The Resources and Human Impact Interactive E-book examines the role society plays in environmental degradation and the technological solutions that arise in response to environmental issues. Human beings modify components of Earth’s ecosystems as they use and consume available resources. The amount and rate of consumption are affected by population growth and access to technology. Technology can solve problems, but at the same time, it can also create new strains on the environment. Because of the rapid growth of the human population and the expanded use of technology in many parts of the world, humans are exceeding the carrying capacity of the environment, compromising human health, and disrupting natural cycles. Our role in changing the environment means that we have a responsibility to preserve our habitat. While there are a variety of approaches to reducing or reversing the human impact on the environment, social, political, and economic factors have trade-offs that will strongly influence technology development and use.
*Interactive E-books are highly interactive, self-directed learning experiences designed to augment understanding of science content and pedagogy. These e-books include high-resolution images, animations, videos and interactive simulations.