Environmental Issues

Introduction
Love Canal remains one of the landmark events in the United States environmental history.   Love Canal is today remembered as a mark of protecting people against toxic wastes and today, there are many movements sprouting in name of Love Canal and aimed to protect the environment.  Love Canal is well known even in high school curricula. Love Canal was an opening even that led to upsurge in activism to protect citizens from toxic wastes. It acted as impetus for creation of federal government policy and also led to setting aside of Superfund program that was aimed at cleaning up the hazardous waste materials from the site.  Twenty years later Love Canal remains an inspiration event and provides important lessons for the country. There are important lessons that can be learned from the tragedy.

Background
The history of Love Canal began way back in 1892. It began with proposal by William T. Love to build 6 to 7 miles long canal that connected upper and lower Niagara River. Love hoped that by building this canal, it would be possible to harness the water from the upper Niagara River and therefore make it navigable (Hung, Bosela and Philllips, 2006).  This would also make it possible to build a 280-foot water fall into the Niagara River which would also provide cheap electric power in the area.

However, Love dream could not have been realized as the country was engulfed in economic depression and funding for the project slipped way.  Love had to abandon the project leaving behind a section of the canal that had already been dug, 6 feet wide and 3,000 feet long.  Fearing that the land could remain unused, it was sold through public auction in 1920 and it was turned into a municipal and chemical disposal site until late 1953.  It was learned that Hooker Chemical Corporation, which was a subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum, had continued to dump chemical wastes in the Love Canal.  However, the City of Niagara, and the United Stats Army had also been using the site to dump chemical wastes.  It was revealed that the city of Niagara dumped garbage waste while the United States Army possible dumped parts of Manhattan project and chemical warfare materials (Hung et al., 2006).

Understanding the risk that lay underneath the canal Hooker sold the land to Board of Education for only one dollar (Beck, 1979). This however included a warning in the deed transfer that absorbed Hooker of any future liability.  The board of education did not take the warning seriously or they did not understand the risk involved and therefore they  started constructing an 99th Street school on the land, which was completed in 1955 and  admitted 400 students every year.  Around the same decade, homes were constructed in the area but home owners were not warned that the site was near a chemical dumpsite. They were unaware of that the site had been dumped with 20,000 tons of toxic wastes. By 1978, more than 800 private single-family homes and about 240 low-income homes had been built in the area and 99th Street elementary school. However, since establishment of homes, there were complains of odors and substances which surfaced near the ground but they were covered with clay immediately. In 1976, Calspan Corporation investigated the issues and in its report, it indicated that there were chemical residues in the air, drums underneath, high levels of PCBs in sewer system, and others. In 1978, New York State Department of Health conducted research on 239 families and found increased reproductive problems in women and high levels of chemical pollutants in air and soil. However, New York State was later forced to close down 99th Street school and evacuated all pregnant women and children under the age two (SFAA Project, 2001). It later proposed to purchase all 239 homes which were closest to the canal. Love Canal affair led to formation of Love Canal Homeowners Association and Love Canal Parents Movements.

Love Canal provides important lessons for the United States. It was the first man made canal that received President declaration when President Carter declared Love Canal federal emergency plan due to health and environmental risk that was posed by the Canal (Hung et al., 2006).  Owing to the mass media attention it received, Love Canal provided an impetus for interest in the change to the environment as a result of human activities.  Most importantly, the tragedy showed the world the importance of identifying hazardous waste and need for proper disposal of waste as a matter of public interest.

Methods
In order to understand the important lessons that have been learned from Love Canal disaster, this study will take a critical review of literature pertaining to Love Canal, how it affected the public around, and government response to the epidemic.  Love Canal acted as an important event in the history of the United States on environmental matters.  Love Canal events have been subject for research and study which means there are more sources from research studies and government publications that can be used as source of information about the tragedy. Consequently, this study will set out inclusion and exclusion criteria for the sources to be used in the study. First, the source will have to be credible source. This means that primary sources, which documents actual events as they unfolded in Love Canal will be used. Primary sources will include actual statistics and reports that were published in the course of the study. Second, the study will also use credible secondary sources. This includes sources which were published by credible organization and government that were based on primary sources. Government policy programs that were implemented in the course of the crisis will be included in the study since they reveal government response to the crisis.  The study will also review studies that have been implemented carried out on various aspects in relation to Love Canal. Third, the study will also consider information from credible websites. Criteria for inclusion of websites in the study will be those with .org and .gov address.

Under the above criteria, the following sources were included in the literature review

Results
It is evident that Love Canal was a turning point in the history of the United States on environmental issues. Love Canal however revealed the underbelly of capitalism in the society. It showed how corporations would go for profit at expense of the public. Today only 10 of the original Love Canal settlement remains. Others have moved leaving the areas a deserted settlement.

The first important lesson that was learned from Love Canal was the effects of environmental toxic materials on health. Love canal has been described as a tragedy because it caused irreversible health conditions to most people.  Residents of the area experience many reproductive defects and many children were born with birth defects. Although only five birth defects were recorded, these statistics were not conclusive because some may not have been reported.  In addition, many people who lived in the area have been under close observation as they were reported to have had high white blood cell count which could clearly be a precursor for leukemia.  However, it was commendable that the government took steps and evacuated pregnant women and children under 2 years who were at increased risk of suffering health effects.

Love Canal was a clear demonstration of how people can suffer from ignorance and assumption of those who are supposed to take care of the population. Love Canal can be considered as a scandal since Hooker Chemical Corporation understood very well that it was selling land that had been dumped with toxic chemicals (Hung, Bosela and Phillips, 2006). To make the matter worse, the company understood that it was selling land to education department and hence it was likely to use this land to build schools. Although the land was sold for only one dollar which implies that it was given free, it would have been important for the company to make sure that the education department understood the dangers that lies beneath the land (Gibbs, 2010).   To absorb itself of any liability, the company inserted a warning clause in the sales agreement so that it could not be blamed in the future.  However, it is not still clear whether the company warned the education department of the danger that lie in the land and that it was not suitable for building schools or other settlements.  In connection with this, a lesson of importance of environmental stewardship was learned form the tragedy. There were many organizations which came up to fight for the rights of people of Love Canal and resist corporate attitudes towards the environment. It became an inspiration for environmental movements.
Another important lesson that was learned from the Love Canal is important of government involvement in assessing new settlement. When the area around Love Canal became settlement for most people, New York state government did not take any initiative to assess whether the land was fit for human settlement (SFAA Project, 2001).  From 1950s to 1970s, there was increase settlement in the area but the government did not take any step to regulate these settlements or ensure that the area inhabitable. Even when people complained of odor and substances in their house, the government did not take any initiative to investigate their concerns. In other word, the government was reluctant to act and understand why people were complaining of odor.  As servant of the people, it is important that government take fast initiative to ensure that it addresses people concern. If the government had acted earlier, perhaps the extent of detrimental effects would have been averted. The following picture shows posters which were placed warning people against going to the area but a child plays in the area.

