9: Political and Economic Issues Flashcards
(236 cards)
1
Q
What is biodiversity?
A
The number and variety of plant and animal species on Earth, including genetic variation within individual species.
Biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem health and resilience.
2
Q
What is climate change?
A
A rise in the average temperature of the Earth, primarily caused by emissions from burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas.
Climate change has significant impacts on weather patterns and sea levels.
3
Q
How can environmental issues vary in scope?
A
They can involve local matters, provincial and national matters, and global matters.
Examples include local natural areas, clean-air laws, and climate change.
4
Q
What does this chapter focus on regarding Canadian governance?
A
How governance and economics connect to environmental issues that concern Canadians.
This includes citizenship and identity.
5
Q
What does the chapter encourage readers to do with current newspapers?
A
Thumb through today’s newspaper for articles related to environmental issues and consider their impact on quality of life.
This helps in understanding the importance of government regulation and monitoring.
6
Q
How do decisions about environmental issues affect society?
A
They affect the development of resources, jobs, and quality of life.
This highlights the interconnectedness of environmental and economic factors.
7
Q
What two environmental issues are used as models in this chapter?
A
Climate change and biodiversity.
These issues serve as examples for understanding other environmental and political/economic issues.
8
Q
What is one focus question regarding political and economic decisions in Canada?
A
What political and economic decisions should Canadians make to respond to climate change?
This emphasizes the role of governance in addressing environmental challenges.
9
Q
Fill in the blank: Environmental issues involve _______ and economic decision making.
A
political
Understanding this relationship is essential for effective governance.
10
Q
What role does the chapter suggest individuals consider regarding environmental issues?
A
Your role in taking action on environmental issues.
Individual action can complement government efforts in addressing these issues.
11
Q
What should Canadians consider to protect biodiversity?
A
What political and economic decisions they should make.
Protecting biodiversity is essential for ecological balance and sustainability.
12
Q
What is the primary employment source for the person operating the feller buncher?
A
Alberta’s natural resources
The reliance on natural resources for employment indicates the importance of environmental decisions on job availability.
13
Q
How do decisions about the environment affect resource development and jobs?
A
They can significantly impact both resource availability and employment opportunities
Critical thinking about environmental decisions can lead to insights regarding economic outcomes.
14
Q
What choice did the individual make regarding transportation?
A
To ride a bike rather than drive
This choice may reflect personal values related to fitness and environmental concerns.
15
Q
What factors could influence a person’s choice to use a bicycle instead of a car?
A
Fitness and environmental concerns
These factors highlight the role of personal values in consumer behavior.
16
Q
What role could consumer behaviour play in addressing environmental issues?
A
It can influence demand for sustainable practices and products
Consumer choices can drive changes in industry practices and policies.
17
Q
What type of vehicle does Limmy MacDougall drive?
A
Caterpillar 797 dump truck
This vehicle is noted as the world’s largest dump truck.
18
Q
What is the purpose of the Caterpillar 797 dump truck in the context provided?
A
To pick up a load of oil sand at Syncrude Canada’s Aurora mine
The operation of such vehicles is crucial for resource extraction in Alberta.
19
Q
How could decisions regarding Alberta’s oil sands affect the environment?
A
They could lead to significant environmental impacts, including pollution and habitat destruction
Environmental consequences are a critical consideration in resource development.
20
Q
How could decisions about Alberta’s oil sands affect the quality of life of individuals and groups?
A
They might impact health, economic opportunities, and community well-being
Quality of life is influenced by environmental health and resource availability.
21
Q
What is the main focus of this section?
A
Environmental issues involving political and economic decision making
The section includes a mind map, a diagram, and student interviews.
22
Q
What are the key components to look for in this section?
A
- Why environmental issues are considered issues
- Connection to governance, economics, citizenship, and identity
- Perspectives from interviews relevant to environmental issues in Canada
23
Q
What federal law related to environmental issues was passed in 2007?
A
A law making energy-efficient light bulbs mandatory by 2012
This law addresses the environmental impact of electrical lighting.
24
Q
In what way is the law about energy-efficient light bulbs a political decision?
A
It involves governance in Canada
The law reflects governmental action to address environmental concerns.
25
In what way is the law about energy-efficient light bulbs an economic decision?
