Introduction to Environmental Science

VizComm

Introduction to Environmental Science

I. Overview of Environmental Science
A. Definition of Environmental Science
B. Importance of Studying Environmental Science
C. Historical Development of Environmental Science

II. Interdisciplinary Nature of Environmental Science
A. Introduction to Interdisciplinary Approaches
B. Fields Contributing to Environmental Science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Sociology)
C. Importance of Collaboration in Addressing Environmental Issues

III. Foundations of Environmental Science
A. Earth as a System
B. Basic Earth Processes (e.g., Water Cycle, Carbon Cycle, Rock Cycle)
C. Introduction to Ecosystems and Ecological Principles

IV. Human Population and Environmental Impact
A. Population Growth and Trends
B. Impact of Human Activities on the Environment (e.g., Pollution, Habitat Destruction, Climate Change)
C. Introduction to Sustainability and Carrying Capacity

V. Environmental Ethics and Values
A. Introduction to Environmental Ethics
B. Major Ethical Perspectives (e.g., Anthropocentrism, Biocentrism, Ecocentrism)
C. The Role of Values and Worldviews in Environmental Decision Making

VI. Environmental Policy and Regulation
A. Introduction to Environmental Policy
B. Major Environmental Laws and Regulations (e.g., Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act)
C. Challenges and Opportunities in Environmental Policy Implementation

VII. Key Concepts Review
A. Summary of Key Concepts Covered in the Chapter
B. Review Questions and Exercises