Adapted from Ecumenical Task Force (1987)

Conclusion
Love Canal remains one of the most tragic events in the history of the United States. Love Canal tragedy mainly involved settlement of people in a Canal   that was previously as a dumpsite for toxic chemicals. When people settle in areas around Love Canal, they were not informed of the dangers that lie underneath and consequently, they complained of order and other chemical substances but no steps were taken to alleviate the condition until the government noted the seriousness of the case and evacuated the residents.  There were important lesson that could be learned from the case of Love Canal. First, Love Canal showed the negative effects of environment effects on human life. Second, it showed the corporate greed and ignorance and how it can affect people lives. Third, it emphasized the importance of fast government intervention to alleviate people problem. Overall, Love Canal was a wake up call for people to act to alleviate environmental damage.

One of the worlds most important wetlands and a biodiversity center of global significance, the Tigris-Euphrates basin has experienced extensive environmental change over the past 40 years. The greatest impact upon these once vast Mesopotamian marshlands has resulted from the implementation of hydro-engineering and agricultural irrigation schemes. Along with restructuring the areas human activity, dams and drainage systems have transformed the landscape and hydrology of the river system itself.
   
The basins ecology has been fundamentally transformed since its riparian countries, Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Iran, and Jordan, entered into what they termed the Age of Dams in the late 1950s. The cumulative impact, including construction of more than 30 large dams, some built recently in Turkeys headwater region under the Southeast Anatolia Project (SAP), has been devastating. With the storage capacity of the larger dams exceeding the the Euphrates annual flow by five times and twice that of the Tigris, water supply to downstream wetland ecosystems has been substantially reduced and flood pulses, which had nourished the marshes, effectively eliminated. The situation is likely to worsen, as more dams are currently planned, with some already under construction.
   
A more acute cause for the loss of basin marshlands comes from a massive draining program implemented in southern Iraq, at the confluence of the Tigris-Euphrates system, after the Second Gulf War. Along with damming, the program has resulted in a marked degradation of water quality for the two rivers. Saline return drainage and discharge of polluted agricultural effluent has added to the adverse impact on marshland fertility and ecosystem processes. Of note however, is the fact that engineering of the drainage works in Iraq was made physically possible largely due to the reduced flow resulting from upstream impoundments.    
   
Contamination from urban effluent is also considered part of the problem. Nevertheless, some hydrological experts suggest that the degradation of the basins marshland ecosystem is due solely to the long-term effects of water retention by dams.
   
Though the main reason for the damage is debatable, since 2001 there has been less cause to question its extent. That year scientists from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) unveiled evidence from NASA satellite images of damage that had previously been difficult to ascertain due to the unstable situation in Iraq. Images show the Mesopotamian marshlands, which had previously covered an area of 15,000 to 20,000 square kilometers, reduced to one tenth of that area, later followed by further reductions. Two marshlands, the Central and Al Hammar, had already collapsed completely, transformed into salt-crusted bare land. A third, the Al HawizehHawr Al Azim, is now at high risk of suffering the same fate, due to upstream activities, including the recently completed Karkeh Dam in Iran and the planned Ilisu Dam in Turkey. Impact on wildlife has been equally devastating. Marshland desiccation has resulted in extinction and near extinction of several endemic species of mammals, birds, and fish. Inability of upstream habitats for migratory birds to compensate completely for loss of marshland wintering and staging sites, has reduced the population of an estimated 40 species of birds. Marine life in the Persian Gulf and the Shatt al-Arab estuary and coastal delta has been similarly disrupted. Coastal fisheries in the Persian Gulf have experienced marked reductions because of their dependence on the marshland habitat for spawning migrations and nursery grounds. In the Satt al-Arab areas, the ecosystem alterations have resulted from the decrease in freshwater flows and the reduced amount of sediment reaching the sea.
   
Estimates based on the satellite images taken over a decade ago determined approximately 90 percent of marshlands in this once Fertile Crescent had already been lost. According to UNEPs Tim Foresman, the importance of the damage to Mesopotamias wetlands cannot be underestimated.

Solution
Despite the extent of damage to the basin, scientists believe there is hope for amelioration of the situation. Progress is possible, provided (1) all riparian countries and stakeholders agree to a rational discussion of issues and remediation measures. Ramifications of allowing difficult political realities to interfere with this process are considered too dire to accept failure in this regard.
   
To this end, UNEPs Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA) has begun meeting with representatives from Iraq and Syria, the Arab Centre for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD), and the Regional Organisation for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME). Aided by UNEPs proposed integrated scientific assessment and support from the global community, riparian countries are expected to establish international agreements for equitable and optimal use of the Tigris and Euphrates water systems, as well as similar pacts between Iran and Iraq regarding water-sharing between and among the Karkheh and Karun rivers and other Tigris tributaries.
   
Proposals include broad recommendations meant to promote basin-wide cooperation, (2) mitigate negative impact on the upper basin from dams, and restore wetlands. Efforts to mitigate the impact of dams and water works must be supported by dam developers and financial creditors adherence to policy guidelines recommended by the World Commission on Dams, as well as core provisions of the Untied Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-navigational Uses of International Watercourses.
   
To ameliorate the impact of dams, enough water flow to sustain life in downstream ecosystems must be ensured, and the role of water works must be reassessed. A long-term strategy would include at least partial (3) re-flooding of the delta area, facilitated by the development of an ecologically sound hydrodynamic model of the Tigris-Euphrates river system and its inland delta. Another option, used successfully in other countries, is to close the larger dams.
   
Shorter-term efforts should begin with (4) protection of water quality. Because of its bearing on the type of flora and fauna supported, controlling the quality of waters entering the marshlands is essential to restoration. Saline irrigation waters and urbanindustrial effluent pose the greatest threats, one from within Iraq, where influxes from the Tharthar and HabbaniyahRazaza reservoirs augment salt concentrations in the lower Tigris and Euphrates. Another need is to address the reduced fertility waters nourishing the marshes, created by dams (including the Karkeh) blocking sediment flow. Corrective measures in this regard will also benefit the natural evolutions of inland delta areas.
     