It involves producers and consumers
## Footnote
The law impacts market dynamics and consumer choices regarding lighting.
26
Fill in the blank: Environmental issues connect to ______, economics, citizenship, and identity.
governance
27
True or False: The section includes interviews with Grade 9 students regarding environmental issues.
True
28
What is an environmental issue?
Environmental issues arise because of human activities that change the natural world.
29
Give an example of an environmental issue.
Factories releasing toxins and other pollutants into the air or water.
30
How can housing developments contribute to environmental issues?
They occupy land that once supported wild plants and animals.
31
What is one aspect of environmental issues?
They involve different views and perspectives.
32
Who are the stakeholders in environmental issues?
Workers, Aboriginal Peoples, Companies, Governments, Environmental Organizations, Consumers.
33
What is a perspective of workers regarding environmental issues?
e.g., Construction workers, oil-rig workers, steel workers.
34
Why are Aboriginal Peoples concerned about environmental issues?
Their collective rights include rights to land and resources.
35
How do Aboriginal Peoples' traditional ways relate to environmental issues?
They connect to wild lands and wildlife.
36
What is a perspective of companies on environmental issues?
e.g., forestry companies, oil companies, mining companies.
37
What role do governments play in environmental issues?
They are influenced by the values that shape political parties in power.
38
What types of organizations are involved in addressing environmental issues?
e.g., school environment clubs, community organizations, provincial and national organizations.
39
What is an example of a provincial organization focused on environmental issues?
Alberta Wilderness Association.
40
What is an example of a national organization focused on environmental issues?
Pollution Probe.
41
How do consumers relate to environmental issues?
They create demand for products and services.
42
Fill in the blank: Citizenship is about building a society that includes _______.
everyone.
43
What are three examples of how environmental issues connect to quality of life?
Based on the mind map.
44
How are governance, economics, and environmental issues connected?
They are interconnected through laws, economic decisions, and consumer behavior that impact environmental quality.
## Footnote
Governance affects environmental laws, while economics involves resource use impacting the environment.
45
What part of governance relates to environmental issues?
Laws that affect the quality of the environment, including water quality laws.
## Footnote
Governance includes the creation and enforcement of these laws.
46
What is the role of Canada's federal political system in governance?
It creates and enforces the laws that govern Canada.
## Footnote
This includes laws that impact environmental quality.
47
What rights do Aboriginal peoples have in relation to environmental governance?
They have collective rights connected to the land.
## Footnote
These rights are crucial for the protection of traditional lands.
48
Where are the rights of individuals and groups in Canada outlined?
In the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Canada's constitution.
## Footnote
These documents establish the legal framework for rights in Canada.
49
How do economic decisions impact the environment?
They involve using natural resources to produce goods and services.
## Footnote
For example, forests are used to produce lumber.
50
What do economic decisions reflect?
Values related to different economic systems, such as mixed economies or market economies.
## Footnote
These systems influence resource allocation and environmental impact.
51
What role does consumerism play in the economy?
It makes consumers a powerful force influencing demand for products.
## Footnote
Consumer behavior can significantly impact environmental outcomes.
52
How does consumer behavior affect environmental issues?
It affects demand for products like gasoline and energy-efficient cars.
## Footnote
Changes in consumer preferences can lead to shifts in production and environmental impact.
53
What are some examples of opportunities and challenges in governance, economics, and environmental issues?
Opportunities can include sustainable resource management; challenges may involve pollution and resource depletion.
## Footnote
Identifying specific examples can help in understanding these dynamics.
54
What is the primary focus of this section?
The connection between political and economic decisions and climate change.
55
What type of data is presented in the maps included in this section?
Data related to climate change from Canada and the U.S.
56
What does the section include about individual action and climate change?
A comic and a profile of one student-action group.
57
What case study is discussed in this section?
Political and economic decision-making about climate change and Alberta's oil sands.
58
What international agreement on climate change is mentioned?
Kyoto Protocol.
59
What regional differences are highlighted regarding climate change?
Different regions will experience different impacts and emissions levels.
60
What are some examples of ways to take action on environmental issues?
Individual consumers, groups in society, and government involvement.
61
What critical thinking question is posed regarding regional differences?
Why might these regional differences affect political and economic decisions about climate change?
