Thinking ecologically

Question 1

What is the photosynthesis equation?

Answer 1

6CO2 + 6H2O (+energy) -> C6H12O6

Question 2

What happens to the photosynthesis equation when fossil fuels are burned?

Answer 2

The equation goes the other way and extra carbon is added to the atmosphere.

Question 3

Example of biological approaches to taking up CO2 from the atmosphere
(peatlands)

Answer 3

Peatlands- C removed by photosynthesis is sequestered

Question 4

What is carbon offsetting?

Answer 4

A carbon offset is a reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide or greenhouse gases made in order to compensate for or to offset an emission made elsewhere.

Question 5

What are the issues with carbon offsetting?

Answer 5

Normalises harmful behaviour
May encourage more C emissions
Land use conflict

Question 6

What are alternative energy generations?

Answer 6

“renewables” all use solar energy directly or indirectly

Question 7

Society-economy-equity issues of biofuel example?

Answer 7

Ariza-Montobbio et al 2010. Jatropha in India
- Grows on wasteland, should be a win-win situation BUT
- In practice, current
economics favour richer farmers, while poorer ones remain marginalized, possibly more than before

Question 8

Consequences for small farmers and consumers in countries where maize staple crop:

Answer 8

Increased demand for maize as food raises price on global market
Local prices also rise, making maize too expensive for poor people (e.g. Mexico)