Further measures call for (5) Re-evaluation of River Engineering Works (6) Assigning Protected Areas and (7) Data Collection, Monitoring, and Long-Term Capacity Building. A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment of drainage and agricultural projects is needed, along with re-evaluation of massive off-river water storage reservoirs of the Tharthar and HabbaniyahRazaza. Modification or removal of diversion canals, dikes, and other hydraulic works inside marshlands may be necessary. Stabilizing the surviving Al HawizehAl Hawr Azim marshes is of utmost importance, calling for immediate attention by both Iraq and Iran. Suggestions include establishment of a trans-boundary peace park, a national reserve, or a UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB). Finally, detailed desiccation studies are needed to determine and monitor impact on wildlife and environmental conditions. Routine field data collection, aerial photography, and remote sensing imagery should be part of the monitoring program. Additionally, environmental administrations in Iran and Iraq need support, with wetland management and restoration training provided.

Flora and Fauna
Embodying Southwest Asias largest wetland ecosystem, the Mesopotamian marshlands have sustained a wide variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna. More than a few are of significant scientific and economic value.
   
When healthy, the majority of the Tigris-Euphrates wetlands are covered with vegetation, dominated by the common reed (Pharagmites australis), a large temperate and tropical perennial grass. The reed is gradually overtaken in the transitional season by reed mace (Typha augustata), a striaght-standing perennial with thick leaves. Temporarily flooded areas, or mudflats, support salt-tolerant vegetation, such as low sedges and bulrush (Carex and Juncus spp., Scripus brachyceras). Rich aquatic vegetation, such as hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum), a free-floating plant pondweed (Potamogeton lucens spp.) and eel grass (Vallisneria sp.) are found in deeper, permanent lakes, along with bottom plants like stonewart (Chara spp.). Smaller lakes and back swamps support floating vegetation of waterlilies (Nymphaea and Nuphar spp.), water soldier (Pistia stratiotes), and duckweed (Lemna gibba).
   
As a major sanctuary of regional and global biodiversity, these marshlands also support a diverse population of wildlife. Situated on the inter-continental migratory flyway, they are of particular importance to birds. The marshlands are host to waterfowl traveling between breeding grounds in Siberias Ob and Irtysh river basins to wintering quarters in the Caspian region, Middle East, and northeast Africa. An estimated several million, including 134 species, of West Asias wintering wildfowl reside in Al Hammar and Al Hawizeh marshes. At least 11 of these species are globally threatened.
   
A few species are especially dependent on the marshlands for sustenance. These include the Dalmatian Pelican  Pygmy Cormorant, a green-glossed black bird of medium size Marbled Teal, a gregarious, sandy-colored duck White-Tailed Eagle Imperial Eagle the Slender-billed Curlew and an endemic sub-species of the Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis iraquensis). The Goliath Heron, Sacred Ibis, and African Darter, all in danger of extinction, are also known to breed in these wetlands. As one of the few non-marine marsh areas in the world with Endemic Bird Area Status, they support nearly the entire population of the Basrah Redd Warbler, the Iraq Babbler, and the Grey Hypocolius.
   
Mammal populations have been under extraordinary pressure. Lions were exterminated by 1945, and three globally-threatened mammal speciesthe Grey Wolf, the Long-fingered Bat, and a subspecies of  the Smooth-coated Otterinhabit the marshes. Rare by the 1980s, other large animals the Honey Badger, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Goitered Gazelle, and Indian Crested Porcupine, also previously seen in the area, are now thought to be extinct. Fomerly common, the Wild Boar, is also now in decline. The Small Indian Mongoose, the Asiatic Jackal, and the Red Fox are among other often-spotted mammals. Common reptiles include the Caspian Terrapin, a soft-shell turtle, and a variety of snakes, including the over-hunted and now rare, Desert Monitor.
   
Previously comprising the bulk of Iraqs inland catch, many of the marshes fish are of scientific and economic significance. Dominant are those in the carp family (Cyprinidae), stomachless and toothless fish of special importance to the study of evolution. A number of species that spawn mainly in the marshes include the endemic and commercially valuable Gunther the endemic giant catfish, recognized by its small, flat head the Hilsa shad, and the pomphret. The seasonal migration of the penaeid shrimp, from the Persion Gulf, is of major commercial significance.

Can the warming of the 20th century be explained by natural processes

Source CSIRO. (2009). Can the warming of the 20th century be explained by natural processesDepartment of Climate Change Australia.

Often the general public demands explanation of the ever increasing attention climate change has been receiving in the press, media and academia. It is important to explain the context of climatic change and how it is affected by natural factors as well as human factors.

Based on this argument, the author of the article mentions various factors which affect climate change and discusses which factors go beyond natural occurrences in the atmosphere. He divides the factors influence climate into internal and external forcing factors (CSIRO, 2009).

Internal forcing factors are related to the atmospheric and oceanic properties of the Earth (CSIRO, 2009). The oscillations produced by both these factors and often represented in the form of the El NinoLa Nina effects can cause differences in the cooling and warming properties of the Earth. Since wind patterns and global weather is affected by these factors, climate change is also affected by these factors.

External factors are related to the energy that is transmitted to the earth through radiation and external factors. These include mainly factors such as the radioactive energy received from the Sun and volcanic eruptions on land (CSIRO, 2009).  For instance, the effect on climate through a volcanic eruption can be described in the difference of temperature it creates in the stratosphere of the Earth. Due to the dust, the lower part of the atmosphere cools down while the upper part becomes hotter. Similarly, the radioactive solar energy varies based upon its position in the solar system and its corresponding position in line with the Sun. since the level of solar energy received by the Earth varies in cycles which are thousands of years long, the climatic changes that occur are based upon that fact since the solar radiation directly affects the insulation of the planet (CSIRO, 2009).

Using the fact material from modeling programs scientists use to computer climatic change, they have come to a conclusion that the Earth has warmed by 0.74 degree Celsius since the start of the 20th century. Since both internal and external factors were added to the model, even so, greenhouse gases and its forcing nature has outpaced all internal and external factors with their link to determining climate change and affecting it. based on this, they have released data that shows that global warming is most affected by greenhouse gases since the natural processes involved in climate change have only affected short term climatically conditions.

