| Papers [113-126] of 2457 :: [Page 9 of 176] | | Go to page : <— 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 —> | |
|
|
Urban Pollution in Beijing and Toronto, 2008.
This paper compares the urban pollution problems of Toronto and Beijing by evaluating the consequences of different environmental forms and how each city is addressing this pollution.
1,450 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 10 sources, MLA, £ 29.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that Beijing is very much a heavy industrial city dominated by fuel and material processing facilities with a high population density although signs of western-style suburbanization are appearing. The author points out that Toronto, which is cleaner and less dependent upon massive industrial works, is well-known for carefully weighing the implications of various urban design proposals upon local communities and has a less dense population; however, this city has the problem of more local vehicles causing far too much greenhouse emission. The paper stresses that China is not doing its part to combat global warming. The paper concludes that Beijing's infrastructure pales alongside Toronto's because its mass as a global "mega-city" makes it difficult for city planners to construct a city capable of comfortably accommodating its population.
From the Paper
"At this juncture, it is appropriate to look more closely at Toronto in terms of its urban build form and in terms of commonplace life-style activities in the city that have some environmental impact. Unsurprisingly, the habitation density in the outer part of the city is much lesser than it is within the interior. The buildings are more widely-spaced and more diminutive in height; there are also many plazas and these plazas tend to have small retail stores within their embrace that accommodate almost all of the needs of a local inhabitant. Finally, there is plenty of "green space" in this area."
| |
|
Mega-cities and Air Pollution, 2008.
This paper compares Toronto and Seoul's solutions to their problems of air pollution.
1,258 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 25.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper examines Toronto and Seoul, South Korea and their air pollution problems as a result of growth and development in their respective countries. The paper explains that the main source of air pollution is cars and trucks. The paper also discusses how Toronto has emphasized public transit as a solution, while the government of Seoul has emphasized new technologies and the development of new methods of public transportation.
Outline:
Introduction
Toronto
Seoul
From the Paper
"The city of Toronto, with a population of 2.4 million people, lies at the heart of the Greater Toronto Area; an urban region with a total population of 4.6 million people. When environmental scientists and geographers discuss environmental questions for Toronto it is often necessary to take into consideration the megacity as a whole for issues of pollution and environmental impact are felt region-wide in such a sprawling urban environment. Indeed, as was noted in the urban cross-section that was conducted which compared and contrasted two urban forms in Toronto, the phenomenon of urban sprawl is a primary characteristic of the urban forms in Toronto. Moreover, transportation infrastructures were identified as key determinants of the urban forms in both the northern Toronto and downtown core areas, with the primary difference being the increased role of public transit in the downtown core."
| |
|
Water Safety in Mega Cities, 2008.
This paper looks at the issue of unsafe water supplies in the mega cities of the developing world.
984 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, £ 20.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article the writer notes that in the early 21st century, the mega cities of the developing world are facing an unprecedented series of environmental pressures. These are all ultimately due to the rapidly accelerating growth and development of such urban areas, whose immense populations and industries are negatively impacting local and regional environments on a significant scale. The writer argues that, while the poor of these cities face many challenges as a result of development - from poor nutrition to poor sanitation, air pollution and housing crises, the unsafe water supplies of these cities is the most urgent problem that they face.
From the Paper
"Scholars studying the issue of safe water supplies in the mega cities of the developing world agree that the nature of this development problem is shaped by its context. In this regard, there are two primary factors that we must consider. First, the development of the mega cities of the developing world is radically different than the development of mega cities in the developed world as in the latter case development was gradual, while in the former it is accelerated. Thus, while cities such as New York had a century to develop water systems to cope with growth, the cities of the developing world have had only a generation. Consider, for example, the fact that the population of Mexico City in 1950 was 3.1 million, and a generation later, in 1980, was 13.4 million. The second primary factor is that while in the developed world mega cities their economies grew in close parallel to the growth of the cities' populations, in the developing world this connection is far more uncertain."
| |
|
ESI and Climate Change, 2008.
This paper discusses the World Economic Forum's environmental sustainability index (ESI) model as a response to climate change.
2,105 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 15 sources, MLA, £ 39.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article the writer explains that the environmental sustainability index or ESI is a valuable tool that allows markets and countries to determine where they need to commit additional resources in order to affect positive change and where they are being successful at reducing climate changing activities. The writer notes that Canada has enacted extensive environmental legislation before and, because of its inclusion in the ESI rankings as a regular high-scoring participant, holds this legislation up as a model for other countries to follow. The writer concludes that perhaps one of the greatest uses of the ESI is as a measure or predictor for democratic effectiveness or reform in developing countries because where one sits on the ESI and the given ranking can be used to make certain assumptions about economic status, economic growth, and political reform or need thereof as they relate to direct and indirect impacts on climate change.
