Ecological Food Footprint October 25, 2010
Posted by alexh1992 in Assignment 5.add a comment
I believe that the purpose of this post is to see how diets with varying animal and plant consumption have consume different ecologically equivalent calories.
An ecological footprint is how many Earth’s it takes to maintain the lifestyle of a person.
Energy and nutrients flow throughout ecosystems from producers to plants to primary consumers to secondary consumers to tertiary consumers to decomposers and then back to producers again.
http://alaska.fws.gov/fire/role/unit1/images/I-6.jpg
| Diet | Source of Calories | Number of Calories | Ecologically Equivalent Calories | Total Ecologically Equivalent Calories |
| 100% Plant
0% Animal |
Plant
Animal |
2,000
0 |
2,000
0 |
2,000 |
| 90% Plant
10% Animal |
Plant
Animal |
1,800
200 |
1,800
2,000 |
3,800 |
| 50% Plant
50% Animal |
Plant
Animal |
1,000
1,000 |
1,000
10,000 |
11,000 |
| 0% Plant
100% Animal |
Plant
Animal |
0
2000 |
0
20,000 |
20,000 |
For a diet that had a consumption of 100% plant and 0% animal for a year, it would take 730,000 ecologically equivalent calories to support them for a year. For a diet that had a consumption of 90% plant and 10% animal for a year, it would take 1,387,000 ecologically equivalent calories to support them for a year. For a diet that had a consumption of 50% plant and 50% animal for a year, it would take 4,015,000 ecologically equivalent calories to support them for a year. For a diet that had a consumption of 0% plant and 100% animal for a year, it would take 7,300,000 ecologically equivalent calories to support them for a year.
The diet of someone who only consumes plant products is double to that of someone who only consumes animal products. One who consumes as little at 10% of animal calories additionally consumes 1,800 ecologically equivalent calories.
I believe that about 10% of my calorie consumption comes from animals. Since my animal consumption is about 10% and my plant consumption is about 90%, my total ecologically equivalent calories is 3,800. If I were a vegetarian I would consume 200 more ecologically equivalent calories compared to my present diet.
My Diet
AND
http://alaska.fws.gov/fire/role/unit1/images/I-6.jpg http://www.faqs.org/photodict/photofiles/list/408/777meat.jpg
A global problem is providing enough food for the growing human population. One contributing factor is “poor crop production” (Miller 2010). This is especially a problem in China because while it has 20% of the world’s population, it’s arable land is only 6%; also, this ratio will steepen as population grows (Miller 2010). It is unfortunate that populations of poorer nations are developing an American diet (a diet rich in animal protein and fat) because these cravings cannot be supported. East Africa for example suffers from “land and water constraints, underinvestment in rural infrastructure and agriculture, lack of access to fertilizer and irrigation, trade policies, and weather disruptions” which attribute to extremely low food production (Dorélien 2008).
http://www.fas.usda.gov/pecad2/highlights/2002/01/somalia/pics/somalia_2001a.gif
References
1. Dorélien, Audrey. Population’s Role in the Current Food Crisis: Focus on East Africa. Retrieved October 25, 2010 from http://www.prb.org/Articles/2008/foodsecurityeastafrica.aspx
2. Miller, C.W. Food Shortages, Fresh Water Shortages, Population Growth, Real Serious Bubbles. Retrieved October 25, 2010 from
“http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5714032/food_shortages_fresh_water_shortages_pg2.html?cat=3
Thermoregulation of Ursus Maritimus October 18, 2010
Posted by alexh1992 in Assignment 4.3 comments
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SpH7EL7jLqU/Su7CQRoE-JI/AAAAAAAAAFI/E-GUWKRtwnM/s400/cute+baby.jpg
Basic Biology of Ursus Maritimus
The purpose of this assignment is to research a species that lives in an extreme environment and see how they use thermoregulation to maintain a stable body temperature.
Ursus Maritimus more commonly known as the polar bear lives “throughout the circumpolar Arctic on ice-covered waters, from Canada, to Norway, parts of the US, the former USSR and Greenland (Denmark)” (Polar Bear (Ursus Maritimus) 2006). Therefore, they live the tundra. Molles (2010) states that tundras experience temperatures ranging from -30º C to 32º C and receive 200 to 600 mm of precipitation annually; however, because of the average temperature is so low, the precipitation exceeds the evaporation making up for the low amount of precipitation (p. 36). Therefore, there is plenty of water for polar bears. During some periods, they are actually forced onto land waiting for winter and new ice because the old ice has melted (Molles p. 36).
http://www.alaska-in-pictures.com/data/media/2/cute-polar-bear-family_8055.jpg
Polar bears must compensate given their extreme environment. This is done by thermoregulation. It is necessary for polar bears to thermoregulate because they live in extremely frigid temperatures, walk on snow, and swim in freezing water (Øritsland 1974).
