Advantages and Disadvantages to Society Essay

Humans have become so dependent on electricity and society’s evolution to a great extent has been based on it. In the absence of lights, computers, most methods of transportation and communication, the last hundred years of advancement could be set back. With these things considered, electricity could clearly be regarded as man’s greatest discovery. However, in as much as electricity has played a major role in the progress of humankind, it has also contributed widely into the sluggish destruction of society. Therefore, electricity has both an advantageous and disadvantageous effects on society. Electricity is an invisible form of energy created by the movement of charged particles, a phenomenon that is a result of the existence of electrical charge. It flows into our homes along wires and can be easily converted into other energy forms, such as heat and light. It can be stored in batteries or sent along wires to make electric trains, computers, light bulbs and other devices work. The comprehension of electricity has directed to the invention of generators, computers and nuclear-energy systems, X-ray devices, motors, telephones, radio and television. (Grolier Encyclopedia of Knowledge, 2002) Everything in the world, including humans and the air they breathe, is made of atoms. Each of these tiny particles has a positively charged center, named as nucleus, with smaller, negatively charged electrons whizzing around it. Electricity is created when one of the electrons jump to another atom. This can be caused by the magnetic field in a generator, by chemicals in a battery, or by friction (rubbing materials together). Early History The breakthrough discovery that an electric charge could be created by rubbing two materials together was first made by the Greek Philosopher Thales around 600 BC. He found that if he rubbed the fossilized tree sap, amber, with silk, it attracted small light objects such as feathers and dust. However, the first realistic device for the generation of electrical energy was not invented until 1800 when the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta constructed the first crude battery. For centuries, this strange, puzzling property was thought to be limited to amber. Two thousand years later, in the 16th century, William Gilbert provided evidence that many other substances are electric. He gave these substances the Latin name electrica, originating from the Greek word elektron (which means â€Å"amber†). According to the 2008 Encyclopedia Americana, the word magnet, comes from the Greek name for the black stones from Magnesia in Asia Minor. Sir Thomas Browne, an English writer and physician, first used the word electricity in 1646. Relationships between electricity and magnetism were devised in 1820 by the Danish physicist H. C. Oersted and the French physicist D. F. J. Arago from studies of the effects of a current-carrying conductor on a compass needle or iron filings. That same year, the French physicist Andre Ampere showed that an electric current flowing through a wire created a magnetic field similar to that of a permanent magnet. In 1831, the English physicist Michael Faraday conceived a device for converting mechanical energy to electrical energy. Faraday’s machine, the first dynamo (DC generator), was made up of a copper disk rotating between the poles of a permanent magnet. A year later, Hippolyte Pixii of France, built both an AC generator and a DC generator, the latter being fitted with a commutator. Such primeval generators were widely used for experimental purposes. Nonetheless, they could not generate a great deal of power because the field strength of their permanent magnets was slight. In 1866, the German inventor Werner von Siemens initiated the use of electromagnets instead of permanent magnets for the field poles of a DC generator. In 1870, the Belgian inventor Zenobe Gramme further improved the performance of DC generators by using armatures of iron wound with rings of insulated copper wire. Powered by counteracting steam engines, Gramme’s generators were used to supply current for arc lamps in lighthouses and factories. Electric arc street lamps were installed in Paris in 1879, in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1879, and in New York City in 1880. However, the carbon filament incandescent lamp invented by Thomas Edison and Joseph Swan in 1880 provided a far better and more suitable source of light than arc lamps did. This invention created a great demand for electric power as it marked the beginning of the electric power industry. Electricity was a mystifying force. It did not seem to occur naturally at initial appearance, except in the frightening form of lightning. Researchers had to do an atypical thing to study electricity; they had to manufacture the phenomenon before they could analyze it. We have come to realize that electricity is everywhere and that all matter is electrical in nature. Many innovators in the study of magnetism and electricity become known between the late 1700s and the early 1800s, many of whom left their names on several electrical units. These scientists include Charles Augustin de Coulomb (the unit of charge), Andre Ampere (current), George Ohm (resistance), James Watt (electrical power), and James Joule (energy). Luigi Galvani gave us the galvanometer, a device for measuring currents, while Alessandro Volta gave us the volt, a unit of potential, or electromotive force. Similarly C. F. Gauss, Hans Christian Oersted, and W. E. Weber all made their mark and established their names on electrical engineering. Only Benjamin Franklin failed to leave his name on any electrical unit, despite his noteworthy contributions. All of the afore-mentioned scientists contributed to the study of electricity. However, the two real giants in the field were 19th century Englishmen, Michael Faraday and James Clerk Maxwell. The widespread use of electricity as a source of power is largely due to the work of pioneering American engineers and inventors such as Nikola Tesla, and Charles Proteus Steinmetz during the late 19th and early 20th centuries (Microsoft Encarta Reference Library 2002). One of the most well-known perhaps is Thomas Alva Edison, most famous for his development of the first commercially practical incandescent lamp. He was one of the most prolific inventors of the late 19th century and his greatest contribution is the development of the world’s first central-electric-light-power-station. By the time he died in West Orange, New Jersey, he had patented over 1000 inventions. (Jenkins, R. 2000) II. BODY Electrical activity takes place constantly everywhere in the universe. Electrical forces hold molecules together. The nervous systems of animals work by way of weak electric signals transmitted between nerve cells called neurons. Electricity is generated, transmitted, and converted into other forms of energy such as heat, light and motion through natural processes, as well as by devices built by people. Over the period from 1950 to 1999, the most recent year for which data are available, annual world electric power production and consumption rose from slightly less than 1,000 billion kilowatt hours to 14,028 billion kwh. A change also took place in the type of power generation. In 1950, about 2/3 of the electricity came from thermal or steam-generating sources and about 1/3 from hydroelectric sources. In 1998, thermal sources produced sixty-three percent of the power, but hydropower had declined to nineteen percent, and nuclear power accounted for seventeen percent of the total. The growth in nuclear power slowed in some countries, markedly the United States, in reaction to concerns about safety. Nuclear plants generated twenty percent of U. S. electricity in 1999; in France, the world leader, the figure was 76 percent.

