Some Environmental Questions?

[Spencer]

1)a) Americans are polarized when it comes to climate change: fewer than half of us are alarmed or concerned and many remain doubtful or dismissive. Using the terms and definitions from Stephanie Kaza’s ecopsychology lecture and Amy’s lecture on environmental ethics and principles, discuss where this spectrum of response may come from. Describe psychological reactions, worldviews, and evolving ethical frameworks that may contribute to our national response to this global phenomenon.

2) b) Agroecology is the study of the integrative ecology of our entire food system. As an alternative to conventional food production, how does agroecology address ecological, economic and social dimensions as described by the “triple bottom line” emphasis of sustainability? Describe each dimension with examples and discuss how agroecological practices are or are not increasing our regional and national sustainability.

[Bea]

Climate deniers often claim that global warming is a "global socialist agenda" Even the World Bank — an entity committed to free market capitalism — has recently weighed in on the threat of climate change and the urgency of acting to combat global warming. The report, urges nations to work to prevent the Earth from warming 7.2 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) past preindustrial averages.