Thermoregulation of Ursus Maritimus in Terms of K. Schmidt- Nielsen’s Heat Gain/Heat Loss Equation, H(s) = H(m) +/- H(cd) +/- H(cv) +/- H(rd) – H(e)
Polar bears are able to control their body temperature in a variety of ways. Referring to K. Schmidt- Nielsen’s heat gain/heat loss equation, polar bears rely on H(cd) and H(cv) to maintain their body temperature. This occurs because they have “a pair of thin muscle sheets on the torso [that] facilitates heat dissipation” (Øritsland 1974). Water has the ability to absorb heat 3,000 times that of air (Molles p. 115). Therefore, polar bears must find ways to survive in freezing waters. When polar bears swim they rely on their “subcutaneous fat and peripheral muscles” to insulate themselves, which helps prevent heat loss through H(cd) (Øritsland 1974).
http://library.thinkquest.org/08aug/01212/swim.jpg
The snow, which polar bears walk on, provides another possibility for heat loss through H(cd). However, the foot pads of the bears have major blood vessels running through them that “[control] the blood supply to the pad surface” which in turn conserves heat (Øritsland 1974). Polar bears also take advantage of their black skin that preserves heat through H(rd) (Polar Bear 2010). Additionally, they have their white coat of fur. However, this hair does not protect polar bears from chilly winds; therefore, there is negative H(cv). Polar bears counteract this with “[digging] shelters in snow banks and [curling] up in a tight ball” (Home Range and Cold Climate 2010).
http://cache.boston.com/resize/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2010/04/09/1270826486_0346/539w.jpg
Even though polar bears live in a rough environment, they have many adaptations to prevent heat loss and preserve heat gain. Maintaining a stable body temperature is important for polar bears because most species in general “perform best in a fairly narrow range of temperatures” (Molles p.104). All functions of organisms rely on chemical reactions. Enzymes are a type of protein, which are sensitive to temperature, that are needed to regulate chemical reactions. There is a specific temperature that is ideal for reactions and therefore peak performance (Molles p.105). For this reason, temperature regulation in polar bears is extremely crucial.
References
1. Polar Bear (Ursus Maritimus) (2006). Retrieved October 18, 2010 from http://www.arkive.org/polar-bear/ursus-maritimus/#text=RangeHabitat.
2. Molles, M.C. (2010). Ecology. Concepts and Applications. 5th Ed. NY: McGraw-Hill.
3. Øritsland, N. A. (1974). Radiative Surface Temperatures of the Polar Bear (1974). Jstor. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/1379018.
4. Polar Bear (n.d.). Retrieved October 18, 2010 from http://www.thebigzoo.com/Animals/Polar_Bear.asp.
5. Home Range and Cold Climate (2010). Retrieved from http://www.polarbearsinternational.org/polar-bears/bear-essentials-polar-style/adaptation/home-range-and-cold-climate.
Overfishing, Damming, and Water Scarcity October 11, 2010
Posted by alexh1992 in Assignment 3.5 comments
A.
How Global Warming Affects the Ocean
Global warming is currently affecting many parts of the Earth. Here, I specifically discuss how oceans are affected by global warming while using Elizabeth Kolbert’s article, A Darkening Sea as a reference (http://www.pacificviews.org/weblog/archives/002334.html). A major consequence of global warming on oceans is acidification. This process is occurring because of the large quantity of carbon dioxide that the ocean is absorbing. Therefore, the pH is decreasing. In the past, the ocean and the atmosphere have exchanged gases at an equal rate. However, now the ocean is absorbing more carbon dioxide than it is releasing. Not only is this undertaking irreversible, but also the ocean would still absorb carbon dioxide to reach a new equilibrium even if the release of carbon dioxide were able to cease. What is still not known is how life will react to this acidification.
http://graphics.stanford.edu/courses/cs348b-competition/cs348b-01/ocean_scenes/ocean2.gif
Problems and Prevention of Overfishing
Humans have an immense negative influence on oceans. One particular thing humans are guilty of is overfishing.