Albert Maslow Essay

Albert Maslow always wondered what motivated people, he wanted to how or what motivated a person. He believe people were not just motivated by reward, but believed it was a motivation system. Maslow has mentioned that people were motivated to reach a need, when they reached that need they would start on reaching the next and then the next. Albert Maslow was a humanistic psychologist in 1943 wrote his paper titled â€Å"A THEORY OF HUMAN MOTIVATION† (Maslow A. H., 2010). His theory of human behavior is a hierarchy of needs. Maslow theory of people motivation, he believed there were five stages of motivational needs and each needed to be completed to get to the next stage of need. The pyramid was not originally used by Maslow to describe his theory of the five stages, but they are used in text books to give a visual description of the levels the hierarchy of needs. Maslow challenged our basic physiological needs to survive is water, food, sleep and air this is what he believed were the most important in his five stages hierarchy of needs and the other stages would fail and not proceed without the basic needs of water, food, sleep and air. Physiological stage would be at the bottom of his theory the bottom of the pyramid. Once Maslow physiological needs were satisfied, you can proceed to the next stage of need. Maslow believed security, financial, shelter, and your well-being were necessary to proceed to the next stage. Safety is the next stage in Maslow hierarchy on the pyramid above physiological need. Safety needs are physical safety after a natural disaster, child abuse. Even experience people may have like a stress disorder. Financial crisis due to lack of work or job security. Maslow believed this was a level more for children as they need the greater need of feeling safe. The next stage is social, this stage is belonging and being loved. Maslow believes this need is less basic then he stated for physiological. Social need of feeling love is related to relationship could be a romantic with a partner, a friendship, and most of all families love. Also involves religious and community group, social need is above safety on the pyramid. Esteem is the fourth stage of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, you can reach this stage once the first stages have been satisfied. Maslow believed people want to be recognize and feel needed. Self-Esteem reflects achievement, confidence and accomplished. Esteem is the fourth stage above social on the pyramid. We have reached the fifth stage of the hierarchy of needs, the top of the pyramid is self-actualization.  Maslow considered the first four staged the deficiency needs, because are from deprivation. The fifth stage was consider by Maslow as the being needs. He describes it as being motivated and the need of growing as a person. Maslow believed that once a person achieved the previo us four stages of hierarchy needs, that people had strong motivations to accomplish personal growth. He also believed once a person achieved self-actualization they has less concerns of others opinions. Maslow’s theory did make sense to me, but there was no real research performed to support this theory. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs was found to be true by researchers at the University of Illinois. The researchers conduct a study in 2011. They discover that it was true with the basic need people were happy. They also concluded that people felt positive about their lives with just the basic of food, water, money and shelter were not met. After these findings and other studies that have been conducted, Maslow’s theory was except in the world of psychology. Maslow’s theory related to motivation, people always have needs and wants. When people need this makes a great motivator. In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs that I find the most challenging would be safety and security. In today’s time people have issue finding the safety and security to satisfy the needs. Even though people may have difficulties with safety and securities they are still motivated for self-actualization. At once other (and â€Å"higher†) needs emerge and these, rather than physiological hungers, dominate the organism. And when these in turn are satisfied, again new (and still â€Å"higher†) needs emerge and so on. This is what we mean by saying that the basic human needs are organized into a hierarchy of relative prepotency. (Maslow A. H., 2010 p375) References Maslow, A. H. (2010, December 23). A Theory of Human Motivation – Abraham H Maslow – Psychological Review Vol 50 No 4July 1943.pdf. Retrieved June 8, 2014, from Google Docs: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B-5-JeCa2Z7hNjZlNDNhOTEtMWNkYi00YmFhLWI3YjUtMDEyMDJkZDExNWRm/edit?pli=1 Maslow, A. H. (2010, December 23). A Theory of Human Motivation – Abraham H Maslow – Psychological Review Vol 50 No 4 July 1943.pdf. Retrieved June 8, 2014, from https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B-5-JeCa2Z7hNjZlNDNhOTEtMWNkYi00YmFhLWI3YjUtM

Australian Economy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Australian Economy - Essay Example The prediction was that the central bank of Australia would be forced to bring into play an expansionary monetary policy that would have rates of interest lowered to 2.5% from 4.25% so as to trigger growth. (Foley, 2009) Just before looking at this policy, it is of essence to explain vividly what a monetary policy entails. The situation in the world since year 2008 has been very serious and many economies including North America and Europe experienced a major economic downturn. Generally, the whole world was experiencing one of the most serious economic recessions. Australia as an economy has been said by most economic analysts to have defied this downturn. However, it has been affected as well by this situation, to mention the least. Governments, through their central banks, use both monetary policies and fiscal policies to control the stability and growth of the aggregate economy. This study is about both of these economic policies and more particularly in the context of the Austra lian economy. The study will first tackle each of these policies in general to create an understanding of the same before narrowing down to the Australian situation. Monetary policy will be the first to handle before going on to the fiscal policy. Monetary policies are usually about two major categories. These are expansionary and contractionary monetary policies. An expansionary policy is generally an open-market buying while a contractinary policy is about an open-market sale. An expansionary policy involves lowering of rates of interest while a contractionary policy escalates interest rates. Increased interest rates (contractionary policy) mean that borrowing from banks will be more expensive and thus, there will be minimal borrowing, which reduces currency supply in a given economy. A reduction in interest rates (expansionary policy) means that borrowing from banks will be easier due to the low rates of interest. Thus, this increases currency supply in the economy. Graphs can be utilised to illustrate what has been explained earlier concerning monetary policies. This is as shown below; Figure 1: Monetary policies illustrated in graphs Interest rates S0 S1 Interest rates S1 S0 D D Bank Reserves Bank Reserves Expansionary policy Contractionary policy As shown by the arrows, an expansionary policy involves a lowering of the rates of interest and thus, a rise in the supply of currency while a contractionary policy does exactly the opposite. S0 shows the original currency supply while S1 is the new supply. D is the demand curve for currency. (Baumol and Blinder, 2010 pp270, 271) Despite the criticism by the International Monetary Fund, that Australia was using a bad approach (in year 2010) to the inflation levels by using a monetary policy that was based in inflation targeting, the Reserve Bank of Australia continued using this approach. At this point in time, the bank was applying a contarctionary policy. The Reserve Bank usually targets a range of inflation o f around 2-3% while making these decisions of the monetary policy. It was to utilize the rates of interest so as to slower the overheating of the Australian economy. In 2010, the inflation target ranged between 1-2%. In order to control the condition of the recession effects, the Reserve Bank was applying a

