This piece argues that the most substantial human change to the earth is land transformation, which ultimately influences all other aspects of the land system. Land transformation is linked to local and regional levels of climate change. The authors suggest that land transformation needs to be looked at on a broad scale in order to promote positive land transformation practices. Ocean systems are also touched on, pointing out the large scale and destructive practices of the fishing industry. Fisheries often fish predator species, or over fish the resources, which both lead to imbalances in marine ecosystems. This reading emphasizes that humans are responsible for the impacts on earth's ecosystems, and in a sense humans are holding the planet's future in their hands. Finally, the reading points out that the negative results from human activities are issues that society needs to confront now and efficiently.
Could Food Shortages Bring Down Civilization? - Section #25
This article from the textbook discusses the risks of food shortages on a variety of levels, while looking at the impacts of environmental decline and the lack of intention to restore the environment. Author Lester Brown highlights the case of failing states (nations), determining that states fail when the national government cannot provide fundamental security. Brown emphasizes that when a state fails it becomes increasingly dangerous since they threaten political stability on both a local and global scale. When a state fails there is often an increase in terrorism, drug use and trafficking, weapon distribution, and refugees. The case of a failed state is tied to the issue of food shortages. When a state or nation cannot produce or import enough food for its people then it begins to loose stability. Also related is the inflation of food prices, if a food product increases in price less wealthy states cannot afford to buy, and therefore leads to the case of a failed state. Another issue that Brown focuses on is the consumption of freshwater for irrigation purposes. He points out that water is being depleted and cannot be replenished quick enough to sustain food systems in today's world. Through a series of shocking examples Brown is able to emphasize the negative impacts of modern food production and how these practices are not sustainable. Ultimately, Brown provides a variety of solutions that can help reduce the impacts of shortages for the future.
Women's Indigenous Knowledge and Biodiversity Conservation - Section #37
This reading is a small portion taken from a larger compilation by author Vandana Shiva. Shiva identifies the connection between women and diversity, emphasizing that both enable each other. A part of this reading focuses on the evolution of monocultures and uniform production, which Shiva argues hinder biodiversity. She makes it clear that nature's diversity is not accepted, and therefore it is exploited and degraded. Shiva uses examples to compliment her arguments, without creating a bias opinion. A strong example that she uses is the displacement of indigenous people in third world nations through the practices of progressiveness and technology. A Westernized view is being pushed on these groups and they are not being given the option to accept it or decline it. Instead they are stripped of their rights and forced to adapt to a foreign lifestyle. Shiva highlights that it is the women in indigenous tribes that maintain the biodiversity of the natural world, contributing to dairy, forestry, and plant and food production. Since women's values are being disregarded the biodiversity is disregarded as well. Shiva suggests that to preserve biodiversity women must be valued, and for women to be valued biodiversity must be preserved.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Blog Reflections Blog #2
Question #1: Can parks meet its dual mandate of access and protection?
I do not believe that the dual mandate is a possibility. I feel as though by allowing access to parks, where wildlife and natural landscapes exist, degradation will occur. Although some people are respectful of parks and the wildlife that is present, there is a large portion of people who abuse these natural places. To me the protection of parks is far more important than the access. Unfortunately, I am not sure that this is an option since there is such high demand from people to experience natural places and see wildlife in its natural environment.
Question #2: How can this be achieved in Wapusk?
If protection of the natural environment in Wapusk is to continue then access should not be allowed. Currently, limited access is granted on certain conditions, but to some extent this still poses a strain on the natural environment. In order to preserve Wapusk, limited access must be sustained. An even better solution would be no access to any point of the park.
Question #3: What future would you like to see for the Alberta Tar Sands?
My opinion for the future of the tar sands is to stop development entirely. The Tar Sands are a toxic project that degrade the natural environment, and waste valuable resources such as water. I see no point in putting more resources into a project that does not offer an equal or better return. To me the negative factors far exceed the positive ones. I feel as though the money could be spent on the development of sustainable energy sources that we will have to depend on in our near future. Another factor that fuels my opinion is the increased health risks of the people who reside near the tar sands and the tailings ponds. It is not a healthy environment to be living near or working in. I believe that the Canadian government needs to take responsibility and set an example by stopping production of the tar sands. If a change like this can occur I believe it will attract better opportunities for Canada than the fight over our dirty oil.
Other Comments
On a lighter note, I really enjoyed watching the film Fresh in class this week. I think that it gives a really honest look into the farming industry and emphasizes the negative impacts of conventional farming. I myself already eat organic and local foods, but found it interesting to think of other peoples reactions in the class. While watching this film I found a feeling of anger inside me due to the treatment of the animals and the ignorance of people in the industry. I feel as though this film, and the book I read for the position paper, The Value of Nothing, complimented each other well and followed many of the same concepts. Overall, I hope that this film can continue to make an impact on others as it has on me.
I do not believe that the dual mandate is a possibility. I feel as though by allowing access to parks, where wildlife and natural landscapes exist, degradation will occur. Although some people are respectful of parks and the wildlife that is present, there is a large portion of people who abuse these natural places. To me the protection of parks is far more important than the access. Unfortunately, I am not sure that this is an option since there is such high demand from people to experience natural places and see wildlife in its natural environment.
Question #2: How can this be achieved in Wapusk?
If protection of the natural environment in Wapusk is to continue then access should not be allowed. Currently, limited access is granted on certain conditions, but to some extent this still poses a strain on the natural environment. In order to preserve Wapusk, limited access must be sustained. An even better solution would be no access to any point of the park.
Question #3: What future would you like to see for the Alberta Tar Sands?
My opinion for the future of the tar sands is to stop development entirely. The Tar Sands are a toxic project that degrade the natural environment, and waste valuable resources such as water. I see no point in putting more resources into a project that does not offer an equal or better return. To me the negative factors far exceed the positive ones. I feel as though the money could be spent on the development of sustainable energy sources that we will have to depend on in our near future. Another factor that fuels my opinion is the increased health risks of the people who reside near the tar sands and the tailings ponds. It is not a healthy environment to be living near or working in. I believe that the Canadian government needs to take responsibility and set an example by stopping production of the tar sands. If a change like this can occur I believe it will attract better opportunities for Canada than the fight over our dirty oil.
Other Comments
On a lighter note, I really enjoyed watching the film Fresh in class this week. I think that it gives a really honest look into the farming industry and emphasizes the negative impacts of conventional farming. I myself already eat organic and local foods, but found it interesting to think of other peoples reactions in the class. While watching this film I found a feeling of anger inside me due to the treatment of the animals and the ignorance of people in the industry. I feel as though this film, and the book I read for the position paper, The Value of Nothing, complimented each other well and followed many of the same concepts. Overall, I hope that this film can continue to make an impact on others as it has on me.
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