Outline:
The World Economic Forum
The ESI
Factors Within the ESI
A Working Model
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Strict adherence to this readily verifiable and repeatable methodology ensures that the figures can be taken at face value without the burden of compiling an independent data set. The rationale for inclusion in the ESI study as discussed above is based on three selected criteria: country size, variable coverage, and indicator coverage. Additionally, when greater cross-referencing is needed to substantiate data or outcomes, predetermined denominators are utilized to facilitate comparisons."
"The leading indicators that are measured in the ESI are separated into five components which together contain twenty-one measured indicators that each relate in some fashion to Parker and Blodgett's lens paradigm."
| |
|
Responses to Global Warming, 2008.
This paper discusses the role of science, knowledge and risk in environmental problems such as global warming.
2,677 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 48.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that the planet is currently facing the challenge and danger of global warming. The writer maintains that science and technology have brought us to this crisis, in that industrialization has led to global warming. It seems highly likely that we will have to rely on these very same things, i.e. science and technology, to rescue us from the peril we are in due to global warming. Within the ambit of scientific responses to global warming, two basic kinds of response exist: mitigation of global warming, or adaptation to the effects of global warming. This paper examines the research to determine which approach seems more appropriate and useful for saving ourselves from global warming. It recommends that we look to adaptation using science and technology, as mitigation has clearly failed.
Outline:
Abstract
Essay
From the Paper
"Examples include sequestering carbon in trees. This would involve planting a vast number of trees, because trees take in carbon dioxide. They incorporate in into their leaves, roots and stems via photosynthesis. Due to the long life of trees, this would mean that the carbon had been sequestered away from the environment for about 100 years. Another approach is carbon management, in which carbon dioxide emitted during the burning of carbon fuels is caught and then sequestered away from the atmosphere. The question of course is where to store it. One suggestion is to sequester it in the ocean. The problem with this solution is that we do not know what the long-term effects on the ocean would be. In addition, the technologies to capture carbon dioxide emissions are still in the very early stages. Fertilizing the ocean with iron is an innovative idea propounded by an oceanographer in 1987."
| |
|
Computers, E-waste and Obsolescence, 2008.
This paper discusses the quick obsolescence of expensive computers and problems related to their disposal.
1,963 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 13 sources, MLA, £ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper explores the obsolescence of expensive computers and how rampant electronic waste causes harm to developing nations environmentally, socially and economically. The paper suggests that more money and creativity should be applied to the problem of how to make computer-generated e-waste a less pressing concern. The paper includes an annotated bibliography.
From the Paper
"It has been argued, with increasing stridency in recent years, that the United States and other western countries are exporting their waste around the world ("Old PCs dumped in developing nations," 14). Of especial note, Frederick Buell writes that the United States has embraced the "growth fetish" and has sought to use globalization to achieve this; at the same time, it appears as though (at least this was the case during the Clinton Administration) U.S. leaders have made a conscious choice to simply pursue an upgrade of the old "brown" economy (57-58). Buell also writes that the developing world exports industries that are prone to pollution, exports industries that contain obvious health risks to workers, and exports practices (such as recycling batteries as part of an ongoing effort to reclaim their lead contents) that can easily lead (and do lead) to high levels of toxicity in the local ecology."
| |
|
How do Ethnic Economies Shape the Urban Landscape?, 2008.
This paper argues that ethnic economies shape the urban landscape in many tangible and economic ways.
2,994 words (approx. 12.0 pages), 4 sources, APA, £ 53.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper argues that ethnic economies, (using "economy" as a term that can entail a wide range of human interactions and inter-relationships), allow for the re-organization of the social space of a community, with different parts of the same town assuming the trappings of the particular group that resides there. The paper discusses how ethnic economies compel a re-thinking of old assumptions, offer new potentialities for social justice and invigorate the consumer cultures of urban centers. The paper concludes that ethnic economies are vital to the vibrancy of any city.
From the Paper
"As mentioned at the outset, ethnic economies shape (and re-shape) the urban landscape in a host of ways. To begin with, ethnic economies are characterized by their transnational diasporas, as peoples from one nation "set up shop" in another land and carve out a territorial, economic, and socio-cultural (to say nothing of socio-linguistic) niche for themselves in an alien environment. To the extent that any economy (be it moral, industrial, philosophical or some other entity) must be orderly and have a well-organized, functional arrangement of its constituent elements, it may be said that the proper functioning of the ethnic diasporas that transformed Canada in the latter-half of the twentieth century (and certainly today) cannot function without well-ordered internal communities bound together by strong social and familial bonds and by close connections with a much-larger global ethnic network that allows "hyphenated" Canadians to maintain all of their various affiliations without losing sight of the pre-eminent fact that they are members of a specific ethnic and/or racial group."
| |
|
Global Warming in Australia and Worldwide, 2008.