Philippines history Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Philippines history - Essay Example Rizal was gifted in numerous field and participated in hundreds of learning activities both in Spain and Europe. The case Jose Rizal is a unique one since he never forget his native culture and the livelihood of his mother country, despite learning from different cultures. Having studied over twenty languages, Rizal still cherished his mother language and knew that it was important to safeguard indigenous culture and develop it. A critical analysis of the Noli Me Tangere provides several elements of indigenous culture that are evident in both religion and the society. From the Noli Me Tangere, we can identify that practices such as hospitality and courtesy are well pictured. Rizal (6) notes that Captain Tiago organized a dinner party, which was attended by many people. Hospitality is among the pillars of indigenous culture in Philippines, which lies on the principle that, people should live as members of this same family. The Philippines native culture recognizes members of the society as one social unit that should share the available resources. The old man who was welcoming guest during the party organized by Captain Tiago, showed respect and humbleness to the quest. He was courteous when welcoming the ladies invited to the party, and executed the assigned duties without despair or discrimination. The culture provides that people should join hands when attending to societal problems such as hunger, disease and education. In essence, people should enjoy good times together, and when it comes to tough times, they should mourn together. The Catholic Church recognizes the practice of maintaining upright morals and way of doing things, just like the indigenous Philippines culture. This can be proven by how the sitting arrangement was organized at the house of Captain Tiago during the dinner party. Men had to sit on a separate side from that of the women to avoid a chance that might

Respone essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Response to Afrita Hanem - Essay Example Asfour loves Aleya and he desires to marry her. They experience obstacles in their love life. This is because the father of Aleya is against the marriage arrangement, because of differences in social status. The female genie also falls in love with Asfour and hence tries to manipulate his feelings. The film is superstitious because it involves a supernatural being. The female genie loves and relates with Asfour, through supernatural abilities. The film illustrates several European influences in the Arab or Islamic world. The first influence illustrated the accumulation of wealth, or the desire to accumulate more wealth. The father of Aleya disapproves the marriage relationship because Asfour does not have wealth. He wishes that his daughter should be married by a wealthier man or a person in the same social and economic class. The female genies, also provide Asfour with whatever he desires. Arab tradition and culture are adequately illustrated in the film. The Arab culture illustrates that the consent of the parents is required for a marriage process to take place. The love relationship between Asfour and Aleya, experiences challenges due to the disapproval by the father. The Arab culture illustrates the existence of genies, especially in bottles. The genies are believed to possess powers that grant people their desires; for instance, the desire for love, or wealth. Arab society is adequately explained in the film. The society is divided into social classes involving depending on wealth status. The rich are not supposed to relate freely with the poor; especially on serious issues like marriage. The men and women in Arab society have different roles. The father is supposed to consent to the marriage of his daughter, and the man is supposed to search for a suitable girl and propose marriage. Symbols are applied in the film. The genie being locked in the lamp for one thousand years illustrates the limited freedom that women have in the Arab world due to tradition; for instance, the limited decision to choose their life or marital life.

Justice as a larger loyalty and theory of recognition Essay

Justice as a larger loyalty and theory of recognition - Essay Example Richard Rorty is an American philosopher having graduated from the University of Chicago. He is a man well known in contemporary analytic of philosophy work as well as history of philosophy. In his research and writings towards justice and democracy, Rorty suggested that democracy can only be recognized world wide as moral legitimacy forms of government. From the mere observations, Rorty suggested that democracy establishment and preservation varies from one culture to another hence; democracy is affected by three major problems in general. Justice and democracy depends on the perspective ways of presentation, theoretical point of view and practical form. However, the author in his writings demonstrated distortion of democratic decision making which is brought by disparities in wealth, capitalist economies and reconciliation of democratic values are some of the major problems that democracy and justice meets. In his regards towards justice as a larger loyalty, Rorty believed that mos t of what passes for philosophy facet is puzzled, useless, solving, as well as clever towards culture and real life of people within a given community. The author suggested an aspect of pragmatists towards nature and gave an inquiry that one should simply make on what he or she see happening. In his writing however, the philosopher initiated other fellow to try some new ways of thinking and see the result as suggested.

An Organizational Ethical Dilemma Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

An Organizational Ethical Dilemma - Coursework Example A class action lawsuit was brought against Rite Aid by its employees because of the incurred losses in shareholdings and income due to the bookkeeping and accounting fraud ("Rite aid faces," 2003) The company’s reputation was severely hurt by this scandal and lost nearly a billion dollars in legal fees and in the shareholding settlement reached for the class action lawsuit. The company lost its good reputation and fell behind similar stores such as CVS and Walgreens ("Rite aid faces," 2003) The Ethical Issues There are several ethical issues that are illustrated in this particular incidence. The biggest issue is the breach of fairness. According to the book entitled â€Å"Managing Business Ethics,† a major aspect of ethics for most employees in an organization is the â€Å"climate of fairness† (Trevino, & Nelson, 2010). A climate of fairness involves all aspects of employee treatment such as â€Å"outcomes, processes, and interactions (Trevino, & Nelson, 2010). In order to be considered ethical, this climate of fairness cannot be breached. In this case, Rite Aid did not provide a fair work environment as employees were harmed in the all three of these key areas because of the fraudulent actions of several men. Instead, the company promoted a self-interest climate which is where â€Å"people protect their own interests above all and everyone is essentially out for themselves† (Trevino, & Nelson, 2010). Martin Grass and his accomplices placed their own greed above the good of the other employees and shareholders and ended up defrauding many of these people out of the money that they were entitled to ("Rite aid faces," 2003) Who is affected by the dilemma? The employees and shareholders were the individuals that were initially impacted by this ethical scandal due to the fact that they were the ones who lost out on the money they were owed. In order to rectify this situation, a class action lawsuit was filed and eventually the company h ad to pay out. The company was also affected by this dilemma as their reputation was ruined and they lost a lot of money because of the legal fees and profit loss. Finally, the customers are also affected because such a breach of ethics is going to change the perception of the organization. Customers likely felt that this was not a company they should trust. The fact that profit was impacted suggests that customers did not want to be associated with the store and its negative reputation. What are the possible consequences of specific and alternative actions (responses)? The company really did not have any other choice when it came to how they responded to this ethical dilemma. In order to save face in the long-term, they had to pay back the money to shareholders and employees. The only way to ensure that they were not ruined was to accept the short term consequences and respond appropriately. Had the company not responded appropriately, they might have been forced to go out of busin ess. Even with an appropriate reaction, Rite Aid lost billions and their stock plummeted to just a few dollars per stock in 2003("Company news; rite," 2003) What are the relevant obligations from your analysis of the dilemma? According to â€Å"Managing Business Ethics,† the obligations for a company â€Å"vary depending on the people involved and the roles they play (Trevino, & Nelson, 2010). For Rite Aid, the main obligation that they had was

