Nt1310 Unit 3 Project Study

3. Comparison of the three different projects

The three projects use different technologies but acheive the same goals. Two of the three projects are renewable solutions (Dams and marine current turbines). However, all of them can have catastrophic impacts on the environment, on population and fisheries such as habitat loss, air and water pollution, and community displacement. Alternative solutions exist, however, they may not be necessary as some the negative impacts of these existing projects could be reduced or even eliminated if the projects were carried out in a more effective manner. Dam building has to be substituted with the use of more renewable resources like wind farms or solar panels. In the case of marine turbines, the study of the ecosystem before the construction of turbines can benefit the construction of a more sustainable solution. In addition, the study of better systems that connect the turbines to the grid could reduce the costs associated with the project. The creation of desalination plants can be seen, as the only method to have available water resources. However, there is a need to integrate it in a system that facilitates different resources that reduce water use. This can include water conservation itself, “repair of infrastructure, and improved catchment and distribution systems” (Elimelech et Phillip, 2011). Similarly

Discuss sustainability in the context of ecological footprints. To become sustainable, what changes does global society need to make with regards to (a) food production and consumption, (b) energy demand for electricity and transportation purposes, and (c) water use and treatment. How does population size contribute to the problem and what are some of the potential population-specific opportunities regarding