Finally, the article tries to clear the air and answer the question of climatic change and natural processes. Based on evidence provided by the article related to the temperature change in the Earth atmosphere, with the upper stratosphere increasing in temperature where as the lower part decreasing in it, and the increase in hot weather and the decrease in cold weather, scientists have concluded that these are some factors which point a finger mainly towards greenhouse gases, which are manmade (CSIRO, 2009). Evidence related to the warming of the poles, melting glaciers and the change in atmospheric pressure augment their observations and claims (CSIRO, 2009).

If scientists are unable to forecast the next weeks weather accurately, how can they predict the climate in the next 50 to 100 years

Source CSIRO. (2009). If scientists are unable to forecast the next weeks weather accurately, how can they predict the climate in the next 50 to 100 years Department of Climate Change Australia.
The reliability of climatic change occurring in the world today is often questioned by various people under the pretext of the above mentioned argument. To some, it would appear logical and convincing however the article discusses and argues the understandability between the two variables weather and climate (CSIRO, 2009).

The article describes the fundamental difference between weather and climate that most people do not understand. Weather is determined through testing and observing variables such as global atmospheric circulation. At the same time, storm activities and other weather related events are collaborated and based upon that, weather patterns are determined. Climate is observed on a much longer term basis than weather, which is done on a daily basis. Because of this, climate is viewed through variables of temperature changes, precipitation and wind patterns across entire regions. The author of the article mentions the long term nature stretching to months if not millions of years. Thus, the first argument made by the article is that weather is based on chaotic circumstances which can go wrong due to the short run analysis and unpredictability of the atmosphere. However, climate measurements can give an accurate mean of weather in a region because of the length of time dedicated to observing the region.

The author goes on to mention the way climate and weather are measured through models. Principally, the models used are the same. The only difference is the time. Studying the behavior of the Earth through lenses encompassing physical, biological and chemical processes, both climate and weather are computed (CSIRO, 2009). The key difference lies in the fact that when computing weather calculations and predictions, initial factors (which can vary) at the beginning of the term of forecast must be considered. Thus, variances and fluctuations in the model analysis can occur. This is not to say that climatic models are 100 accurate. But because of their long term nature, and the use of generalized properties, they are far more accurate. At the same time, climatic models do not produce just one result. Scientists keep in mind the essence of variability and compute different model results, which are then averaged to produce a consistent result.

Has global warming stopped
Source CSIRO. (2009).Has global warming stoppedDepartment of Climate Change Australia.
Claims made by certain sectors of the public, media and other stakeholders tend to reflect that the process of global warming has ended. However, in reality, scientists have conducted thorough research and have proved that the phenomena is still occurring and rising with time with temperatures rising by 0.74 degree Celsius in the 20th century. They refute the arguments based on the premise that such statements come from those who do not realize that temporary coolings due to the El Nino affect are not reflective of long term changes.

The first argument made by scientists is in respect to the surface air temperatures of the planet. When taking away the effect of El Nino, which does not cover the temperatures of the arctic, it is clear that the global temperature is rising. They also cite that people generally forget the nature of trends. They are long term based and thus the start and end year are fundamentally important when analysis has to be conducted (CSIRO, 2009). Some periods will show decrease in warming where as other periods will show a general increase in the temperatures of the Earth. If long term trends are established, the past decade is noted to be topping the list of time period for temperature increase on the planet.

Second, scientists mention the observations of the Troposphere atmosphere temperatures which are in the lower part of the atmosphere. These temperatures reading reflect almost consistent results to those that were obtained through surface air temperature observations.

Finally, the observation of temperatures near oceanic regions and sea levels reveals another startling picture that global warming is continuing, if not increasing on the planet. Since research has concluded that the warming effect caused by the greenhouse gases present in the atmosphere directly affect the oceans and their temperatures, the importance of oceanic temperature is paramount. Based upon that, researchers have conducted various observations which have proved that the temperature has risen in the oceans and sea levels. This can be further validated by the fact that during the 20th century, sea level increased by 17 centimeters.

Endless human desire is harmful for our planet. While people focus on individual benefits, they ignore everything else on the earth, including the environment we are living. From the sociologists, we learned that human are desire-oriented. We spend so much to trade the most valuable things in our life and our desire encourage us to chase money and make profit from this society. Human is not only trade with other individuals, but they also trade with the nature as well. With the growth over-developed cities and resources digging, we are losing lands for agriculture and natural resources. Instead of consuming the foods and water from the natural earth, we buy organic foods and distill water from profit-making manufactures. Some of scam business people are even produce fake meats or poison foods to customers. When we started to think about the environment protection and human health, it is urgent to make change on our desire. We are making more money, but going far away from the nature. If we dont stop the endless desire, all of us would see the Armageddon.
 Human Desires and the Changes to the Environment

Introduction
The world as we know it is changing. This is caused by human actions and environmental changes, each of which is affecting the other in a significant manner. The relationship between the two entities has to be of peaceful co-existence else one or both of the parties feels the negative impact of the abuse done to it. Mankind has extracted the earths resources for his own end and natures calamities have taken numerous lives and caused devastation to entire cities. It must be realized that both the humans and the environment have a direct impact on each other and we must try to create the best atmosphere to this effect.

The main purpose of this purpose is to identify how the endless human desires have led to the changes in the environment. The paper will discuss the various perspectives and shed light on some facts and figures pertaining to the climate, the resources, human greed and etc. The paper will also discuss the effects of mankinds limitless desires and how when it is left unchecked it can cause harm to everything around it. The main questions which would be analyzed in this paper are who actually controls the resources, what are the scale of the demand and supply of said resources, and which are the most beneficial resources The paper will also answer the questions as to the environmental damages extent caused by the development of our culture and would also shed light on the human food sources, as to how they organically are and how are they adulterated After analyzing these problems and discussing extensively about them, we will actually find out that this paper answers the present day situation of our environment and how mankind, in his endless greed, has corrupted it.

Background of Current Environmental Challenges
There are numerous environmental challenges being observed today, least of which is not the population growth rate. The population growth rate of the world is 1.14 as of 2009 (World Bank - World Development Indicators, 2010). Given this appears as a small percentage, but when taken in the whole picture, it becomes alarming. The current population of the world is 6.5 billion people which is expected to double by 2067, given the current growth rate (Rosenburg, 2009). This increase of people has led to a fear of food shortage as well as of water and utility shortages as well. Feeding such large number of people has become problematic for governments and countries are hiking prices for even the most common commodities on a more regular basis increasing inflation.