An analysis of global warming and climate threats examined on a local (Brisbane), national (Australia), and global level.
1,390 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, APA, £ 27.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines the climate threat of global warming on three different levels. First, on a local level, it examines the climate in Brisbane, Australia, a city that has experienced considerate climactic upheaval in recent years. Second, it examines the climate of Australia as a whole, a hot continent once renowned for its position below the largest hole in the ozone layer. Third, it examines the global climate. The paper maintains that, at local, national and international levels, climate threats are a very important, current concern. The paper concludes that, though climate threat has represented itself in Australia and Brisbane primarily under the guise of drought, heat, and decreased rain levels, on a global level this threat is represented by a wider variety of problems.
Outline:
Introduction
The Local Community: Brisbane
Throughout the Nation: Australia
Across the Globe
Maps (Appendix 1-3)
From the Paper
"The map of Brisbane (Appendix 1) demonstrates the water shortage problem in Brisbane. Climactically, this is one of Brisbane's biggest threats, as the city turns to the possibility of recycling sewage for drinking water. Light scattered rainfall is observable on the map south of Brisbane, towards the Gold Coast, in the Beenleigh, Logan and Coomera regions - though this rain stops short of Southport. Queensland mainland to the north of the map is experiencing no rain - a problem which has plagued farmers in the region for some time. Brisbane and the Greater Brisbane Area (Archerfield and Boondall) are also experiencing no rain. Scattered showers are continually hitting the same areas around Brisbane - the Gold Coast and some of the islands off the coast. The same local areas (Brisbane, and inland and north Queensland) are continually suffering, on the other hand, from high temperatures and no water."
| |
|
Environmental Literature, 2008.
This paper compares the writings of Neil Evernden in "The Natural Alien" and William Leiss in "Under Technology's Thumb".
1,925 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, £ 36.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that Neil Evernden in "The Natural Alien" impressively sweeps over the course of human history and the evolution of human thought demonstrating that reality consists in what one sees, and that one only sees what is important to one. The author points out that Evernden seems to be so obsessed with the "how" of how we talk about the environment that he seems to lose sight of the real issue. The paper then relates that William Leiss's chief focus in "Under Technology's Thumb" is to urge humankind to move away from domination of the earth and instead to move towards caring and respect for the earth. The author stresses that the sheer scholarship of both books is impressive. The paper concludes that neither writer had anything concrete or useful to say about the key issue that faces us today: sustainability.
From the Paper
"Indeed, if we could bring the social and other effects of our technologies into line with the fundamental value of sustainability, then we might have a hope of surviving to the next millennium and beyond. However, when we come to examine what practical help Leiss offers us with this ambition, he too falls short. True, he offers us his interesting and well-argued philosophy of "caring," and a compelling argument, in this context, against consumerism. It may well be true, as Leiss argues, that most people derive more satisfaction from caring for others than from consumerism."
| |
|
Urban Economic Geography, 2008.
This paper explores neo-liberalism and its implications for the North American urban environment.
2,803 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, £ 50.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper analyzes neo-liberalism within the context of urban economic geography, while simultaneously providing an analysis that shows its progress and impact within the North American region. The paper focuses on the economic implications of neo-liberalism and discusses how, since there are challenges to neo-liberalism, it is imperative that central themes related to the urban economic geography be analyzed. The paper includes color graphs, charts and diagrams.
Outline:
Introduction
Understanding Urban Economic Geography
Neo-liberalism and Urban Restructuring
Growth of Neo-liberalism in North America - Some Contradictions for Urban Economic Geography
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The paper will provide a unique outlook on geographic thought, since it will be done with the necessary analytical tools used in the social sciences. Urban economic geography is one of the few specializations that can simultaneously analyze a complex issue such as neo-liberalism and its economic and political implications in the domestic and international realm and aspects of urban geography. The analysis will provide some insight into the spatial geographic development within the US as the issue is examined within the urban context."
| |
|
Urban Sprawl, 2008.
This paper addresses the issue of urban sprawl in Toronto and Ontario.
1,116 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, APA, £ 23.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper discusses how the urban areas of Ontario and Toronto are experiencing urban sprawl. The paper describes the characteristics of urban sprawl and how it can be measured. The paper looks at urban sprawl's negative impacts on the environment, taxpayers and on the population's cultural and social life. The paper offers recommendations for future land-use development that will sustainably manage growth and discourage urban sprawl.
