The student will investigate and understand public policy decisions relating to the environment. Key concepts include
1. management of renewable resources
2. management of nonrenewable resources
3. the mitigation of land-use and environmental hazards through preventive measures
4. cost/benefit tradeoffs in conservation policies

Management of Resources

• People, as well as other living organisms, are dependent upon the availability of clean water and air and a healthy environment.
• Local, state, and federalgovernments have significant roles in managing and protecting air, water, plant, and wildlife resources.
• Modern industrial society is dependent upon energy.

• Fossil fuels are the major sources of energy in developed and industrialized nations and should be managed to minimize adverse impacts.
  • Many renewable and nonrenewable resources are managed by the private sector (private individuals and corporations).
  • Renewable resources should be managed so that they produce continuously.
• Sustainable development makes decisions about long-term use of the land and natural resources for maximum community benefit for the longest time and with the least environmental damage.
  • Regulations, incentives, and voluntary efforts help conserve resources and protect environmental quality.
  • Conservation of resources and environmental protection begin with individual acts of stewardship.


Cost - Benefit Tradeoffs

• Use of renewable (water, air, soil, plant life, animal life) and nonrenewable resources (coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear power, and mineral resources) must be considered in terms of their cost/benefit tradeoffs.

Preventative Measures

• Preventive measures, such as pollution prevention or thoughtfully planned and enforced land-use restrictions, can reduce the impact of potential problems in the future.
• Pollution prevention and waste management are less costly than cleanup.