Similar concerns lies with the increase in resource consumption. Resources are divided into 2 groups. Renewable and Non-renewable resources Non-renewable resources take millions of years to be created and once they are wholly consumed it is very difficult to bring them back (Petroleum, Gas, Water are examples of non-renewable resources). Renewable resources however are not so concerning since due to their nature they can be replenished and are often good sources for limitless energy generation and similar activities. Consumption of resources is a major concern is worrisome in its own right since it is often unjust as statistics prove that the 20 rich populace consume 76.6 of the resources of the world while the worlds poorest 20 consume simply 1.5 of the worlds resources (Shah, 2008). This inequality adversely affects the distribution of resources and people in the world are often deprived of the most basic resources since they cannot get access to it since it is consumed by others elsewhere.
The Climate has also changed recently with weirder anomalies being observed across the world. The temperatures are fluctuating and increasing number of natural calamities are befalling the world. Over the course of the past 50 years, due to our carbon emissions and greenhouse gases through human activities it has been recorded that the average surface temperature has increased by 0.76oC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2010).

If this goes unchecked, scientists believe that in the worst case scenario the temperature is believed to increase by 6.4oC by the end of this century.

Similarly there are numerous other environmental issues which include improper waste disposal, wastage in resource consumption and increases in the peoples consumption patterns. These all work towards challenging the environment and causing it to develop damaging characteristics.

Current Status of Environmental Protection
In recent years there has been a spike in protectionist activities and there are newer greener and more environmental conscious companies entering the sphere. Following the 70s people began taking an interest into the wasteful and damaging trend of human behavior and the hippy culture of the time proved an extreme reaction to such attitudes. This extreme reaction led to the foundation of the realization of how people had developed behavior patterns which were hurting the earth and recognized the need for people to return back to the basics and try to conduct themselves in a manner more befitting the protection of the planet and its resources.

Even though this was a radical movement and seemed excessive to most people, the thought was rightly directed. It led to the birth of organizations such as Greenpeace and similar themed organizations, which all fought for the protection of the environment and saving of the planets resources (Tree Web Writers).

Besides the active participation of private organizations and non-profit organizations, governments have also begun rewarding initiatives shown towards caring for the environment. Companies which conduct Corporate Social Responsibility activities receive tax exemptions and are allowed to operate more freely and with fewer hindrances. Also, aside from encouraging Environmental activities and making it more appealing to organizations and private parties, government has established its own bodies which act as caretakers and specified organizations meant to provide the governments perspective regarding certain issues. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission are examples of such bodies (Environmental Protection Agency).

So in its entirety, when we look at the global situation, we have NGOs, Private organizations, Public Organizations, Governmental bodies, and Clubs and Societies all aimed at protecting the environment and improving it when possible. The media and news also highlight such activities and promote the need for environmental consciousness and people are well aware of their actions and their consequences for the planet.

Relationship between Economy and Resources
A countrys economy is highly dependent on the resources that it has access too. So the strengths of a country rely on its strategic location, its human capital, its resources and its relations with other countries. So since the resources play such a vital role in the promotion and manifesto for a country, the government strives to maximize its resources and tries to extract the most benefit from it as they can in maintaining their power and standing in the global community.

The economy and resources have a positive relationship. As the economy increases and grows, the resources extraction and utilization also increases and grows showing the proportional effect on each other.

Many economists have created their evaluations based on how the resources and economy effect each other and there are differing views regarding the matter. Some economists believe that during times of poor economy, the extraction utilization of the resources increases and countries try to survive by extracting benefits from the resources which are available to them. Then during times of high economy, alternative means are discovered and a country saves its own resources for itself while outsourcing or purchasing resources from other countries to meet its needs. This goes against the previous theory of positive correlation and during times of great economy low dependence on own resources are observed while during times of bad economy the vice versa is seen (Bebbington  Perreault, Dec 2008).

A careful balance needs to be maintained so that there are no mismanagement and resources are not squandered nor are they under-utilized. Spending too many resources is bad but so is not utilizing your resources as your strength as well. That is why a delicate balance is suggested for which the governments need to identify how much they require for their economy to work fine while the resources are not unnecessarily utilized as well.

Money making and Resources
Who controls the Resources
Technically resources are not one persons property but are meant to be used and shared by all. The resources are meant to be used for the benefit for humanity and to this effect it should be everyones responsibility to look after and be responsible for the resources.

However, it is not so simple. In the actual world, resources are owned by Governments mostly, who set limits and act as watchdogs over the resources. Basing this on the argument that to protect the resources from being squandered by various groups of individuals, a body should exist to look after the resources and protect people from their own greed and overconsumption. Therefore in most countries, the government becomes responsible for the resources and it rations out its use and protects it from being unnecessarily used by others. The African government, for example, protects the wildlife and its geographic specific resources from poachers and other predators so that they are not wasted (Bolton, Feb 2008). Similarly, the U.S. has set various bodies just for the sole purpose of protecting the resources from external threats and abusers.

Often times, organizations are also hired and set up to look after specific resources and try to protect them and to manage them so that they do not disappear entirely or become scarce. Examples of this are power generation plants which create electricity and in most countries are privately held by shareholders and board members (Bonsiewich, Jun 2007). These private held organizations also become the legal owners of a share of the resources.

Scale of Demand and Supply
The question of whether the supply is enough to meet the level of demand is a clear indicator of the absence of constraint on peoples part. The demand for certain resources and their availability are often conflicting. This is often due to the fact that most things in demand are not wholly able to be provided due to limited supply. Most resources have a certain limit and cannot be exceeded no matter what be done. For example the total oil reserves are only so much. But the demand for its is objective as every plant and vehicle and machine requires the maximum consumption. Therefore the demand can never be satisfied by the volumes of commodities on this earth.

Considering the supply side we can see that quantities for most goods are fixed and cannot be exceeded. This influences the need for alternative sources and hence the search for alternative resource options are sought. The discovery of solar power and wind power arose from the realization of the helplessness mankind might face if the reserves of petroleum fell.

The scale of demand and supply is subjective then and the observation that should a certain level be met, all the demand would be satisfied is purely hypothetical as demand of mankind can never be so easily fulfilled.

Most Beneficial Resources
Petroleum is currently the most sought after resource and for that various wars and operations have been conducted in recent years. The U.S. in its search for a permanent fuel source invaded Iraq and Afghanistan and has spent billions of dollars to that effect (Leder  Shapiro, Volume 36, Issue 8). The countries which are in possession of oil fields and petroleum sources are ones which are financial strong and can influence global decisions easily.

Another commodity which is gaining importance globally is fresh water. Many Asian countries and African countries have minimal access to pure water and have to either purchase it from other countries or they must set up expensive processing plants to convert sea water or other water sources into drinkable water. Since water is such a commodity that you cannot live without it, it has become sought after more and more by various governments in the central and eastern part of the world.

