Environmental Science

Summary

This AP Environmental Science video introduces the course, which explores the critical interactions between Earth's natural and human systems. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these relationships in the face of a growing global population and planetary pressures. The course covers land and water use, energy, pollution, and climate change, integrating scientific practices and the concept of sustainability. It also highlights the role of industry in both creating and solving environmental challenges and introduces key figures like Rachel Carson, who brought environmental issues to the forefront.

Takeaways

• 🌏 Environmental Science is the study of interactions between Earth's natural systems and human systems.
• 📈 The world's population is growing, putting pressure on the planet, and understanding this pressure is crucial.
• 🏞 The course will cover land and water use, energy, pollution, and climate change as part of the interactions between natural and human systems.
• 🔬 Science practices are integral to the course, emphasizing the role of an environmental scientist in seeking truth about environmental interactions.
• 🌳 Sustainability is key to living within the boundaries of the Earth, and understanding the consequences of overstepping these boundaries is vital.
• 📚 Rachel Carson's work, particularly 'Silent Spring,' is highlighted as a significant contribution to modern environmental science.
• 🌱 The concept of environmentalism as a belief system is distinguished from environmental science, which is about finding scientific truths.
• 💡 The course is important because it addresses the need to 'Save Our Society' by understanding and respecting planetary boundaries.
• 🔑 The AP Environmental Science exam will test knowledge and application of environmental science concepts, including data analysis and mathematical skills.
• 🌐 The course includes natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, making it a comprehensive study of environmental issues.
• 📈 The ecological footprint is a concept that will be discussed, highlighting the disparities in resource use between developed and developing countries.

Q & A

What is the main focus of AP Environmental Science?

AP Environmental Science focuses on the study of interactions between the earth's natural systems and human systems.

Why is it important to understand the interactions between natural and human systems?

Understanding these interactions is important because it helps us comprehend how human activities impact the environment and how we can live sustainably within the earth's boundaries.

What is an example of a human-induced environmental pressure mentioned in the script?

An example of human-induced environmental pressure mentioned is the population exceeding 7 billion, which puts pressure on the earth's resources.

What does the course cover in terms of environmental issues?

The course covers a range of environmental issues including land and water use, energy, pollution, and climate change.

Who is Rachel Carson and why is she significant in environmental science?

Rachel Carson is a significant figure in environmental science because her book 'Silent Spring' brought attention to the negative consequences of DDT, influencing modern environmental science.

What is the difference between environmental science and environmentalism according to the script?

Environmental science is about seeking truth and understanding how we interact with the environment, while environmentalism is a belief system focused on lobbying for environmental protection.

Why is sustainability important in the context of this course?

Sustainability is important because it relates to living within the earth's boundaries and ensuring the long-term survival and well-being of human societies.

What is an example of exceeding planetary boundaries given in the script?

An example of exceeding planetary boundaries is the increase in global temperature due to climate change, which is affecting society and is predicted to continue having consequences.

What role does the economy play in achieving sustainability according to the script?

The economy plays a central role in achieving sustainability as it drives the industrialization that has led to environmental issues, and it must also drive the solutions for sustainability.

What does the script suggest about the composition of the AP Environmental Science course?

The script suggests that the AP Environmental Science course is interdisciplinary, including natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

What are some of the skills students are expected to develop in the AP Environmental Science course?

Students are expected to develop skills such as analyzing data, using mathematics, and applying scientific practices like conducting investigations and case studies.