Transnational Immigrants in a Global Society Essay

Transnational Immigrants in a Global Society - Essay Example On one hand he carries the stains of his culture with him and on the other hand when he is prevented from being considered a part of the new society, he automatically finds himself alienated. The sense of missing his own root, his culture, elements of his upbringing, recognition in his own society and the total sense of fulfillment is incited. Pondering over the current structure of the US society this sense of being unfulfilled becomes more explicit. Modern US society can be regarded as a perfect example of the global society where people from different ethnic background, from different nations have gathered with the aspiration to introduce new changes to their lives, to aspire for a better future. Most of the time, such feelings are generated from the perspective of attaining a better fortune rather than love for the nation. However such aspiration for attaining materialist gain could not subdue their spontaneous longing for their upbringing and culture. Such social alienation most of time gives birth to existentialist angst and they, consequently, also develop a feeling of hostility against that particular society. In the course of understanding what kind of problems can occur at the psychical level of an individual who, though is living in the US but transcends often to hi original existence, we have met Rina, a 34 years old lady, who has come down to the US for the purpose of completing her higher studies. While meeting frequently with her I have asked Rina several questions about her feeling over her stay at the US, her feelings about lifestyle in the new society and how she finds it different from her ethnic Indian upbringing. It is a quite common conviction transitional immigration is an entirely political phenomenon but the main impact of transitional immigration over socio cultural aspects of a nation most of the time has been ignored. In this context Reed