One other resource which is growing in its worth is gold. It is a rare metal and was once the mode of currency. However, with the entrance of paper money, the governments discarded gold as a currency form and then it became restricted to jewelry and decorative ornaments. However, in light of recent political situations and the reserves of dollars being held by China, the U.S. government is trying to bring gold back as the primary conversion medium. Since it has the largest gold reserves in the world (World Gold Holdings, 2009) the government is trying to bring gold back as the major currency exchequer.

Endless Human Desires
Development of Culture vs. Environmental Damage
Culture is shifting rapidly worldwide and there is no longer key identifiable cultures as the intermingling of cultures has led to a melting pot of numerous cultures varying slightly based on religions and geographic peculiarities. The development of culture has led to anti-biblical thoughts and the movie 2012 brought out how the cultural differences and environmental damage complemented each other to a certain extent (Smith, 2010).

The cultural values being propagated and beliefs which are commonly held by people today seem to ignore the end of times and feel that no matter what actions they do now, they will have no repercussions in the future. Hence, the blatant disregard for nature and the environment is commonly seen today as people abuse the environment in their own selfish quests. The environmental damage is not taken seriously and when disasters strike, only then people begin taking notice of their surrounding and reflecting on their actions. Even though the 2012 apocalypse is inaccurate (Solare, 2009), it does seem that something of such a level would make people realize to stop and take notice of their worldly actions.

Food Content- Do we know what we are eating
Thanks to the advancement of science and technology, we have revolutionized nearly every aspect of our life. One such field which has seen intense advancements is the agricultural sector. The improvements in fertilizers, insecticides and seeds have led to greater percentage yields per hectare and more appealing products. Unlike organic food which has zero chemical additives and are grown purely from natural sources, fruits and vegetables found in grocery stores have been produced through all manner of chemical additives and processing to make them look more appealing and display certain qualities (seedless watermelons, etc.) (Spevack).

Aside from the fact that our fruits and vegetables are being produced with the help of insecticides and pesticides which are very dangerous on their own (Cropper, 2004), the other junk food and fast food that we intake are also damaging to our internal system and the environment as well. The production of most of the food items involves frying and similar processes which reduce the health factor and make the food a potential risk to our body by increasing our cholesterol or increasing the chances of obesity and in turn heart attacks. The preservatives and additives added to these food items introduce toxins into our systems which may cause lasting damage (Gaby, 2009). Even though flavorings do not cause any lasting damage, the food additives do (Idea Connection).

New Endless Sources to meet our needs
The movie Avatar introduced a foreseeable future where mankind has exhausted its own resources and has had to resort to invading other areas and occupying their resources for their own consumption. This concept is not as alien as we have seen something similar happen in the Iraq War and previous other wars where countries have tried to take over other countries for the sake of occupying their resources. Human beings would rather acquire anothers resources than wisely use his own. The concept of Avatar should give us some fear as to what would be the fate of future generations as they would not have an alternative planet to take over since till date, only Earth has shown signs of life and no planet in our solar system can support human life.

The concept of having an endless source may seem ideal for most people but realistically speaking, even if such a source existed, it would only lead to further abuse of the existing resources and people would still be misusing what they have.

Conclusion
Even though there is a lot of hue and cry for the protection of the environment, realistically speaking, the situation is quite deplorable. Human beings have not skipped any chance to abuse nature and extract any resource that the planet has to offer. The most developed countries are expected to show the most concern, yet studies show that these countries are the worst offenders and contribute to the most pollution and waste to the planet as compared to developing nations which have smaller industries and in margins of scale are not so harmful. Countries such as the United States and China tread over environment protection laws whenever they get the chance and their governments are strong enough to do as they please.

If people do not realize the damage that they are causing this planet, and rather than finding newer sources try to curb their excessive needs and desires and plan for the future, there is a chance that the society would survive for a longer period and mother nature may not react as furiously as she does so now with hurricanes and floods and earthquakes.

The Bald Eagle has its origins from the North American landmass. The bird, often referred to as the American eagle based on its origins, is the only bird to be specifically found in North America alone. It was given the name Halo-Aeetos-Leukos which meant a sea eagle with a white head. At that time, the prevalent culture was that the word bald signified the color white. These distinctive birds have an evident appearance difference from other eagles. Classified as part of the hawk family, Bald Eagles are known to be birds of prey. Adult eagles have the characteristics of an evenly brown coat, with a distinctively white head and tail. Females are generally found to be 25 larger than a male eagle. Their legs seem as if they were designed for hunting. Their toes are equipped with talons, which are used to pierce the hanging body of the prey within the grasp of the feet of the bird. Their beaks are hooked and designed for piercing angles as well.

Bald eagles can often measure lengths up to 28-40 inches. Their wingspan can encompass 2.44 meters in between them however, these factors are largely dependent on size. Bald Eagles in Florida are smaller with lesser wingspans. Similarly, ages can vary with location as well. Generally though, a Bald Eagle can live up till 30 years in wild environments.

Endangerment of the species
The Bald Eagles Habitat is majorly in the State of Alaska, where over 70,000 Bald Eagles can be found. This is further augmented by the region of British Columbia where another 20,000 birds can be found. The area has been a flourishing den for the animals as this habitat provided them with ample food salmon and dead fish.  However, in 1967, a sharp decrease in the number of Bald eagles was noticed. Before the 1973 Endangered Species Act was launched, Bald Eagles had already been declared an endangered species in many states across the southern part of the United States.  Though most States had linked the Bald Eagles to near extinction, some States mentioned them as threatened species.

Researchers have cited different evidence regarding the diminishing population of the Bald eagles. Based on consensus, the major reason for decline of the Bald Eagles has been human population itself. Since humans and Bald Eagles compete for the same form of food, Bald Eagles were out hunted with the technology that man has. The ecosystem became unbalanced as man caught more fish than was needed and over fished in regions necessary for the survival of the Bald Eagles. This trend became even worse when Alaskan fishermen killed over 100,000 thousand Bald Eagles during 1917-1953 based on the idea that they were a threat to their fishing businesses.

When the species was noticed as becoming extinct, laws and legislations helped protect them but that could not save them from the contamination and harassment from human influences. The use of heavy pesticides that were being used on agricultural produced was consumed in one way or the other by Bald Eagles. Their reproduction cycles and rates were drastically effected. The breeding cycles of the Bald Eagles were drastically effected, leading them to decrease breeding eventually due to low fertility and high death rates.

