PPT-1 NEW -Introduction of environmental Science.pptx

Course Description: Introduction to Environmental Science

This course provides a foundational understanding of the principles and concepts of Environmental Science. It explores the interactions between humans and the natural environment, focusing on ecological systems, natural resources, and the impact of human activities on air, water, soil, and biodiversity. Topics include ecosystems and energy flow, population dynamics, pollution, climate change, sustainable development, and environmental policies. Students will examine real-world environmental issues and learn scientific methods for analyzing and solving environmental problems. Through lectures, discussions, and practical activities, the course aims to develop critical thinking, environmental awareness, and responsible citizenship toward the sustainable management of Earth’s resources.

1. I I n n t t r r o o d d u u c c t t i i o o n n t t o o E E n n v v i i r r o o n n m m e e n n t t a a l l S S c c i i e e n n c c e e U U n n d d e e r r s s t t a a n n d d i i n n g g O O u u r r P P l l a a n n e e t t a a n n d d O O u u r r R R o o l l e e Prepared by: VIRGITA A. MANIPOL, LPT S OUTHER N PHILIPPINES INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

2. What is Environmental Science ? Understanding Our Planet and Our Impact Environmental science is the comprehensive study of how humans interact with their natural environment. An Interdisciplinary Field Focus Areas: Changes & Impacts Biology Chemistry Sociology Physics Natural Human-Induced Understanding Earth's inherent processes and their evolution. Analyzing the profound influence of human activities on ecosystems. Geology Economics Geological Shifts Climate Patterns Pollution Deforestation Source: Intro to Environmental Science - Fiveable

3. Key Environmental Concepts Ecosystems Biodiversity Interconnected communities of living organisms and their environment. The variety of life on Earth, crucial for ecosystem health. • Interdependence • Variety of Life Natural Resources Ecological Footprint Materials from nature: Renewable vs. Non- renewable. Impact of human activities on the environment's capacity. • Renewable • Non-renewable • Human Impact Environmental issues are deeply interconnected, reflecting the complex interplay between human activities and natural systems. Source: Fiveable, OpenALG, Science.org, Wikipedia, PNAS

4. A Brief History of Environmentalism Pre-1960s 1960s-1970s Key Events A Shift in Consciousness Roots of Awareness Landmark Moments • Protecting nature's ✓ 'Silent Spring' (1962): Exposed • Systemic environmental concerns. beauty. pesticide dangers, sparking debate. • Focus on resource management. ✓ First Earth Day (1970): Mobilized • Public awareness millions globally, showing unified public will. • Early preservation efforts. surges. • Activism for policy change. The environmental movement transformed our understanding of human impact. Source: Information synthesized from general environmental history knowledge. It laid the groundwork for modern sustainability discussions.

5. Major Environmental Challenges Today Climate Change Pollution Rising global temperatures and extreme Contamination of air, water, and soil. weather. Caused by industrial waste, plastics, and runoff. Impacts biodiversity and causes health issues. Driven by greenhouse gas emissions. Threatens ecosystems, economies, and health. Deforestation Resource Depletion Large-scale destruction of forest ecosystems. Leads to rapid loss of species and habitats. Disrupts climate regulation and communities. Excessive consumption of finite natural resources. Growing water scarcity and energy demands. Poses long-term threats to global stability. "Addressing these challenges requires a shift from problem-focused studies to actionable, solution-based research." Source: Conservation biology: four decades of problem- and solution- based... (ScienceDirect)

6. Solutions and Sustainability Conservation & Waste Reduction Renewable Energy Sources Clean, sustainable power Harnessing natural forces Reduced carbon footprint Protecting biodiversity Minimizing ecological impact Promoting circular economy Policy & Cooperation Global legislative action Individual & Community Action Collaborative frameworks Driving systemic change E.g., California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 Empowering personal choices Fostering local initiatives Building resilient communities Shifting Focus to Action "An increasing trend towards solution-based research is detected for all drivers of biodiversity loss as society demands increase." Source: Conservation biology: four decades of problem- and solution-based research Sources: Intro to Environmental Science - Fiveable; Introduction to Environmental Sciences and Sustainability - Open Textbook Library; Conservation biology...; Climate change and California sustainability... - PNAS

7. Why Environmental Science Matters Human Health & Well-being Future Generations' Prosperity Safeguard against environmental Key Point threats. Promote long-term ecological Key Point Mitigate infectious diseases, improve ment Ensure resource availability, preserve nat heritage. Economic Stability & Innovation Deeper Connection with Nature Drive green innovation, create Inspire conservation efforts. Key Point Key Point industries. Enhance well-being through appreciation stewardship. Foster resource security, mitigate climate "In light of challenges to environmental and economic sustainability posed by climate change, proactive legislation and policies are enacted." - PNAS: Climate Change & California Sustainability Source: PNAS: Climate change and California sustainability—Challenges... | Source: Conservation biology: four decades of problem- and solution-based...

8. Questions & Discussion Your insights shape our collective future. Key Environmental Issues Current Global Challenges Climate Change Impacts Biodiversity Loss Drivers Pollution Concerns Global Impact Sustainability Potential Local Initiatives Sustainable Practices Adoption Nature-Based Solutions Community Action Programs Local Policy Engagement Community Focus Actionable Steps "Every discussion is a step towards a more sustainable tomorrow." Contact us: [email protected] Source: Intro to Environmental Science - Fiveable; Introduction to Environmental Sciences and Sustainability - Open Textbook Library; Nature-based solutions - Wikipedia

9. QUIZ NO. 1 1. What is Environmental Science ? 2. What does Environmental Science focus on ? 3. How does Environmental Science help society ? 4. How is Environmental Science related to other fields ? 5. How does Environmental Science promote sustainability ? 6. Where is Environmental Science applied ? 7. Where can we see the importance of Environmental Science ? 8. Where do Environmental Scientists usually work ? 9. When is Environmental Science important ? 10. When do we apply Environmental Science in daily life ? 11. When did Environmental Science become recognized as a field of study? 12. Who studies Environmental Science ? 13. Who benefits from Environmental Science ? 14. Who are called Environmental Scientists ? 15. Why is Environmental Science important ? 16. Why do we need to study Environmental Science?