Acquisition is a High Risky Strategy Essay Example for Free

Acquisition is a High Risky Strategy Essay In the literature, several motives for takeovers have been identified. One is the desire for synergy. That is, similarities or complementarities between the acquiring and target firms are expected to result in the combined value of the enterprises exceeding their worth as separate firms (Collis and Montgomery, 1998). A second motive involves the expectation that acquirers can extract value because target companies have been managed inefficiently (Varaiya, 1987). A third motive is attributed to managerial hubris the notion that senior executives, in overestimating their own abilities, acquire companies they believe could be managed more profitably under their control. Agency theory motive is the anticipation that firm expansion will positively impact the compensation of top managers since there tends to be a direct relation between firm size and executive pay. Contemporary specialists contend that managerial ownership incentives may be expected to have divergent impacts on corporate strategy and firm value. This premise has been recognized in previous studies. For instance, Stulz (1988) has examined the ownership of managers of target companies and has proposed that the relationship between that ownership and the value of target firms may initially be positive and then subsequently become negative with rising insider ownership. Moreover, Shivdasani (1993) empirically shows that the relationship of the ownership structure of target companies with the value of hostile bids is not uniformly positive. McConnell and Servaes (1990) have likewise analyzed the relationship of equity ownership among corporate insiders and Tobins q. Their results demonstrate a non-monotonic relation between Tobins q and insider equity stakes. Wright et al. (1996: 451) have shown a non-linear relationship between insider ownership and corporate strategy related to firm risk taking. Ownership Incentives and Changes in Company Risk Motivating Acquisitions An agency-theoretic motive for acquisitions has been used to explain managerial preferences for risk-reducing corporate strategies (Wright et al., 1996). The implication is that both principals and agents prefer acquiring target companies with higher rather than lower returns. In that, shareholders and managers have congruent interests. The interests, however, diverge in terms of risk considerations associated with acquisitions. Because shareholders possess diversified portfolios, they may only be concerned with systematic risk and be indifferent to the total variance of returns associated with a takeover. Senior managers may alternatively prefer risk-reducing corporate strategies, unless they are granted ownership incentives. That is because they can not diversify their human capital invested in the firm. In the literature, it has been argued that agency costs may be reduced as managerial ownership incentives rise. The reason is that, as ownership incentives rise, the financial interests of insiders and shareholders will begin to converge. Analysts conjecture, however, that such incentives may not consistently provide senior executives the motivation to lessen the agency costs associated with an acquisition strategy. Inherent is the presumption that the nature of executive wealth portfolios will differently influence their attitudes toward corporate strategy. The personal wealth portfolios of top managers are comprised of their ownership of shares/options in the firm, the income produced from their employment, and assets unrelated to the firm. Presumably, as senior executives increase their equity stakes in the enterprise, their personal wealth portfolios become correspondingly less diversified. Although stockholders can diversify their wealth portfolios, top executives have less flexibility if they own substantial shares in the firms they manage. Hence, if a significant portion of managers wealth is concentrated in one investment, then they may find it prudent to diversify their firms via risk-reducing acquisitions. In the related literature, however, takeovers and risk taking have been approached differently from the described approach. Amihud and Lev (1999) have contended that insiders employment income is significantly related to the firms performance. Thus, managers are confronted with risks associated with their income if the maintenance of that income is dependent on achieving predetermined performance targets. Reasonably, in the event of either corporate underperformance or firm failure, CEOs not only may lose their current employment income but also may seriously suffer in the managerial labor market, since their future earnings potential with other enterprises may be lowered. Hence, the risk of executives employment income is impacted by the firms risk. The ramification of Amihud and Levs (1999) contentions is that top managers will tend to lower firm risk, and therefore their own employment risk, by acquiring companies that contribute to stabilizing of the firms income, even if shareho lder wealth is adversely affected. Consistent with the implications of Amihud and Levs arguments, Agrawal and Mandelker (1987) have similarly suggested that managers with negligible ownership stakes may adopt risk-reducing corporate strategies because such strategies may well serve their own personal interests. With ownership incentives, however, managers may be more likely to acquire risk-enhancing target companies, in line with the requirement of wealth maximization for shareholders. The notion that at negligible managerial ownership levels, detrimental risk-reducing acquisition strategies may be emphasized, but with increasing ownership incentive levels, beneficial risk-enhancing acquisitions may be more prevalent is also suggested in other works (Grossman and Hoskisson, 1998). The conclusion of these investigations is that the relationship between insider ownership and risk enhancing, worthy corporate acquisitions is linear and positive. Some experts assert that CEOs personal wealth concentration will induce senior managers to undertake risk-reducing firm strategies. Portfolio theorys expectation suggests that investors or owner-managers may desire to diversify their personal wealth portfolios. For instance, Markowitz (1952: 89) has asserted that investors may wish to diversify across industries because firms in different industries. . . have lower covariances than firms within an industry. Moreover, as argued by Sharpe (1964: 441), diversification enables the investor to escape all but the risk resulting from swings in economic activity. Consequently, managers with substantial equity investments in the firm may diversify the firm via risk-reducing acquisitions in order to diversify their own personal wealth portfolios. Because they may be especially concerned with risk-reducing acquisitions, however, their corporate strategies may not enhance firm value through takeovers, although managerial intention may be to boos t corporate value. The above discussion is compatible with complementary arguments that suggest that insiders may acquire non-value-maximizing target companies although their intentions may be to enhance returns to shareholders. For instance, according to the synergy view, while takeovers may be motivated by an ex-ante concern for increasing corporate value, many such acquisitions are not associated with an increase in firm value. Alternatively, according to the hubris hypothesis, even though insiders may intend to acquire targets that they believe could be managed more profitably under their control, such acquisitions are not ordinarily related to higher profitability. If acquisitions which are undertaken primarily with insider expectations that they will financially benefit owners do not realize higher performance, then those acquisitions which are primarily motivated by a risk-reducing desire may likewise not be associated with beneficial outcomes for owners. Additionally, it can be argued that shareholders can more efficiently diversify their own portfolios, making it unnecessary for managers to diversify the firm in order to achieve portfolio diversification for shareholders. Risk Associated with HRM practices in International Acquisitions There are a number of reasons why the HRM policies and practices of multinational corporations (MNCs) and cross-border acquisitions are likely to be different from those found in domestic firms (Dowling, Schuler and Welch, 1993). For one, the difference in geographical spread means that acquisitions must normally engage in a number of HR activities that are not needed in domestic firms such as providing relocation and orientation assistance to expatriates, administering international job rotation programmes, and dealing with international union activity. Second, as Dowling (1988) points out, the personnel policies and practices of MNCs are likely to be more complex and diverse. For instance, complex salary and income taxation issues are likely to arise in acquisitions because their pay policies and practices have to be administered to many different groups of subsidiaries and employees, located in different countries. Managing this diversity may generate a number of co-ordination and communication problems that do not arise in domestic firms. In recognition of these difficulties, most large international companies retain the services of a major accounting firm to ensure there is no tax incentive or disincentive associated with a particular international assignment. Finally, there are more stakeholders that influence the HRM policies and practices of international firms than those of domestic firms. The major stakeholders in private organizations are the shareholders and the employees. But one could also think of unions, consumer organizations and other pressure groups. These pressure groups also exist in domestic firms, but they often put more pressure on foreign than on local companies. This probably means that international companies need to be more risk averse and concerned with the social and political environment than domestic firms. Acquisitions and HRM Practices: Evidence from Japan, the US, and Europe In contemporary context, international human resource management faces important challenges, and this trend characterizes many Japanese, US and European acquisitions.   