62
Fill in the blank: Climate change will affect the whole Earth, but _______ will not experience the same impacts.
[regions]
63
What types of perspectives should be looked for in this section?
Different perspectives on climate change in different regions of North America.
64
What questions should you consider to develop a more informed response to climate change?
How can you develop a more informed response? What is your informed position? What action do you need to take?
65
True or False: The section includes information solely about governmental responses to climate change.
False
66
What are greenhouse gases (GHGs)?
GHGs capture heat generated by the Sun's rays
## Footnote
They make Earth's atmosphere behave like a greenhouse, causing warming.
67
How do greenhouse gases affect temperature?
They cause Earth's average temperature to rise
## Footnote
This is due to a build-up of GHGs in the atmosphere.
68
What is climate change?
A rise in the average temperature of Earth due to GHGs
## Footnote
Predicted to have extensive and mostly negative impacts globally.
69
What are some predicted impacts of climate change?
* Rising sea levels
* More severe weather
* Disruption of ecosystems
* Disruption of freshwater supplies
## Footnote
These impacts are reported by the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
70
What are the primary sources of greenhouse gases?
Burning fossil fuels such as natural gas, gasoline, coal, and oil
## Footnote
Most economies rely on fossil fuels for resource production and transportation.
71
How do individual consumers contribute to greenhouse gas emissions?
By using fossil fuels to heat homes and drive cars
## Footnote
This contributes to the overall GHG emissions in the atmosphere.
72
Do regions that emit more greenhouse gases experience worse global warming?
No, they do not experience 'worse' global warming
## Footnote
Different regions will experience different impacts from climate change.
73
What regions face severe impacts from rising sea levels?
* Low-lying land areas
* New Orleans
* Bangladesh
## Footnote
These areas are particularly vulnerable to flooding.
74
What factors might influence North Americans' responses to climate change?
Regional differences in impacts and sources of GHGs
## Footnote
These differences connect to political and economic decision making.
75
What has been a notable impact of climate change in North America?
Increased frequency and severity of hurricanes
## Footnote
For example, Hurricane Katrina caused extensive flooding in New Orleans in 2005.
76
Fill in the blank: Climate change refers to a rise in the average temperature of Earth due to a build-up of _______ in the atmosphere.
greenhouse gases (GHGs)
## Footnote
This build-up leads to various environmental impacts.
77
What region of Canada will experience the most warming?
The specific region is not stated, but the context implies that northern regions may experience significant warming
## Footnote
The text mentions cities like Iqaluit, which are in northern Canada.
78
What is the predicted average temperature shift in Canada by 2099?
Predicted shifts include:
* More than 20 °C
* 15 to 20 °C
* 10 to 15 °C
* 5 to 10 °C
* Less than 5 °C
## Footnote
These temperature ranges indicate various levels of warming across different regions.
79
What are some predicted impacts of climate change on North America?
The following impacts are predicted:
* Flooding along coastlines
* Decline in abundance of fresh water (lakes and rivers)
* Loss of wildlife species overall
* More extreme weather events, such as storms and droughts
* Longer growing seasons, possibly resulting in higher crop yields and increased forest growth in some regions
## Footnote
These impacts are derived from predictions by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
80
True or False: Some wildlife species will adapt to warmer temperatures.
True
## Footnote
This indicates that while many species may be lost, some may find ways to survive in changing climates.
81
Fill in the blank: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change predicts more _______ weather events due to warmer temperatures.
[extreme]
## Footnote
Extreme weather events include storms and droughts.
82
What is one potential benefit of climate change mentioned in the text?
Longer growing seasons, possibly resulting in higher crop yields and increased forest growth in some regions
## Footnote
This suggests that while climate change has negative impacts, there may also be some positive outcomes in specific areas.
83
Where do most Inuit live in Canada?
In Canada's north, particularly in Nunavut.
84
What has influenced the Inuit way of life?
Roots in land and rights established in Canada's constitution and treaties.
85
What are the two major themes discussed regarding Inuit and other Canadians?
Governance and rights.
86
How might political and economic decisions affect the Inuit?
They are connected to climate change and affect the quality of life for the Inuit.
87
What role might Canada's economic system play in the Inuit's voice?
It may influence their governance and rights.