There are a variety of serious problems that result from overfishing (Kraycar http://web.bryant.edu/~langlois/coastal/overfishingeffects.htm). One is the loss of genetic diversity in an ocean. The issue with this is that the ability of a population to adapt to its environment greatly decreases. This can eventually lead to the extinctions of numerous species of fish. Consequently, the extinction of fish is another dilemma. In Molles’ Ecology, he voices “marine fish populations, which once seemed inexhaustible, are now all but gone and fishing fleets sit idle in ports all over the world” (Molles pp. 51). Coral reefs are also being affected by overfishing because there is now a superfluity of algae that is overwhelming them (Kraycar). Lastly, overfishing is also negatively influencing the diet of humans (Kraycar). A fifth of the human population relies on fish as a protein source. If overfishing continues to magnify, humans will have to find other accommodations for protein. Although there are many detrimental repercussions of overfishing, there are countless techniques to prevent it.
http://marinebio.org/i/bycatch.jpg
Being informed is one way to inhibit overfishing. For example, consumers and buyers need to know if the fish they are eating/buying are endangered (here is a list of fish that should be avoided http://www.fishonline.org/advice/avoid/). Another way to avoid overfishing is enforcing laws (countries have laws, but they are not enforced) about it (http://www.coral.org/node/130). The creation of more marina patrol areas can be utilized to watch for illegal fishing. Following the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Code of Conduct, which “has helped modify national fisheries laws by creating a Code of Conduct in cooperation with governments, NGOs, and industry in support of sustainable aquaculture, fisheries operations, fisheries management, fish processing, and trade” can additionally prohibit overfishing (http://www.coral.org/node/130). Finally, using safe fishing methods such as the “dolphin safe” method (specific for fishing tuna) to catch fish to avoid the collateral damage of other fish is again another strategy to put overfishing to a halt (http://www.allaboutwildlife.com/dolphins-whales/the-disturbing-facts-about-dolphin-safe-tuna/4298).
http://www.cottagesrus.com/images/marine%20patrol.jpg
Effects of Damming Rivers (specifically the Tigris and Euphrates)
Rivers have provided humans with “commerce, transportation, irrigation, and waste disposal” extensively throughout history (Molles pp. 68). Currently, humans are taking advantage of rivers. Turkey is specifically violating the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Turkey has built 22 dams (i.e. Ataturk, Karakaya, and Keban) and 19 power plants “to [alleviate] Turkey’s electricity and agriculture needs” (http://www1.american.edu/ted/ice/tigris.htm). This is causing enormous tension with Syria, Iran, and Iraq because they also rely on the Tigris and Euphrates. However, Turkey controls most of the headwaters; inevitably, they have the upper hand in this situation. Not only is there political tension, but also there are negative ecological effects with the Tigris and Euphrates: elimination of the natural flow, alteration of temperatures, and disruption of the movement of migratory fish (Molles pp. 68). Damming a river undeniably creates a change in flow rate. This alteration “[results] in a flow rate that has a smaller range of values and peaks that occur at times related to need rather than the dictates of nature” (http://science.jrank.org/pages/1942/Dams-Impact-dams.html). This can eventually lead to a stop of flow beneath the dam completely. Another issue is temperature. Naturally, rivers change temperatures with the seasons. However, with dams temperature does not vary. Lastly, migratory fish are also suffering from the building of dams. This disruption is eliminating fish populations (http://www.ctriver.org/programs/restoration/fish_in_trouble/index.html).
http://archive.arabnews.com/2007/11/td1.jpg
B.
Water Scarcity
I have not personally been victim of a water drought. However, I imagine that my day-to-day activities would have to be adjusted. For example, I would not take excessively long showers nor leave the water running while washing dishes. I would also use rain barrels. I would consciously think about my water usage in order to conserve as much water possible. However, even if one was not undergoing water scarcity, I think that water should not be treated with superfluity in order to be ecological friendly. Though, if I were to experience water scarcity, I believe it would be because humans polluted my water supply that I relied on.
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/home-garden/rainbarrels.jpg
Societies do exist where water scarcity is a way of life. This can be because of economic and physical water scarcity. Either societies cannot afford the water (even if there is an abundant supply), or demographically there is not a sufficient water source for a society (http://maps.grida.no/go/graphic/areas-of-physical-and-economic-water-scarcity). However, despite water scarcity, some people choose to live in dry climates. For example, molds and dust mites thrive better in wetter climates versus dry climates (http://www.acaai.org/patients/resources/allergies/Pages/house-dust-allergy.aspx). Therefore, people with serious allergy conditions (i.e. chronic sinusitis) may choose to live in dry biomes to benefit their health.