From the critical point of view, Japanese companies experience more problems associated with international human resource management than companies from the US and Europe (Shibuya, 2000). Lack of home-country personnel sufficient international manage ­ment skills has been widely recognized in literature as the most difficult problem facing Japanese compa ­nies and simultaneously one of the most significant of US and European acquisitions as well. The statement implies that cultivating such skills is difficult and that they are relatively rare among businessmen in any country. Japanese companies may be particularly prone to this problem due to their heavy use of home-country nationals in overseas management positions. European and Japanese acquisitions also experience the lack of home country personnel who want to work abroad, while it is less of an impediment for the US companies. In the US acquisitions expatriates often experience reentry difficulties (e.g., career disruption) when re ­turning to the home country: This problem was the one most often cited by US firms.   Today Japanese corporations report the relatively lower incidence of expatriate reentry diffi ­culties, and it is surprising given the vivid accounts of such problems at Japanese firms by White (1988) and Umezawa (1990). However, the more active role of the Japanese person ­nel department in coordinating career paths, the tradition of semi ­annual musical-chair-like personnel shuffles (jinji idoh), and the continu ­ing efforts of Japanese stationed overseas to maintain close contact with headquarters might underlie the lower level of difficulties in this area for Japanese firms (Inohara, 2001). In contrast, the decentralized structures of many US and European firms may serve to isolate expatriates from their home-country headquarters, making reentry more problematic. Also, recent downsiz ­ing at US and European firms may reduce the number of appropriate management positions for expatriates to return to, or may sever expatri ­ates relationships with colleagues and mentors at headquarters. Furthermore, within the context of the lifetime employment system, individ ­ual Japanese employees have little to gain by voicing reentry concerns to personnel managers. In turn, personnel managers need not pay a great deal of attention to reentry problems because they will usually not result in a resignation. In western firms, reentry problems need to be taken more seriously by personnel managers because they frequently result in the loss of a valued employee. A further possible explanation for the higher incidence of expatriate reentry problems in western multinationals is the greater tendency of those companies to implement a policy of transferring local nationals to headquarters or other international operations. Under such a policy, the definition of expatriate expands beyond home-country nationals to en ­compass local nationals who transfer outside their home countries. It may even be that local nationals who return to a local operation after working at headquarters or other international operations may have their own special varieties of reentry problems. Literature on international human resource practices in Japan, the US and Europe suggest that the major strategic difficulty for the MNCs is to attract high-caliber local nationals to work for the company. In general, acquisitions may face greater challenges in hiring high-caliber local employees than do domestic firms due to lack of name recognition and fewer relationships with educators or others who might recommend candidates. However, researchers suggest that this issue is significantly more difficult for Japanese than for US and European multinationals. When asked to describe problems encoun ­tered in establishing their US affiliates, 39.5% of the respondents to a Japan Society survey cited finding qualified American managers to work in the affiliate and 30.8% cited hiring a qualified workforce (Bob ; SRI, 2001). Similarly, a survey of Japanese companies operating in the US conducted by a human resource consulting firm found that 35% felt recruiting personnel to be very difficult or extremely difficult, and 56% felt it to be difficult (The Wyatt Company, 1999). In addition to mentioned problem, Japanese acquisition encounter high local employee turnover, which is significantly more prob ­lematic for them due to the near-total absence of turnover to which they are accustomed in Japan. The US, European and Japanese companies admit very rarely that they encounter local legal challenges to their personnel policies. However, in regard to Japanese acquisitions large   amount of press coverage has been given to lawsuits against Japanese companies in the United States and a Japanese Ministry of Labor Survey in which 57% of the 331 respondents indicated that they were facing potential equal employ ­ment opportunity-related lawsuits in the United States (Shibuya, 2000). Conclusion This research investigates whether corporate acquisitions with shared technological resources or participation in similar product markets realize superior economic returns in comparison with unrelated acquisitions. The rationale for superior economic performance in related acquisitions derives from the synergies that are expected through a combination of supplementary or complementary resources. It is clear from the results of this research that acquired firms in related acquisitions have higher returns than acquired firms in unrelated acqui ­sitions. This implies that the related acquired firm benefits more from the acquirer than the unrelated acquired firm. The higher returns for the related acquired firms suggest that the combination with the acquirer’s resources has higher value implications than the combination of two unrelated firms. This is supported by the higher total wealth gains which were observed in related acquisitions. I did however, in the case of acquiring firms, find that the abnormal returns directly attributable to the acquisition transaction are not significant. There are reasons to believe that the announcement effects of the transaction on the returns to acquirers are less easily detected than for target firms. First, an acquisition by a firm affects only part of its businesses, while affecting all the assets (in control-oriented acqui ­sitions) of the target firm. Thus the measurability of effects on acquirers is attenuated. Second, if an acquisition is one event in a series of implicit moves constituting a diversification program, its individual effect as a market signal would be mitigated. It is also likely that the theoretical argument which postulates that related acquisitions create wealth for acquirers may be underspecified. Relatedness is often multifaceted, suggesting that the resources of the target firm may be of value to many firms, thus increasing the relative bargaining power of the target vis-a-vis the potential buyers. Even in the absence of explicit competition for the target (multiple bidding), the premiums paid for control are a substantial fraction of the total gains available from the transaction. For managers, some implications from the research can be offered. First, it seems quite clear from the data that a firm seeking to be acquired will realize higher returns if it is sold to a related than an unrelated firm. This counsel is consistent with the view that the market recognizes synergistic combinations and values them accordingly. Second, managers in acquiring firms may be advised to scrutinize carefully the expected gains in related and unrelated acquisitions. For managers the issue of concern is not whether or not a given kind of acquisition creates a significant total amount of wealth, but what percentage of that wealth they can expect to accrue to their firms. Thus, although acquisitions involving related technologies or product market yield higher total gains, pricing mechanisms in the market for corporate acquisitions reflect the gains primarily on the target company. Interpreting these results conservatively, one may offer the argument that expected gains for acquiring firms are competed away in the bidding process, with stockholders of target firms obtaining high proportions of the gains. On a pragmatic level this research underscores the need to combine what may be called the theoretical with the practical. In the case of acquisitions, pragmatic issues like implicit and explicit competition for a target firm alter the theoretical expectations of gains from an acquisition transaction. Further efforts to clarify these issues theoretically and empirically will increase our understanding of these important phenomena. Bibliography Sharpe WF. 1964. Capital asset prices: a theory of market equilibrium under conditions of risk. Journal of Finance 19: 425-442 Markowitz H. 1952. Portfolio selections. Journal of Finance 7: 77-91 Grossman W, Hoskisson R. 1998. CEO pay at the crossroads of Wall Street and Main: toward the strategic design of executive compensation. Academy of Management Executive 12: 43-57 Amihud Y, Lev B. 1999. Does corporate ownership structure affect its strategy towards diversification? Strategic Management Journal 20(11): 1063-1069 Agrawal A, Mandelker G. 1987. Managerial incentives and corporate investment and financing decisions. Journal of Finance 42: 823-837 Wright P, Ferris S, Sarin A, Awasthi V. 1996. The impact of corporate insider, blockholder, and institutional equity ownership on firm risk-taking. Academy of Management Journal 39: 441-463 McConnell JJ, Servaes H. 1990. Additional evidence on equity ownership and corporate value. Journal of Financial Economics 27: 595-612. Shivdasani A. 1993. Board composition, ownership structure, and hostile takeovers. Journal of Accounting and Economics 16: 167-198 Stulz RM. 1988. Managerial control of voting rights: financing policies and the market for corporate control. Journal of Financial Economics 20: 25-54 Varaiya N. 1987. Determinants of premiums in acquisition transactions. Managerial and Decision Economics 14: 175-184 Collis D, Montgomery C. 1998. Creating corporate advantage. Harvard Business Review 76(3): 71-83 White, M. 1988. The Japanese overseas: Can they go home again? New York: The Free Press. Bob, D., ; SRI International. 2001. Japanese companies in American communities. New York: The Japan Society.