88
True or False: The Inuit have lived in Canada's north for only a few decades.
False
89
Fill in the blank: The Inuit population by census subdivision includes categories such as _______.
[2000+, 1000 to 1999, 500 to 999, 40 to 49]
90
What critical thinking challenge is posed regarding the Inuit?
Consider the role of governance and economic decisions in their quality of life.
91
What geographical features are mentioned in relation to Inuit life?
Baffin and Bylot Islands.
92
Which Canadian city is mentioned as a reference point for Inuit population distribution?
Iqaluit.
93
What major greenhouse gas makes up the majority of emissions?
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
## Footnote
CO2 is a significant contributor to climate change.
94
Which regions in Canada are explored for their GHG emissions?
Regional differences in emissions are explored across provinces and territories
## Footnote
This includes areas such as Whitehorse, Edmonton, Regina, Winnipeg, and others.
95
What is the significance of understanding regional differences in GHG sources?
It affects views and perspectives about needed action on climate change
## Footnote
Different regions may prioritize different actions based on their unique emissions profiles.
96
Which ocean borders Canada to the west?
Pacific Ocean
## Footnote
The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean on Earth.
97
Which ocean borders Canada to the east?
Atlantic Ocean
## Footnote
The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest ocean and separates North America from Europe and Africa.
98
What is the range of CO2 emissions for some regions in Canada?
Regions emit CO2 in ranges such as:
* 0-49,000 tonnes
* 50,000-99,000 tonnes
* 100,000-149,000 tonnes
* 150,000-200,000 tonnes
## Footnote
These ranges help in understanding the scale of emissions across different regions.
99
True or False: The Arctic Ocean is mentioned in the context of regional emissions.
True
## Footnote
The Arctic Ocean is one of the significant bodies of water relevant to Canada's geography and climate discussions.
100
What was the total GHG emissions in thousands of tonnes for British Columbia in 2005?
65 900
101
What province had the highest GHG emissions in 2005?
Alberta with 233 000
102
Which province's GHG emissions are primarily due to its manufacturing sector?
Ontario
103
What are the two main contributors to Alberta's large GHG output?
* Oil industry
* Coal-fired plants for generating electricity
104
What is one way to respond to climate change regarding industrial emissions?
Reducing GHG emissions from industry
105
What are two factors that shape the industries and plants in Alberta and Ontario?
* Laws and policies for pollution control
* Demand for energy and products
106
In 2005, what were the GHG emissions in thousands of tonnes for Nova Scotia?
22 700
107
Fill in the blank: Reducing GHG emissions involves _______ and economic decision making.
[political]
108
What percentage of total emissions did New Brunswick contribute in 2005?
3.1
109
True or False: GHG emissions from industry are unrelated to job creation.
False
110
What GHG emissions figure is recorded for Newfoundland and Labrador in thousands of tonnes?
14
111
What is the GHG emissions figure for Yukon in thousands of tonnes?
0.1
112
How do GHG emissions relate to quality of life? List at least one connection.
* Jobs
113
What is the GHG emissions figure for Saskatchewan in thousands of tonnes?
70 900
114
What is the GHG emissions figure for Manitoba in thousands of tonnes?
201 000
115
What is the GHG emissions figure for P.E.I. in thousands of tonnes?
2.280
116
What is the GHG emissions figure for NWT and Nunavut in thousands of tonnes?
0.2
117
What does GDP per capita measure?
How well-off the people of a country are
## Footnote
GDP per capita is often used to compare the economic performance of different countries.
118
What is the estimated population of Canada?
33 million
## Footnote
The population estimate is relevant for understanding GHG emissions in relation to the population size.
119
What is the GDP per capita of the United States?
$46,000
## Footnote
This figure is significant when comparing economic performance and emissions data.
120
Which country has the highest GHG emissions among Canada, the U.S., and Mexico?
United States
## Footnote
The U.S. accounts for 20% of global CO2 emissions.
121
What is the GDP per capita of Mexico?
$12,500
## Footnote
This figure indicates the economic status of Mexico in comparison to Canada and the U.S.
122
What percentage of global CO2 emissions does Canada account for?
2%
## Footnote
This percentage is important for contextualizing Canada's contribution to global emissions.
