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Can humans survive in deep space? The Pancosmorio theory suggests the complexity of maintaining gravity, oxygen, water, agriculture, and waste. Co-authored by Morgan and Lee Irons, this theory proposes recreating Earth's ecological networks to ensure sustainability in space settlements. Without self-restoring, Earth-like ecosystems, space missions fail. The first key is gravity, followed by oxygen and energy. Morgan Irons' research is funded by the National Science Foundation, and she is a graduate research fellow at the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability and a fellow at Cornell's Carl Sagan Institute.
Indigenous peoples have long been recognized as effective stewards of the natural environment. Their knowledge and practices for managing natural resources sustainably offer valuable lessons for modern resource management. In this write-up, we explore the contributions of leading academics and the lessons learned from indigenous communities around the world. One example of indigenous knowledge in action is the agroforestry systems used by the Bribri people in Costa Rica. These systems combine fruit trees, timber trees, and crops to create a sustainable and diverse food source. The Bribri people have used this method for centuries, and it has been recognized by the United Nations as a model for sustainable agriculture. Another example comes from Australia, where the Yolngu people have been using fire management practices for thousands of years to maintain the health of their ecosystems. Their knowledge has been incorporated into modern fire management strategies, leading to better outcomes for both the environment and the people who live in these areas. Leading academics in the field, such as Robin Kimmerer and Winona LaDuke, have been working to bridge the gap between indigenous and Western scientific knowledge. Kimmerer, a botanist and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, has written extensively on the importance of indigenous knowledge in ecological restoration. LaDuke, a renowned environmental activist and member of the Ojibwe Nation, has worked to promote sustainable energy and agriculture in indigenous communities. By learning from indigenous knowledge and practices, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and for the planet.
The UN's Decade on Ecosystem Restoration calls for urgent action to restore freshwater ecosystems. A recent study of Australian stream management highlights the need for collaborative, participatory, and adaptive nature-based solutions. Discover how building communities of practice, implementing nature-based solutions, and allocating more resources for adaptive management can help achieve global goals for ecosystem restoration.
Are you passionate about the environment and curious about the impact of climate change on our planet? Then a degree in Climate Science could be the perfect fit for you! Climate Science is an exciting and rapidly evolving field that encompasses a range of disciplines, from atmospheric science to ecology and beyond. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Climate Science is the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. As a Climate Scientist, you'll be at the forefront of efforts to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change. You'll study everything from the causes and consequences of global warming to the ways in which we can reduce our carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations. There are countless fascinating areas of research within the field of Climate Science. For example, you might study the impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities or investigate the ways in which climate change is affecting agriculture and food security around the world. You might also explore the latest innovations in renewable energy technology or examine the role of policy and advocacy in shaping global climate action. At the undergraduate level, students typically take a range of modules that cover the fundamentals of Climate Science, including meteorology, oceanography, and geology. As you progress through your degree, you'll have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as climate modeling, climate policy, or environmental management. And with a degree in Climate Science, you'll be well-equipped to pursue a range of exciting careers in fields such as environmental consulting, renewable energy, or climate policy. Some of the most exciting potential employers for Climate Science graduates include government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as well as private-sector companies like Tesla and Google. And with the growing urgency of the climate crisis, there's never been a better time to pursue a career in this field. To succeed in Climate Science, you'll need to be curious, analytical, and passionate about making a difference in the world. Strong skills in math and science are also essential, as is a deep interest in the natural world and a commitment to sustainability. So if you're ready to take on one of the most pressing challenges of our time, a degree in Climate Science could be the perfect choice for you!
Are you interested in learning about innovative ways to combat climate change and food loss? Check out this article from MIT about a new system that uses passive cooling to preserve food crops and supplement conventional air conditioners in buildings, with no need for power and only a small need for water. The system cleverly combines previous standalone cooling designs to produce significantly more cooling overall, enough to help reduce food losses from spoilage in parts of the world that are already suffering from limited food supplies. Read more about this exciting development in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science.