Instructional design Essay Example for Free

Instructional design Essay Instructional design is an important tool in any system of education. It enables all the stakeholders of the educational sector to achieve their objectives. This paper critically analyzes the various approaches to institutional design, their benefits and weaknesses, and further examines the principles relevant to instructional designs. Introduction There has been a massive increase in institutions that offer e-learning and this can be attributed to the changes from the traditional methods of teaching, to the future trends in the same. E-learning enables learners to get access to various curricular from the comfort of their computers. It also enables students to earn degrees from prestigious universities, without being physically present there. However, the success of e-learning can be largely attributed to instructional design programmes that guide teaching methods, and ensure that all stakeholders in the education industry achieve their objectives. Instructional design involves transforming the learning principles into learning activities. It goes further and develops, utilizes, manages and evaluates resources and processes for learning. Instructional design also involves creating the right environment, that will transform learners from states of inability to accomplish tasks, to states of the ability to accomplish tasks. There are three main approaches that are used in achieving these objectives. The first approach is the behavioral approach, the second is the cognitivism approach, while the third is the constructivism approach. These approaches have benefits and limitations, and are discussed below. Behaviorism approach. The founder of this approach to instructional design, is John Watson. He wrote a paper in 1913, in which he argued that when studying social science, we should study and record overt behavior only. This is the behavior that can be observed and measured, and he further added that we should ignore inner states such as mental states or motives. The reason for ignoring the inner state, according to him, was that it cannot be objectively measured. This implies that the inner state cannot be simultaneously observed by many observers. Watson called the inner processes, the black box, and his view was that they were not accessible, scientifically. In behaviorism, our focus is overt behavior and its stimuli, thereby making it the stimulus-response-psychology. Watson further says that all behavior can be attributed to external stimuli, which is observable. How the stimuli is processed inside the body is regarded as irrelevant, since it cannot be objectively measured. Since the behaviorists view behavior as a response to environmental stimulus, change of behavior can be realized by creating the favorable environment. Watsons approach to behaviorism was influenced by Ivan Pavlovs earlier perspectives on operant conditioning and classical conditioning. Pavlov, had discovered that responses of salivation, brought about by seeing food, could also be generated by stimuli present during the presence of food. He observed this by doing an experiment with his dog; the fact that a bell was rang, just before the dog ate food, made it salivate every time it heard the bell, even though food was not present. This is what Pavlov referred to as classical conditioning. Skinner, on the other hand, came up with the operant conditioning perspective. His view was that behavior is only likely to be repeated, after getting a certain reward and that the repetition is dictated by the consequence of the same behavior. Edward Thorndike is another social scientist who supported the behaviorism approach. He stated that if there is a response to a situation, and it leads to a consequence that is satisfying, it is very likely that the response will be repeated, if the situation happens in future. He conducted an experiment using cats in puzzle boxes and realized that the time they took to escape from the box gradually reduced. He further attempted to see if the cats were using insight or whether they were gradually learning. His findings were that they were gradually learning, since the reduction in time used did not change abruptly, but instead changed gradually. The philosophy behind behaviorism is that a person can derive meaning, in the environment, without using personal experience (Ainslie, 2001). The instructional goals are framed in observable and specific behavioral terms. This approach looks at the immediate change in behavior, that can be recognized. In a learning environment, the instructor presents well structured materials to the student, and assesses his or her complete understanding of the same. The instructor focuses on interaction and presentation, offering individual students tutorial relationship. The students read provided materials and the assesses their mastery of the same, through individual tests and assignments. Since the general agreement is that stimuli leads to a specific response, most of this type of research is carried out with animals, in laboratories. It makes no difference in whether the response is observed using an experiment, as opposed to real life situations, if stimuli generates certain responses. The approach has been very useful in introducing humane education environments, since it was realized that rewards encouraging desirable behavior achieved better results, than punishments for undesirable behavior. Types There are basically three types of behaviorism; the first type is the methodological behaviorism. In this case, behaviorism is seen to ignore the mental state and other internal processes that affect behavior of an organism. This type of behaviorism sees no additional benefits that can be derived from consideration of an entitys desires or beliefs, in understanding patterns of behavior and therefore ignores them. This type of behaviorism views the mental state as a poor object of empirically studying the behavior of an entity. The second type of behaviorism is the psychological behaviorism and it tries to explain animal and human behavior as influenced by external stimulus. This is explained by Watsons experiment on the dog and bell, which is explained above. The dogs characteristic of salivating every time it hears the bell can be explained by this type of behaviorism. The third type of behaviorism is the analytical behaviorism, which is also called the logical behaviorism. This is a philosophical theory that explain the meanings of mental concepts and terms. It further goes on to explain that the idea of a mental condition or state is a behavioral disposition idea. Strengths According to Graham (2004), one of the strengths attributed to this approach is that it avoids regressive explanation of behaviors. This is through avoidance of explaining a form of behavior, using another form of behavior, that is, explaining overt behavior using covert behavior. This is achieved through ignoring mental activities, which are forms of behavior and using other forms non behavior, such as environmental stimulus, to explain behavior. Another strength that behaviorism possesses is that it is anti-nativist. Nativists believe that the mind at birth, has rules of processing that are used when learning. Behaviorism is supported by theorists since they believe that the mind learns through exposure to a stimulus and not through implicit procedures. Weaknesses. One weakness of behaviorism is the inadequate understanding of the effect of reinforcements on behaviors. The reinforcement should always increase frequency of responses, but this relies on the ability of the organism to recall the circumstances under which the stimuli was presented. This means that in the event that the organism forgets those circumstances, there will be no response to the stimuli. The second weakness is that this approach ignores the mental state and the inner motivation. This is commonly referred to as the black box and is usually ignored by behaviorism. The disadvantage of this ignorance is that both the mental state, and motivation play a part in determining the behavior of an individual. The third weakness is that for the organism to react to the stimuli, the reinforcement has to be consistent, otherwise the organism will not notice it. Some theorists regard intrinsic human conditions as limitation to this approach. These include loss of memory, presence of pain, paralysis of the body and the language barrier. All these can make the organism or human fail to respond to the reinforcement, either because they do not sense it, or they sense it but are unable to respond. Cognitivism Cognitivism is an approach that tries to study the inner processes that are ignored by behaviorism. Cognitivism attempts to open the black box that is closed by behaviorism. According to cognitivism, human minds process information, which makes it important to understand the processes, which include problem solving, remembering, attending and knowing work. Cognitivists relate to the computer language of input of information, and processing of the same, leading to output of information. Cognitivism started in the 1960s, when there were limited perspectives on approaches to behaviourism. Some of the theorists that were associated with cognitivism include; Robert Gagne, Jerome Bruner and Ausubel David. Ausubel stressed importance of content meaning, which could be associated with the pre-existing information. Bruner, on the other hand stressed the importance of motivation in the learning process, while Gagne defined the conditions of learning, which include intellectual skills, verbal information and cognitive processes. Questions were asked about the black box and someone had to open it. The basic view in this approach, is that the response to a situation by human beings is dictated by processing of information. Cognitive theorists view much of learning as taking place through repetition and contiguity. They view the role of reinforcement as more of provision of feedback on accuracy of a response, rather than motivation. It is easier to remember information with the following qualities; The first is meaningful effects, which means that meaningless information is difficult to remember and vice verse. Practice effects means that information that is rehearsed is easily remembered, especially if done with distributed practice (Place, 2000). Schema effects imply that it is difficult to remember information that cannot fit a persons schema. Mnemonic effects are used to transform meaningless words and expressions into meaningful semantics. State dependent effect means that it is easier to remember something, under the context it was taught in, than on a different context. Weaknesses The weakness with this approach is that the learner may not learn the best way of accomplishing a task, using this approach, since it might change in different situations. This means that the knowledge learned may not be applicable in solving new problems. For instance, the correct way to log into a computer may vary with the model and software being used. The other weakness, according to Kearsley (2007), is that this approach does not always work, this may be due to a combination of several factors. The brain cannot be taken to work exactly like a computer, since a computer is a machine. There are human factors that might hinder a person from effectively remembering what is learned, but the same cannot be said of a computer. The person might have stress or be exhausted and this affects the working of the processes. Constructivism This approach views learning as a process that is constructive and active. Learning is seen to occur when children construct representations of the information that they have acquired and processed. This requires the link between pre-existing knowledge and new information. This link is subjective and varies from one person to another, since everyone possesses different knowledge, brought about by undergoing different experiences. However, it is important that the pre-existing knowledge is stimulated in order for the person to remember it, and subsequently link it to the new information. Jonassens model Jonassen is a University of Missouri don and an expert in implementing innovative theories of learning. He designed a learning framework for curriculum development and the following are the elements; the first element is the plan for establishing and developing the instruction program. The second element is the methods for advancing existing programs, while the third is strategies for sustaining partnerships. The fourth is assessment of the instruction impacts and evaluation of the learners understanding. These guidelines help in transformation of students gestalt from the stage where they are confused to the stage where there is familiarity. Gestalt psychology This is a theory of the brain and mind that explains that the whole of the brain is not equal to the sum of the parts. It is used to explain how human senses work, especially in recognizing whole forms and figures. There are four properties in this approach and the first is emergence. Here, the vision is not properly visible. The second property is reification and here, the perception of the aspect is generated. The third stage is multistability and in this case, ambiguous perceptions moves between two possible interpretations. The last property is invariance and this is where geographical objects, simple in nature are recognized, even though they may be rotating or distorted in scale. Techniques The techniques used in constructivism include collaborative learning, where learners who have different backgrounds and skills discuss and do tasks together, such that they come to an agreement on the truth about a certain situation or circumstance. Another technique involves library research and the learners discover new facts by themselves, without the aid of the instructor. Similarly, field work excursions may also help the learners discover things as they are in real life, through conducting research on the ground. Learners can also learn through teaching, which is different from presentations, since the learners have the freedom to use their own approach to teaching. The strength of this approach is that it is useful for the learner when dealing with real-life situations. According to Robinson (2003), the basic forms of teaching using this method are coaching, scaffolding and modeling. These methods help the students in acquisition of cognitive skills, through practice and observation. Modeling provides an opportunity for the learner to observe problems and their solutions, in order to enable them to create conceptional models. Scaffolding and coaching provides feedback, hints and sometimes guidelines so that they are able to complete tasks. Examples of such forms of teaching are on-line message boards, workshops, simulations and games. Criticism While the constructivists state that learning can be enhanced by doing, critics argue that this is not always the case. They further argue that some novice learners lack schemas or the mental capability to learn through doing. Some critics even go further to say that years of research have not proved that the constructivist approach leads to discovery, and in the instances where discovery has occurred, this was as a result of guided discovery, through help by instructors. Some critics see the constructivism approach as impractical in certain fields since it reveals certain weaknesses, that are attributed to the constructivism approach, which they view as focusing on memorization as opposed to behavior action or change. For example, in a study done on medical students, project based learning revealed weaknesses in the students abilities to pass written tests, due to the bias in learning the experimental aspects. Principles of instructional design These are the principles that should be followed when undertaking instructional design, and their purpose is to achieve the objectives of instructional design. The first principle is the fairness and this implies that all learners should use equal means to achieve the requirements of the course. The instructions should be accessed by equally by all learners. Diversity and the different abilities of the learners should be taken into consideration. An example of such a learning environment is an on-line based course. The second principle that should be applied is the flexibility in participation, use and presentation of learning materials. This means that there should be several ways of accessing the learning materials, interacting with them, and evaluation of use of the materials. The instructions should be designed to satisfy the wide range of preferences of the learner. Examples of such learning environments are ones with provision of optional assignments, due dates and formats where possible. The third principle, according to Wells (2000), is consistent and straightforward instructions, and this means that the instructions should be clear and free from unnecessary distractions and complexities. This can be done through ensuring that grading, content, learning objectives and assignments are consistent. The fourth principle is explicitly presenting information, and this is where expectations of the course are clear. It also entails making all communication lines clear and removing any barriers to the same. It also involves presentation of the information in a multiple format. This can be achieved through making explicit expectations on assignments and providing a rubric or grading system. The fifth principle is a supportive environment for learning. This entails proper handling of mistakes made, and viewing them as opportunities for learning. It also involves minimizing the hazards that have the potential to cause irreversible failures and errors. An example of such a learning environment is one where very large assignments are broken into smaller components so that there are minimal errors by students. Another way to achieve this is to provide questions that are frequently asked during assessments. The other principal is having learning space that can accommodate all students and finally, minimizing unnecessary physical requirements or efforts by the students. This can be achieved by for instance, allowing the students to use word processors for a submission, and allowing the electronic submission of the assignments. Conclusion There are several approaches that can be used in instructional designs. Each approach has its own pros and cons. It is important to evaluate these before using an instructional design approach. The instructors should understand the learning process, when dealing with students, and the obstacles to learning so that they can avoid them. It is also clear that there are several principles that should be followed when practicing instructional designs. It is very important to create the right environment for learning, since that is what motivates students to learn. It is also important to take care of the diverse needs of learners since they come from different backgrounds, and most of all, equality should be observed regardless of the background of the learner. References. Ainslie, G. (2001). Breakdown of Will. Washington: AMACOM. Graham, G. (2004). Identifying the Mind: Selected Papers of U. T. Place. Oxford: Oxford

