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Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics
On The Brink: The Melting Of Earth’S Polar Ice Caps, Stephanie Kelley
On The Brink: The Melting Of Earth’S Polar Ice Caps, Stephanie Kelley
Kaleidoscope
Research indicates that earth’s polar ice caps are melting at a faster rate than ever before, a product of continued global warming. Unfortunately, side effects of this melting may negatively impact the lives of humans who dwell on this planet. Consequences may include: a significant loss of albedo, a considerable rise in sea levels, damage to aquatic ecosystems, and/or an ice age resulting from the shutdown of major oceanic currents. Although the situation is not yet imminent and the causes not yet pinpointed, the present outlook is too grim to ignore.
The Agricultural Footprints On The Environment, Philip Houtz
The Agricultural Footprints On The Environment, Philip Houtz
Kaleidoscope
Industrialized agricultural systems have given America a convenient and affordable means to supply a surplus of food products to its citizens. Transgenic technology, synthesized fertilizers, advanced pesticides, concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), and the use of farm machinery have all contributed to humanity’s ability to feed the world’s rapidly growing population. However, the energy-intensive food operation of today may not be as ideal as we assume. Fossil fuels are burned to meet the energy requirements for the continual production of large quantities of fertilizer and to keep farm machines operational. Fertilizer and pesticide runoff from farmland ultimately drains into rivers …