Experience Africa from a whole new perspective with Edward Burtynsky's latest collection of photographs, African Studies. From the geometric patterns of agriculture to the devastating impact of corporate greed, Burtynsky's aerial images capture the intricate relationship between humans and the planet. Discover the beauty and horror of Africa's vast resources, extracted with both modern technology and centuries-old techniques. Explore the impact of China's shifting economy on the African continent, and ponder the abstract beauty of Namibia's Tsaus Mountains. The African continent is a final frontier worth exploring.
Alaskan fisherman Dune Lankard has witnessed the devastating impacts of natural and man-made disasters on his industry and homeland, from earthquakes to oil spills. Now, he's turning to regenerative ocean farming to mitigate the effects of climate change and create a new regenerative economy based on conservation, restoration, and mitigation. This burgeoning concept, developed by Canadian commercial fisherman turned ocean farmer Bren Smith, involves growing seaweed and shellfish in small underwater gardens, and is touted as the new farming model of the future. Explore the fascinating intersection of traditional fishing practices and sustainable ocean farming in this thought-provoking article.
As the world population continues to soar, INFARM's founders are leading an agricultural revolution with their innovative solution for urban self-sufficiency. By using vertical farms, this startup is redefining the way we grow vegetables and herbs, with less water and no soil, and with the potential to yield even greater results than traditional greenhouses. Find out how INFARM is collaborating with top designers to create modular, climate-controlled units that can be customized for any user, from a home grower to a supermarket owner.
Have you ever heard of a career in Aquaponics? Imagine being able to grow fresh, organic produce and raise fish in a sustainable and eco-friendly way. This is exactly what an Aquaponics Specialist does! Aquaponics is a unique and innovative way of farming that combines aquaculture (fish farming) with hydroponics (soil-less plant cultivation). Aquaponics Specialists are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining these systems to ensure that they are functioning at their optimal level. In this field, you will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and be at the forefront of sustainable agriculture. You will also have the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a positive impact on the environment by reducing waste and conserving water. As an Aquaponics Specialist, your typical duties will include monitoring water quality, feeding and caring for fish, managing plant growth, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as system design, research and development, or marketing and sales. To become an Aquaponics Specialist, you will typically need a degree in a related field such as aquaculture, horticulture, or environmental science. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Aquaculture and Fisheries, Agriculture, and Environmental Studies. Helpful personal attributes for this career include a love of nature and the environment, a passion for sustainable living, and strong problem-solving skills. You should also be comfortable working with technology and have excellent communication skills. Job prospects for Aquaponics Specialists are strong, as more and more people are becoming interested in sustainable agriculture. You may find employment with a variety of employers, including government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations. Some notable employers in this field include The Aquaponics Association, The Aquaponics Source, and The Freshwater Institute. So if you are interested in a career that combines your love of nature with cutting-edge technology, consider becoming an Aquaponics Specialist. You will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while growing fresh and healthy food for your community.
Did you know that human activity can cause earthquakes? In fact, they're becoming more common due to drilling, mining, and other subsurface activities. For example, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake in Spain in 2011 was caused by farmers using underground water for irrigation, which caused a shift in the fault line. The oil and gas industry, geothermal power developers, and dam builders have also caused man-made earthquakes. Learning about the science behind earthquakes is not only intellectually fascinating, but it can also help us understand how to avoid making the problem worse. Earthquakes are one of the most catastrophic natural disasters, and there is currently no way to predict when they will strike. As students, we can take an active role in learning about the impact of human activity on the environment and how we can make a positive difference.
Are you passionate about agriculture and the environment? Do you want to make a positive impact on the world? Then studying sustainable agriculture might just be the perfect fit for you! Sustainable agriculture is all about finding ways to produce food while taking care of the environment and preserving natural resources for future generations. It's a field that combines science, technology, and innovation to create a more sustainable and resilient food system. One inspiring example of sustainable agriculture in action is the vertical farm. These farms use hydroponic systems to grow crops in vertically stacked layers, using less space and water than traditional farms. They're popping up in cities all around the world, providing fresh produce to urban populations while reducing the environmental impact of food transportation. Academic figures such as Dr. Vandana Shiva, an Indian scholar and environmental activist, have made significant contributions to the field of sustainable agriculture. Dr. Shiva has been a vocal advocate for sustainable farming practices and has written extensively on the importance of seed sovereignty and biodiversity in agriculture. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in sustainable agriculture might include courses in soil science, agroecology, and sustainable food systems. Further specializations could include sustainable livestock management, organic farming, or sustainable energy in agriculture. Graduates of sustainable agriculture programs can go on to a wide range of careers, including roles in sustainable farming, food policy, and environmental advocacy. They might work for organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, or the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. To succeed in sustainable agriculture, it's helpful to have a passion for the environment and a desire to make a positive impact. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills are also essential, as sustainable agriculture often involves finding innovative solutions to complex challenges. So, if you're interested in a career that combines your love of agriculture with your desire to make a difference, consider studying sustainable agriculture. With the world facing increasing environmental challenges, the need for sustainable food systems has never been greater. And who knows? You might just be the next Dr. Vandana Shiva, making a significant impact on the future of agriculture and the planet.