123
What percentage of global CO2 emissions does Mexico account for?
1.5%
## Footnote
Understanding Mexico's emissions is crucial for regional comparisons.
124
To what extent do GDP and population correlate with GHG emissions?
Support your answer with evidence
## Footnote
This question encourages critical thinking and analysis of data.
125
What role may the values underlying the U.S. economic system play?
Decisions about climate change
## Footnote
The economic values can influence policies and actions regarding emissions.
126
What was the U.S. stance on international climate change agreements in 2007?
The U.S. had not agreed to join international negotiations or agreements concerning climate change, such as the Kyoto Protocol.
## Footnote
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
127
Why do developed countries face GHG emission restrictions while developing countries do not?
Developed countries have a higher GHG output and contribute more to climate change. GHG restrictions can slow the economy of developing countries, which goes against their needs and interests.
## Footnote
Examples of developed countries include the U.S. and Canada; examples of developing countries include Mexico.
128
What was President George W. Bush's belief regarding human actions and climate change?
President Bush did not believe human actions were causing climate change.
## Footnote
This belief influenced his stance on international climate negotiations.
129
What did President Bush state in his 2008 State of the Union address regarding GHG emissions?
The U.S. would take action on its own to reduce GHG emissions, without entering into international agreements.
## Footnote
This was part of his broader view on respecting individual decisions and the free market.
130
Fill in the blank: In the context of climate change, President Bush emphasized the importance of _______.
the power of individuals
## Footnote
This reflects a belief in individual decision-making within the U.S. economic system.
131
How do individual consumer and producer decisions influence GHG emissions?
Decisions can push GHG emissions up or down based on supply and demand dynamics.
## Footnote
For example, choosing to buy electric vehicles can reduce emissions.
132
What values should shape economic decisions connected to climate change?
Values such as sustainability, responsibility, and equity should shape economic decisions.
## Footnote
These values reflect a commitment to addressing climate change while considering social impacts.
133
True or False: President Bush believed that international agreements on climate change should exempt developing countries from action.
False
## Footnote
President Bush believed that developing countries should also take action against climate change.
134
What is the Kyoto Protocol?
The first climate-change plan negotiated by countries of the world.
135
Did the U.S. agree to the Kyoto Protocol?
No, the U.S. did not agree to the plan.
136
When did Canada ratify the Kyoto Protocol?
In 2002 under the Liberal government.
137
What was the impact of Canada's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol?
It did not lead to decisions that reduced Canada's overall GHG emissions.
138
Which political party in Canada changed the stance on the Kyoto Protocol in 2006?
The Conservative government.
139
What did the Conservative government announce regarding the Kyoto Protocol?
Canada would not meet its targets under the Kyoto Protocol.
140
What reasons did the Conservative government give for not meeting Kyoto targets?
The targets would damage Canada's economy and GHG emissions were rising.
141
What significant event occurred in December 2007 in Bali, Indonesia?
An international meeting launched new negotiations on an agreement to fight climate change after 2012.
142
What was the main concern of environmental organizations regarding Canada and the U.S. positions on the Kyoto Protocol?
The positions may hinder effective action against climate change.
143
Fill in the blank: The Kyoto Protocol was negotiated to address _______.
climate change.
144
What is the Kyoto Protocol?
The first climate-change plan negotiated by countries of the world.
145
Did the U.S. agree to the Kyoto Protocol?
No, the U.S. did not agree to the plan.
146
When did Canada ratify the Kyoto Protocol?
In 2002 under the Liberal government.
147
What was the impact of Canada's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol?
It did not lead to decisions that reduced Canada's overall GHG emissions.
148
Which political party in Canada changed the stance on the Kyoto Protocol in 2006?
The Conservative government.
149
What did the Conservative government announce regarding the Kyoto Protocol?
Canada would not meet its targets under the Kyoto Protocol.
150
What reasons did the Conservative government give for not meeting Kyoto targets?
The targets would damage Canada's economy and GHG emissions were rising.
151
What significant event occurred in December 2007 in Bali, Indonesia?
An international meeting launched new negotiations on an agreement to fight climate change after 2012.
152
What was the main concern of environmental organizations regarding Canada and the U.S. positions on the Kyoto Protocol?
The positions may hinder effective action against climate change.