Importance of the Bald Eagle
The Bald eagle is not only an animal but a representation of the American Culture. In 1782, June 20th, the Bald Eagle was chosen to represent America as a national emblem and seal. Though many would feel the picture is flashy and in nature, the truth is that this picture is a symbol for the reality of the American people and the American way of life.

In my opinion, the Bald Eagle is a representation of the American Culture. As the Eagle soars high, with freedom with majestic flight and enormous strength, it symbolizes the mentality of the then Young America and the aspiration of the people at the time. Thus, the bald eagle is more like a heritage to society. The Bald eagle represents the freedom, liberty and strength as personification of the freedom, liberty and strength that the people of America enjoy.

To me, the Bald eagle is part of our national heritage. It reflects the views, perceptions and aspirations of our forefathers who created the very homeland we live in. The emphasis must have been on the soaring ability of the eagle. Perhaps, at that time, they felt that America too was ready to fly into the annals of history at the highest of heights and the greatest of strengths. Thus, the American Bald Eagle represents not only our official seal, but also the philosophy of the American Federation.

Conclusion
Preserving the bald eagle becomes a responsibility upon us all. Since the symbol represents the core values of America, saving the Bald Eagles is like, in my opinion, valuing and saving the philosophy of America itself. Given that very few species come out of the endangered list, with the Bald Eagle one of them, our resolve is unquestionable. That is something we must cherish in this day and age, with the hideous nature of terrorist bent on doing the same thing to us, as we are doing to the Bald Eagles.

The eagle represents freedom. It represents the freedom of the American public.  Thus, it is important to understand our role in life and to mend our ways before we destroy this heritage of the American people. First of all, I feel that people should be more considerate about their environment. Over fishing, greed and consumerism can only go so far until it starts hurting the environment. Over fishing and hunting is one of the main causes of the endangerment to Bald eagles.  The unfair use of pesticides and un-careful spraying across the environment is highly irresponsible behavior.  These are manmade factors that can be controlled simply by a change in mentality. If everyone began to view this symbol as a national flag, things could be drastically changed. For that, it is important that people understand what the Bald Eagle stands for America.

Environmental disasters are not natural disasters. There is a clear difference between natural disasters and environmental disasters. Natural disasters are those disasters that occur on earth which cause loss of live and property and they occur without human activities having a hand on them. Such disasters are such as earthquake, floods, tornado, and volcanic eruption and other related disasters that occur because of geographical reasons. In many parts of the world, these disasters have left untold destruction to people and property. The death toll, injuries, lasting damage and media exposure of the environmental disasters are some of the untold effects that humans have to bare with.

Environmental Disasters
Disasters which occur due to human effects on the environment are referred to as environmental disasters. These are disasters associated with human activities directly or indirectly on the environment and have far reaching impacts on the environment and with time cause environmental changes which in turn result in disastrous actions leading to loss of live and property.

Environmental disasters can be categorized into the following classes-
Agricultural disasters
Biodiversity disasters
Coal related disasters
Human health disasters
Industrial disasters
Mining related disasters
Oil industry disasters
Nuclear related disasters
Air, Land and Water disasters
Agricultural Disasters

Agricultural environmental disasters are disasters which are ignited due to human activities on the environment altering the ecosystem. The disasters affect agriculture in terms of death of people and animals, death of plants due to severe weather changes, disruption of human life requiring even permanent migration options.

Human activities on forest destruction come along with many consequences ranging from soil erosion to upcoming of deserts. Disasters such as windstorms, floods, drought, landslides, forest fires and extreme temperatures among others are all associated with the destruction of ecosystem. When such disasters strike, then activities related to international trade e.g. agricultural export, tourism, crafts and industrial activities are affected and this affects people who are involved directly or indirectly.

Biodiversity Disasters
This is a situation that is making extinction of some live because of selfishness of human activities. Most people are aware by now that many animal species are close to becoming extinct, but few seem to realize how severe this has become and what consequences will come with such extinction. Research at the University of Florida indicates that during the last Ice Age, giant creatures were wiped out not by the change in climate but by human activities namely hunting.

The American Institute of Biological Sciences has compiled a comprehensive analysis of the circumstances surrounding the present biodiversity crisis, together with an extensive list of information resources. The biologist Edward O. Wilson, who is probably best known for his bookSocio-biology The New Synthesis, (1975), wrote an article titled is humanity suicidal giving a critical analysis how humans are killing all live within themselves at the cost of their prosperity.

Coal Disasters
Coal is believed to be more radioactive than nuclear waste. The by-products of coal e.g. fly ash contain very high levels of lead, mercury and other heavy metals which are hazardous to life.  In Tennessee, the Kingston Fossil Plant broke in December 22, 2008 unleashing more than 4million cubic meters of ash slurry into the community.

This was described as the worst environmental disaster in the history of the United States  which covered over one square kilometre of nearby land and flowed into the neighbouring Emory and Clinch rivers, where it has devastated the local aquatic environment and put residents at risk with poisonous substances associated with it on life health. Following this, many families where evacuated but what about the environmental partners around the spill

Mining Disasters
Mining also has had its share on environmental pollution. The spill from large mining confinement have due to some mess-ups spilled and found their way into environments and the result of that is devastating effects on the lives around the spills. Uranium known to cause cancers, organ damage, miscarriages and other birth defects is one of the minerals that are mined daily in developed countries such as United States, Canada, Russia and other countries in Europe. Drilling this radioactive material has been found to contaminate underground water such as rivers and springs which is a dangerous activity to people and any life around the mining areas.

Oil Industry Disasters
Oil industry too has had its share in environmental damage. Massive oil spill has been recorded in various seas. The oil spill is considered as one of todays greatest environmental disasters in the history of the Mediterranean Sea. This environmental disaster began with the leaking of oil into the sea after Israeli aircrafts targeted oil tanks in the Jiyyeh south of Beir. This is reportedly going to coast governments huge sums of money to a tune of 70million dollars for a clean up exercise. Even after this is done the after math of the spill has left rueful effects which will have Impacts on the Environment, on Human health, on Tourism, Biodiversity, and Fishing Industry.

Some of the biological impacts after an oil spill can include physical and chemical alteration of natural habitats such as when oil is incorporated into sediments, physical smothering effect on the marine life, lethal or sub-lethal toxic effects on the marine life, changes in the marine ecosystem resulting from oil effects on key organisms e.g. increased abundance of inter-tidal algae following the death of limpets which normally eat the algae.