Imperial College start-ups are leading the way in solving critical environmental problems through innovative solutions. From construction materials made from food waste, to sustainable fashion apps and fixing broken items, these students and staff are using their entrepreneurial spirit to tackle the climate crisis.
As we look towards the future, it's clear that our world is changing rapidly. One of the most exciting developments is the emergence of floating nations on the sea. These seascrapers will be built using 3D printed biorock, and will be powered by ocean thermal energy conversion. They will allow us to harvest calcium carbonate directly from seawater, and create vast ocean gardens that will reduce ocean acidity and provide environmentally restorative food. The first to seek jobs on these farms will be the poorest billion on Earth, who will come to the blue frontier because floating societies will require refugees to survive economically. These seasteads will restore the environment, enrich the poor and liberate humanity from politicians. By exploring the depths beneath the ocean, we will unlock new discoveries and opportunities that we can't even imagine yet. So let's embrace this new century of seasteading and explore the oceans first, and the stars next.
In the year 2039, breakfast may look very different from what we're used to today. With concerns about climate change and sustainability, traditional breakfast foods like meat and cereal may become harder to find. However, there are exciting alternatives on the horizon, such as lab-grown meat and insects, which are cheaper to produce and better for the environment. Urban farming and hydroponics may allow us to grow our own produce in cities, and drones could revolutionize food delivery. As we become more flexible in our work schedules, we may have more time to prioritize breakfast as the most important meal of the day. By exploring these new ideas and concepts, we can expand our knowledge and understanding of the world around us while also benefiting our health and the planet.
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the world? Do you want to help companies and organizations reduce their environmental footprint and operate in a more sustainable way? If so, then a career as a Sustainability Consultant might be perfect for you! As a Sustainability Consultant, you'll work with a wide variety of clients to identify and implement sustainable practices and solutions. You'll help companies reduce their carbon footprint, conserve resources, and improve their overall environmental performance. You'll also help them comply with regulations and meet sustainability standards. One great thing about being a Sustainability Consultant is that you get to work on a wide range of projects. For example, you might work with a restaurant to help them reduce food waste and switch to more sustainable packaging. Or, you might work with a large corporation to help them implement renewable energy sources and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. To be successful in this field, you'll need to have a strong understanding of sustainability principles and practices. You'll also need to be able to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders, and be able to think creatively to come up with innovative solutions. Typical duties for a Sustainability Consultant might include conducting sustainability audits, developing sustainability plans and strategies, conducting research on sustainability issues, and providing training and education to clients and stakeholders. There are many areas of specialization within the field of sustainability consulting, including renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, and green building. You might also work in related fields such as environmental policy or corporate social responsibility. To become a Sustainability Consultant, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as environmental science, sustainability, or engineering. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Environmental Studies, Sustainable Business, and Renewable Energy. Helpful personal attributes for a career in sustainability consulting include strong analytical skills, excellent communication skills, and a passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Job prospects for Sustainability Consultants are strong, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable employers in this field include consulting firms such as Deloitte and PwC, as well as government agencies and non-profit organizations. In conclusion, if you're passionate about sustainability and want to make a positive impact on the world, a career as a Sustainability Consultant might be the perfect fit for you. With a wide range of projects and opportunities available, and a strong job outlook, this is a field worth exploring further!