153
Fill in the blank: The Kyoto Protocol was negotiated to address _______.
climate change.
154
Who is Rob Grant?
A Grade 12 student at Camrose Composite High School
155
What group did Rob Grant help start?
Students for Environmental and Social Advocacy
156
What is one of the most important things for the future according to Rob Grant?
Renewable energy
157
What does the group aim to demonstrate about renewable energy?
That it is viable and has a place in our society
158
What broad issue does the group want to take action on?
Climate change
159
What do the members of the group want people to recognize about their energy choices?
That their choice is a choice every time they use their microwave or turn on the TV
160
What environmental concern is specifically mentioned by the group?
The oil sands
161
How does the group believe Alberta's economy can benefit?
By taking a greener path
162
What do members believe about the relationship between renewable energy and the economy?
That we don't have to compromise our economy and standard of living to use renewable energy
163
What role does Rob Grant think the government should play in environmental issues?
To take the lead and act in the interests of the people
164
What project did Rob Grant undertake at his school?
Installation of solar panels
165
Who helped Rob Grant with the solar panel project?
Elizabeth Solverson
166
What was the purpose of the solar panel project?
To make people aware of renewable energy and get them involved
167
How many people are currently part of the Students for Environmental and Social Advocacy group?
Twenty-five
168
What percentage of the school's energy needs do the solar panels supply?
About 3 percent
169
When were the solar panels installed?
December 2007
170
What was the cost of the solar panel installation?
$25,000
171
What is the group's goal regarding education and environmental stewardship?
To educate people and demonstrate environmental stewardship
172
Fill in the blank: The group wanted to get renewable energy out of textbooks and into _______.
real life
173
What type of events did the group organize to raise awareness about renewable energy?
Concerts, information booths, weekly updates, and announcements
## Footnote
These events aimed to inform and engage the community about their renewable energy project.
174
What was the primary purpose of the concerts organized by the group?
To raise money and awareness for the project
## Footnote
All money and donations from these concerts went directly to the renewable energy initiative.
175
How did the group communicate updates about their project?
Through the school newsletter and morning announcements
## Footnote
Weekly updates included an 'environment fact of the week' during announcements.
176
What additional activities did the group engage in during parent-teacher interviews?
Set up information booths and distributed pamphlets
## Footnote
They also talked to attendees about their project and collected donations.
177
How much money did the group raise through their events?
About a thousand dollars
## Footnote
The group also raised additional funds from local businesses through various outreach efforts.
178
What advice did Rob, a member of the group, give regarding public speaking?
Be prepared to talk even if it makes you nervous
## Footnote
He emphasized that the importance of the issue outweighs personal discomfort.
179
True or False: The primary goal of the Students for Environmental and Social Advocacy was to install solar panels.
False
## Footnote
Their main goal was to raise awareness and funds for renewable energy projects.
180
Fill in the blank: The group raised the rest of the funds from _______.
local businesses
## Footnote
This was accomplished through phone calls, meetings, and emails.
181
What did the group feature in their weekly announcements?
'environment fact of the week'
## Footnote
This aimed to educate students and staff about environmental issues.
182
What is the significance of the solar panels in relation to the students' advocacy?
They represent the tangible results of their efforts
## Footnote
The students helped install the solar panels, demonstrating their commitment to renewable energy.
183
What is a critical thinking challenge mentioned in the text?
How do the Students for Environmental and Social Advocacy fit into the breakdown of views on environmental issues?
## Footnote
This question encourages deeper analysis of different perspectives on environmental advocacy.
184
What do economic and political decisions about the oil sands impact?
Climate change and quality of life
## Footnote
Economic and political decisions affect both the oil sands development and climate change.
185
What types of views and perspectives are involved in decisions about the oil sands?
Producers, consumers, and governments
## Footnote
These views also include the rights of Aboriginal peoples and individuals.
186
How do decisions about the oil sands affect quality of life?
Through jobs, impacts of climate change, and other factors
## Footnote
Quality of life is influenced by various economic and environmental considerations.
187
What did the federal government issue on May 8, 2007, regarding Alberta's oil sands?
Clean-air regulations that exempt Alberta's oil sands from new pollution limits
## Footnote
This regulation allows oil sands plants to not cut back on smog-forming emissions.