Outline:
Issue
Analysis
Recommendations
From the Paper
"Urban sprawl is not easy to define. "To paraphrase the United States Supreme Court's long-ago ruling on pornography, most people can't define sprawl--but they know it when they see it" (Fulton et al, 2001). Urban sprawl is a phenomenon that occurs around metropolitan areas, usually represented by suburbs, and it involved the spread of cities and the urbanization or areas around it previously undeveloped, used for agriculture or green fields and forests.
"There are several characteristics of urban sprawl by which it can be recognized. First, the land-use is segregated and usually entails single use zoning. This means that residential, commercial and industrial areas are separated from one another. Often there are large undeveloped, empty areas between them. Because these areas are separated, traveling from one to the other can only be done with a car."
| |
|
"Himalayan Perceptions", 2008.
An analysis and review of "Himalayan Perceptions: Environmental Change and the Well-Being of Mountain Peoples," written by Jack Ives.
1,090 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 23.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper provides a summary and analysis of Jack Ives' book, "Himalayan Perceptions: Environmental Change and the Well-Being of Mountain Peoples". The paper looks at the book in context of the author's other writings and analyzes the purpose and viability of the research that was done for it. The paper also provides the writer of this paper's opinion regarding the book and Ives's position regarding the Himalayan ecosystem.
From the Paper
"Ives uses a compelling methodology followed by a strong amount of research. He structures the book to show the problem. By focusing on the area and its environmental problems first, he sets a tone that does not simply invalidate the fact that there are problems with the Himalayan ecosystem. He offers strong evidence to show that the natural disasters are real. However, he does not merely end there, but continues to show that the common perceptions are incorrect. As an example, he quotes an article the Basler Zeitung, which states, "The severe floods in eastern India and Bangladesh are not the result of a natural disaster, but of the ruthless exploitation of the forests which has been practised over many centuries in the Himalayas" (103). Ives then spends the rest of the chapter offering evidence that shows that this belief is incorrect. By doing this, he acknowledges the common belief, then uses research and facts to prove that common belief to be incorrect. This example is one of many, but it shows that Ives is not merely trying to remove an old lie and replace it with a new one, but rather to effectively communicate a new perspective that is founded on research and facts."
| |
|
Trans-Border Pollution, 2008.
This paper examines the policies of Canada and the United States vis-a-vis trans-border air pollution.
1,730 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 8 sources, APA, £ 33.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper looks at the 1991 Air Quality Agreement between the two nations and the 2000 Ozone Annex. The paper briefly discusses some of the key measures implemented and to what extent each country is guilty of reneging on its environmental commitments. The paper concludes that both nations are pushing ahead, but shows how the pace of change could and should be increased.
From the Paper
"To start with, both Canada and the United States have worked cooperatively to reduce trans-border or trans-boundary pollution. To wit, as early as 1991 the two countries signed an agreement - the Canada-US Air Quality Agreement - wherein each pledged to reduce trans-boundary air pollution contributing to acid rain. Specifically, both nations agreed to implement measures reducing emissions of sulphur dioxide as well as nitrogen oxides. Both nations agreed to work together as well to develop the scientific and technical tools necessary for eliminating (or at least greatly reducing) acid rain levels in North America (Environment Canada, 2006). A little more than 9 years later, in December of 2000, the two countries also came together and signed an Ozone Annex that established benchmarks for reducing the "trans-boundary flow" of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, as well as reducing the flow and production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (Environment Canada, 2006). Understandably, both of these measures deserve to be looked at more closely insofar as they appear to constitute the foundations of both countries' approach to trans-boundary air pollution."
| |
|
"Pedestrianizing" Urban Areas, 2008.
An argument for the "pedestrianization" of urban areas in Vancouver.
864 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, £ 18.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the importance of child friendly spaces in urban areas. It suggests that children and other pedestrians are often not taken into account when planning urban areas. The paper argues that Commercial Drive in the Grandview Woodlands Park Area of Vancouver, BC should be "pedestrianized" and vehicular traffic should be diverted from the area. The paper briefly describes the benefits of such a move.
From the Paper
"I would argue that these youthful rebels are correct - the space occupied by vehicular traffic on Commercial Drive should be allocated to children, youth and other residents. The No. 20 bus could easily be diverted to run on Victoria Drive for the section of road between Venables and 1st Avenue - or possibly even as far as Broadway. This should make the entire area a true children's paradise, where children could wander safely, without fear of traffic. It would also reduce the pollution that currently sails into the park and the schools, polluting the lungs of children. And it would facilitate the interaction of younger and older residents in a stress-free environment. The street could be converted into a park-cum-public space. All in all, Commercial Drive should be pedestrianized to create a much-needed public space for all local residents, thus facilitating inter-generational contact, and making the area safer and healthier for children."
|
|
|