Unused shipping containers are being transformed into urban farms, providing fresh, healthy, and affordable produce year-round. Local Roots Farms is pioneering this scalable model of indoor agriculture, using hydroponics and controlled environment techniques to grow crops equivalent to five acres of conventional outdoor farming. By cutting down food miles and providing local leafy greens, Local Roots Farms aims to solve many issues with the current food system, while also addressing urban food deserts. Founder Daniel Kuenzi shares his story and vision with Smithsonian.com.
Southeast Asia's most persistent environmental concern is transboundary haze pollution, caused by peatland forest fires mainly in Indonesia and Malaysia for land clearance. The haze cycle affects public health, business, and tourism, leading to socio-economic impacts, despite ASEAN's initiatives towards transboundary haze-free ASEAN by 2020. The Third Sector Organisations (TSOs) play an increasingly important role in enabling, coordinating and facilitating the efficient implementation of effective strategies to combat the issue.
Have you ever stopped to consider the impact of packaging on our environment? From the plastic wrapper on your favorite snack to the cardboard box delivered to your doorstep, packaging plays a significant role in our daily lives. However, the production, use, and disposal of packaging materials have significant environmental impact. But what if we could create sustainable packaging that reduces waste and preserves our planet for future generations? That's where material science comes in. Material scientists study the properties and behavior of materials, including those used in packaging, to develop more sustainable solutions. One promising area of research is in bioplastics, which are made from renewable resources such as corn or sugarcane, and can be biodegradable or compostable. According to Dr. Ramani Narayan, a leading material scientist at Michigan State University, "The use of bioplastics can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and create a closed-loop system for waste management." In addition to material science, companies producing consumer products are also taking steps to reduce their environmental impact through sustainable packaging. For example, Nestle has committed to making 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025, and has already made significant progress towards this goal. Similarly, Procter & Gamble has pledged to use 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2030. However, there is still a long way to go. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, only 14% of plastic packaging is recycled, and the rest ends up in landfills or pollutes our oceans. We need innovative solutions and dedicated individuals to make a real impact on the environment. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future, one package at a time.
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the world? Do you want to help create a sustainable future for generations to come? If so, a career in Global Sustainable Development might be the perfect fit for you! Global Sustainable Development is a field that focuses on finding solutions to the world's most pressing environmental and social challenges. This includes issues such as climate change, poverty, food security, and inequality. As a Global Sustainable Development professional, you will work to create solutions that are environmentally sustainable, socially just, and economically viable. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that have a real impact on people's lives. For example, you might work on a project to provide clean water to a community in need, or help design a sustainable transportation system for a city. The possibilities are endless, and the work is always rewarding. Typical duties in this field can vary depending on your area of specialisation. Some common areas of focus include renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green building. Other related fields include environmental policy, sustainable business, and social entrepreneurship. Regardless of your area of focus, you will likely spend a lot of time researching, analysing data, and collaborating with others to find solutions to complex problems. To pursue a career in Global Sustainable Development, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as environmental science, sustainability studies, or international development. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability, the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Agriculture, and the Bachelor of Arts in International Development. Helpful personal attributes for success in this field include strong analytical skills, creativity, and a passion for social and environmental justice. You should also be comfortable working in a team environment and be willing to collaborate with others to find solutions to complex problems. Job prospects in Global Sustainable Development are generally positive, with a growing demand for professionals in this field. Some notable potential employers include the United Nations, World Wildlife Fund, and Greenpeace. Private sector employers include companies such as Tesla, Patagonia, and Interface. With a career in Global Sustainable Development, you will have the opportunity to work with organisations around the world to create a more sustainable future for all.
In "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle," Barbara Kingsolver and her family embark on a year-long journey to live off food from their own neighborhood, shunning the industrial-food pipeline. This memoir-journalistic investigation hybrid will take you on a thought-provoking adventure, revealing the true meaning of "you are what you eat." Kingsolver's enthralling narrative will open your eyes to the importance of locally sourced food, sustainability, and self-sufficiency. Recommended for environmentalists, foodies, sustainability advocates, and anyone interested in the impact of food on our health and the planet. This book will also appeal to those studying agriculture, ecology, and environmental science. Kingsolver's memoir will inspire readers to rethink their food choices and consider the benefits of locally sourced produce. Additionally, this book will be relevant to those interested in self-sufficiency and homesteading.
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