188
For how long are oil sands plants exempted from cutting greenhouse-gas emissions under the new regulations?
Three years
## Footnote
This exemption is intended to promote rapid expansion of oil sands development.
189
What is the Scotford Upgrader, and where is it located?
It is an upgrader in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, that turns bitumen into synthetic crude oil
## Footnote
The upgrader employs 200 people and is part of a major GHG emitting industry.
190
How could consumer decisions to use more or less energy affect the Scotford Upgrader?
It could affect jobs at the upgrader and climate change
## Footnote
Changes in consumer energy use can impact demand for synthetic crude oil.
191
Whose quality of life would decisions affecting the Scotford Upgrader involve?
Workers at the upgrader and the surrounding community
## Footnote
Quality of life is interconnected with employment and environmental factors.
192
Why might Canadians have different views about the federal law regarding oil sands?
Due to differing perspectives on environmental impacts, economic benefits, and governance
## Footnote
Governance in Canada provides opportunities for Canadians to voice their views.
193
Fill in the blank: The Scotford Upgrader turns _______ into synthetic crude oil.
bitumen
## Footnote
Bitumen is a sticky substance extracted from the oil sands.
194
True or False: The federal clean-air regulations require oil sands plants to immediately cut back on emissions.
False
## Footnote
Oil sands plants are exempt from new pollution limits for three years.
195
What two levels of government are involved in the development of the oil sands in Canada?
Provincial and federal governments
## Footnote
Provincial governments control natural resources according to Canada's constitution.
196
Who sets the pace and extent of oil sands development in Alberta?
Alberta's government
## Footnote
This reflects the value that people in different regions should have a voice in laws and policies affecting their quality of life.
197
What do both the provincial and federal governments set limits on?
Pollution, including greenhouse gases
## Footnote
This reflects the idea that the federal government should maintain the 'peace, order and good government' of Canada.
198
What values shape Premier Stelmach's position on the government's role in oil sands development?
Community voice and environmental responsibility
## Footnote
The values reflect the importance of regional input in resource management.
199
Where would Premier Stelmach's position likely fall on the economic continuum?
Mixed Economy
## Footnote
This suggests a balance between government involvement and market forces.
200
Fill in the blank: The economic continuum ranges from _______ to Market Economy.
Mixed Economy
201
True or False: Provincial governments in Canada have no control over natural resources.
False
## Footnote
Provincial governments control natural resources according to the constitution.
202
What is a key idea at the center of Canada's governance regarding resource development?
Regional voice in laws and policies
## Footnote
This is reflected in how provincial governments manage natural resources.
203
How does consumer behavior impact government decisions on oil sands development?
Consumers create demand for products like oil and gas, influencing political and economic decisions regarding oil sands development.
## Footnote
This relationship highlights the interconnectedness of market demand and governmental policy.
204
What role should government and consumerism play in Canada's economy?
Government and consumerism should both play significant roles in shaping economic decisions and policies in Canada.
## Footnote
This includes considerations of environmental impact and sustainable practices.
205
What does the size of the cars in the cartoon convey?
The sizes of the cars convey a message related to consumer choices and their implications, particularly in the context of economic challenges faced by American car manufacturers.
## Footnote
Larger cars may symbolize consumer preference for less fuel-efficient vehicles.
206
To what extent has the driver of the car made an informed decision about what to drive?
The extent of the driver's informed decision can be questioned, reflecting on consumer awareness of environmental impacts and economic factors.
## Footnote
This invites discussion on the responsibility of consumers in making sustainable choices.
207
Which cartoon supports the idea that government needs to play a role in the economy to reduce GHG emissions?
The cartoon that highlights government intervention and its necessity in addressing GHG emissions supports this idea.
## Footnote
It likely illustrates the need for regulation and policy changes to promote environmental sustainability.
208
How does consumer behavior impact government decisions on oil sands development?
Consumers create demand for products like oil and gas, influencing political and economic decisions regarding oil sands development.
## Footnote
This relationship highlights the interconnectedness of market demand and governmental policy.
209
What role should government and consumerism play in Canada's economy?
Government and consumerism should both play significant roles in shaping economic decisions and policies in Canada.
## Footnote
This includes considerations of environmental impact and sustainable practices.