Total World Population and Average World per Capita Water Availability
The total world population is predicted to increase by about 11,667 people from 1950 to 2050. The average world per capita water availability is predicted to decrease by 12,500 from 1950 to 2050.
Total world population and average world per capita water availability are inversely proportional to one another (as total world population increases, average world per capita water availability decreases).
The world population continues to climb each year because society is creating means to live longer (i.e. medicine, diet, lifestyle, ect.). Water is one of the resources that humans need for survival. However, there is a fixed amount of water available to humans. Therefore, the demand for water rises as the population grows.
If the predictions for world population growth and per capita water availability come true, there could possibly be more societies where people have to live with water scarcity.
http://whyfiles.org/131fresh_water/images/world_water.gif
Coordinates, Google Earth, and Ecological Footprints October 3, 2010
Posted by alexh1992 in Assignment 2.6 comments
The purpose of this assignment is to make us aware of how the economy affects the ecological footprint of countries. Also, it is to show us how our ecological footprint compares to people of our country and to other countries.
A.
The coordinates of The White Tower of Thessaloniki, Greece are 40° 38′ N, and 22° 56′ E.
The coordinates of St. Mary’s Episcopal School (my primary school) are 37° 07′ N, and 89° 54′ W.
The biome that corresponds to Memphis, TN would be Temperate Grasslands. Molles’ Ecology says that “winters in temperate grasslands are generally cold and summers are hot.” I completely agree with that statement. The variables that determine the biome in which I live are precipiation, termperature, and topography. The climate of temperate grasslands usually has around 300 and 1,000 mm of precipitation each year. During the summer is when they receive the most rainfall. Although they are not as dry as deserts, they can experience droughts for up to several years. Though Memphis is considered a temperate grassland, it always undergoes more than plenty of rain each season. Therefore, I do not think the “drought” categorization applies to Memphis because it receives 1338.9 mm of precipitation annually (according to http://www.rssweather.com/climate/Tennessee/Memphis/).
B.
| Country | Ecological Footprint (EF) (hectares per person) | Proportion relative to world average | Proportion relative to world area available | Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita –
(in PPP dollar) (obtain these data from Globalis) |
| Bangladesh | 0.5 | 0.22 | 0.28 | 1700 |
| Colombia | 1.3 | 0.58 | 0.73
(1.3/1.78) |
6370 |
| Mexico | 2.6 | 1.17 | 1.27 | 8970 |
| Sweden | 6.1 | 2.74 | 3.43 | 26050 |
| United Arab Emirates | 9.9 | 4.4 | 5.56 | 18250 |
| Thailand | 1.4 | 0.63 | 0.79 | 7010 |
| United States | 9.5 | 4.26 | 5.34 | 35750 |
| World Average | 2.23 | 1.0
(2.23/2.23) |
1.25
(2.23/1.78) |
leave this cell empty |
| Philippines
(Asia) |
1.2 | 0.54 | 0.67 | 4170 |
| Argentina (Americas) | 2.6 | 1.17 | 1.46 | 10880 |
| Zambia
(Africa) |
0.8 | 0.36 | 0.45 | 840 |
| Czech Republic(Europe) | 5 | 2.24 | 2.81 | 15780 |
| Your personal footprint | 3.1 | 1.39 | 1.74 | leave this cell empty |
I believe that the ecological footprint of Bangladesh is so small because it is extremely overpopulated and has a very high poverty rate. These factors do not allow Bangladesh to become very developed and therefore their ecological footprint is very small. On the other hand, the United States has an extremely large ecological footprint. I believe this is true because it is such a highly developed country in: energy, technology, and transportation. I conclude that average per capita income affects ecological footprints with a directly proportional relationship because as average per capita income for each country rises so does their ecological footprint.
My ecological footprint is little less than a third of the average person in the United States. Even though my footprint is about half the footprint that each Swedish person leaves, it is about three times that of a person who lives in Bangladesh and also the Philippines. My ecological footprint is not terrible, but it can still be improved. I can do this by using more energy efficient appliances, eating more organic foods, and by taking buses/trains instead of planes for short distances.
