ENVR 1301-Rozalee, Guitron

Introduction: While researching environmental concerns, I came across two articles discussing the risks associated with microplastics and PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances). Microplastics are very small pieces of plastic that are in the environment, which is when things we use, such as a water bottles break down. Microplastics get where they are because of the industrial waste and the breakdown of the plastics. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in various industries and consumer products since the 1940s. Known for their resistance to water and grease, they are commonly found in nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. However, PFAS are persistent in the environment and the human body, raising concerns about potential health risks, including links to cancer and other serious conditions. Due to their durability, they are often referred to as "forever chemicals." The first article points out that these substances have actually...

Air Pollution Basics Sulfur Pollutants Sulfur pollutants, mainly sulfur dioxide (SO₂), come from burning fuels like coal and oil, which power plants and factories. When this gas mixes with water in the air, it makes acid rain, which can harm buildings, plants, and bodies of water. It also makes breathing harder for people with asthma or other lung problems. Freedman (2018) explains that efforts like using cleaner fuels and adding filters to smokestacks have helped lower sulfur pollution over time (pp. 366-381). Nitrogen Pollutants Nitrogen pollutants, mostly nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) (together called NOx), come from car engines and factories. These gases mix with sunlight and cause smog and ground-level ozone, which can irritate the lungs and make asthma worse. NO₂ also plays a role in creating acid rain and causes water pollution by encouraging the overgrowth of algae. Freedman (2018) points out that nitrogen pollution get...

  Six-Point Critical Analysis of Current Event   1. Exploratory   The article by Hsu & Kelly (2019) explains how solar energy in Georgia has changed . Even though Georgia isn’t very strict when it comes to renewable energy. A notable example is the solar farm in Hazlehurst wh ich is ar ound 500 acres . This shows that renewable energy is starting to appear in more  rural areas . The video from Silicon Ranch s how cases that not only is it focusing on clean energy, but also focusing on farming .   The growth that Georgia has had in solar energy proves that there are many wa ys to promo te renewable energy other than state mandates. This shows   that policies may not always be needed for progression and change. Comparing Georgia with other states , for example the way California's state mandates show how the differences can  accomplish the same goal s in the end.   2. Diagnostic   The main reason why Solar energy ...