210
What does the size of the cars in the cartoon convey?
The sizes of the cars convey a message related to consumer choices and their implications, particularly in the context of economic challenges faced by American car manufacturers.
## Footnote
Larger cars may symbolize consumer preference for less fuel-efficient vehicles.
211
To what extent has the driver of the car made an informed decision about what to drive?
The extent of the driver's informed decision can be questioned, reflecting on consumer awareness of environmental impacts and economic factors.
## Footnote
This invites discussion on the responsibility of consumers in making sustainable choices.
212
Which cartoon supports the idea that government needs to play a role in the economy to reduce GHG emissions?
The cartoon that highlights government intervention and its necessity in addressing GHG emissions supports this idea.
## Footnote
It likely illustrates the need for regulation and policy changes to promote environmental sustainability.
213
What does biodiversity refer to?
The variety and number of living things on Earth, and the ecosystems living things both shape and depend on.
214
What are ecological services provided by ecosystems?
* Clean water
* Clean air
* Climate control
215
How do ecosystems connect to the quality of life?
They provide essential ecological services that affect everyone.
216
What cultural significance do ecosystems hold?
They can have cultural and spiritual importance to people.
217
For whom can ecosystems be an important source of wild food?
Some Canadians, especially for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit.
218
What is the Rumsey Natural Area known for?
It is the largest undisturbed tract of aspen parkland remaining in Canada.
219
What important habitat does the Rumsey Natural Area provide?
Some of North America's most important waterfowl habitat.
220
What challenge do energy companies present regarding the Rumsey Natural Area?
They have challenged the protected status of the area, seeking rights to drill for natural gas.
221
True or False: Biodiversity only refers to the number of species in an ecosystem.
False
222
Fill in the blank: Ecosystems provide us with many __________ services.
ecological
223
What is one question to consider regarding protected areas?
Should development be allowed in protected areas?
224
What steps should individuals take to address biodiversity issues?
Involve others, develop informed responses, and take action.
225
What does the section encourage readers to seek?
Ways that decisions about biodiversity affect the environment, economy, and quality of life.
226
What is a potential action to take regarding the Rumsey Natural Area?
Find out the current status of the Rumsey Natural Area and other protected areas in Alberta.
227
How do environmental issues involve political and economic decision making?
Environmental issues require balancing economic growth with sustainability and public policy.
## Footnote
This involves assessing the impact of decisions on the environment and society.
228
What political and economic decisions should Canadians make to respond to climate change?
Canadians should consider policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy sources.
## Footnote
This includes supporting carbon pricing and sustainable practices.
229
What political and economic decisions should Canadians make to protect biodiversity?
Canadians should implement regulations that protect natural habitats and promote conservation efforts.
## Footnote
This can involve creating protected areas and supporting wildlife preservation initiatives.
230
How should governments in Canada respond to political and economic issues?
Governments should develop comprehensive strategies that address both environmental and economic challenges.
## Footnote
This involves stakeholder engagement and evidence-based policy-making.
231
What is one way to illustrate different views on environmental issues?
Create a presentation that includes various formats like skits, visual aids, or sound effects.
## Footnote
This engages the audience and communicates diverse perspectives effectively.
232
What technology can be used to gather perspectives on environmental issues?
Digital cameras or video cameras can be used to interview individuals for their views.
## Footnote
This helps capture a range of opinions on how environmental issues affect citizenship and quality of life.
233
What action can students take to raise awareness about environmental issues?
Invite a provincial or federal minister of the environment to speak at the school.
## Footnote
This can help inform the community about current issues and government responses.
234
Complete the thought: In this chapter, I learned... about taking action on issues.
In this chapter, I learned the importance of proactive measures in addressing environmental challenges.
## Footnote
Taking action is essential for creating sustainable solutions.
235
Complete the thought: Thinking about environmental issues that affect me and others matters because...
Thinking about environmental issues that affect me and others matters because it influences our quality of life and future sustainability.
## Footnote
Awareness leads to better decision-making and community engagement.
236
Complete the thought: The most important thing I learned about governments responding to environmental issues is...
The most important thing I learned about governments responding to environmental issues is the need for coordinated efforts and public involvement.
## Footnote
Effective responses require collaboration between government, citizens, and organizations.