Nuclear Disasters
In all environmental disaster events humans have caused, nuclear disasters have the possible greatest damage potential. The radiation release from nuclear leakage poses the significant acute and chronic risks in the immediate environs and that of a wide geographical range area. Radioactive contamination, which typically becomes airborne, is long-lived, withhalf-livesguaranteeing contamination for hundreds and hundreds of years.

Concerns have been voiced over potential nuclear disasters centre on nuclear reactors, typically those used to generate electric power. Other concerns involve the transport of nuclear waste and the temporary storage ofspent radioactive fuelat nuclear power plants. The fear that terrorists would target a radiation source or create a bomb capable of dispersing radiation over a populated area was added to these concerns following the 2001 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington. All this points the disasters risks that have been heightened by human hand on environment.

Industrial Disasters
Most industrialized countries like United States, Canada, Britain and now China have experienced incomparable economic growth in recent years. The growth needs space for expansion in urban centres and this has increased use of resources in turn exposed local populations to environmental risks.

National laws regulate land use and emergency planning, but there is still a lack of proper monitoring and implementation of guidelines, and the corporate sector, the regulating authorities and civil society in general need to implement some serious changes in behaviour. Huge manufacturing industries such as oil refineries, or chemical plants keep on expanding on their workplace in terms of manpower and space and this has refuse that are associated with it which have impacted the environment.

CONCLUSION
Are all these environmental disasters administered fairly and practically
The question on whether the environmental disasters are being administered and fairly practically managed remains a bone of contention. All round the world we are every now and again receiving tragedies arising from various disasters that have occurred due to environment. Disasters ranging from landslide and mudslides to earthquakes to floods and many more keep increasing. All these disasters when studied they are all linked directly or indirectly to environment degradation and as such, disasters of such kind have gone on the rise.

Having said what environmental disasters are and what are their causative agents, governments such as United States, China, and other countries in Europe do not seem to care right from the disaster causing agents and so find ways to sustain these disasters.

Agriculture
With ever growing populations in most countries, various governments have found it difficult to provide sufficient food to their population. The squeeze has left most of these governments on the verge of exploiting the available land irrespective of the farming practices and methods some of which are a disaster in waiting to the environment and also to humans.

Natural vegetation cover which provided as wind breaker, soil cover from erosion, a home for most living nature has been destroyed. The governments have gone silent in land resource management thus creating a weak environmental foundation. Always a weak environmental foundation results to various disasters in waiting.

Poor or no Soil Conservation has been addressed
People are often engaging in poor farming methods thus exploiting the land
Use of pesticides and other crop chemicals some of which have had adverse effects on the environment.

There is lack of training to the farmers practicing agriculture on the possible safe techniques and skills of farming while at the same time conserving the environment.

The above ill practices are intertwined with various social and ecological institutions and factors which have left environment vulnerable. The above human artefacts brought about by the pressure from the large societies to produce more, and the support from government institutions in the form of loans and credit have all contributed to the creation of the environmental dust bowl. Underlying the environmental disaster is now widespread taking human toll. Communities founded in agriculture but now the places of education, trade, communications, medical care, legal services, culture, and identity, were deeply shaken or destroyed causing a fragile environmental foundation which the governments are not addressing, instead a waiting for disasters to happen for the action to be decided and not on the factors that have caused the disasters but to compensate the victims and again wait

Industrialization and Urbanization
The growth of urban centres and industrial towns and industries in general has been witnessed in the present decade. With the expansion of industries and growth of urban centres means most lands on which this growth and expansion is taking place now is land that some of which has been fatal for our environment. But, with less regulatory framework and proper environmental policies from various governments and their agencies, this land has disappeared to pave way for industries and urban centres with no regard to the environment exposing all environmental disasters such as flooding, mud and landslides and huge temperatures and untamed air pollution.

Mining and Oil transportation
Looking at the risks that are involved in oil drilling and transportation process, most analysts consistently acknowledge that there are a dozen disasters in waiting either arising from the drilling and the wastes disposal challenges. The recent oil spill off the coast of Louisiana is one such example of an environmental tragedy that endangers the prosperity of coastal businesses that thrive on the natural environment, such as fishing and tourism.  The disaster unwrapped how the US government has been doing the talking and not the acting to protect and avoid such disasters. The spill exposed no policies to protect and manage disasters of such magnitude which will cause dire consequences for years to come not only for the living nature but also to the changes that will come with that are associated with the environment.

The World Bank and the International Finance Corporation
The international finance bodies namely world bank and International Finance corporation whom are at fore front in releasing funds for development projects in developing countries in assisting building infrastructure have failed to fund and monitor environmental projects. With the worlds population heading a 9 billion population of people and most of them in poor countries the international money lending instructions have failed to note how lending is going to help grow economies in such countries without erasing the planets natural assets.

The banks seem to be doing their share in reconstruction and helping the victims of environmental disasters but there is little to be desired on preventive and management of disasters if they recur. The most practical and fair way to proclaim and manage disasters arising from the environment is addressing the environmental challenges and conservation which does not seem to be the case with such international monetary institutions for development.

As long as the environment is neglected and uncared for, its degradation will only mean gradual accumulation of catastrophes due to disasters in waiting. There is need to make more investment in both structural and non-structural policies and training on environmental conservation if the disasters arising from environment are to be mitigated.

London is an urban environment and one can say that it is not an area suitable for growing crops. Nonetheless, London has its share of produce although it is not as much compared to other parts of Europe and the rest of England.

London is known to produce grapes, aubergines, potatoes, cauliflowers and cabbages. There is however no data indicating the amount of produce London contributes. What constitutes mostly of Londons produce comes from urban agriculture which includes backyard grown crops and crops grown in schools. Being the center of trade in England, it is not expected to have large farmlands (Petts 8).

The climate in London however may be deemed appropriate for growing crops. The climate in this bursting metropolis is temperate. It has a modest temperature during summer although it summers from heat waves because of the exhaust from vehicles. There is a lot of rain in London but only in the forms of drizzles. While London also experiences snow, it is nothing harsh. It is often only a few millimeters deep (Climate in London England).

Global warming however poses a threat to Londons climate which is apt for growing crops. Global warming is expected to bring increasing risks of flooding, droughts and extremely high temperatures (London Climate Change Partnership). With this change in temperature it is expected that some crops grown in England will not be able to adapt.

In the future, global warming can cause mutations in crops which can make it a hazard to human health. Ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays have been found to increase the rate of gene mutation. Eating mutated crops can cause unprecedented health hazards.