How Polluted Is The Brisbane River Environmental Sciences Essay

How Polluted Is The Brisbane River Environmental Sciences Essay This paper described the water pollution in Brisbane River and its effect in the environment and human health. It constructed an index that focuses on the effects and vulnerability to the environment. Councils and industries affect the Brisbane River by polluting and not following proper precautions. This paper examines the contaminants present and how primarily reduces its number. There is a wide range of industrial pollutants in Brisbane River discussed in this paper. It affects the Entire River and bodies of water around the location. These pollutants are generally addressed in various ways. Benefits of effective environmental management include improved water working conditions and reduced pollution incidents significantly due to industrial and structural processes. Some environmental advocates of water ecotourism choose to think of it as a true return to nature by minimizing realty development in natural areas and preserving their intrinsic beauty. The balance of costs and benef its is difficult to assess due to the insufficient data. Introduction The government initiated measures to control Brisbane water pollution by regulating its source that prevent the pollutants from being released into the atmosphere. Emission control systems set by the government are seen as the solution rather than considering ways to eliminate or minimize pollutant. By virtue of government mandate, the Environmental Protection Agency has been charged with the responsibility for developing programs on Hazardous waste regulation as well as a regulatory body for Brisbane River (Miller, 2008). The Environmental Protecting agency may make rules subject to the negative designation of hazardous substances and the performance standard, safeguard, procedures and licensing requirement with accordance with which such hazardous substances shall be handled. The management investigate the environment generally and such premises necessary to ascertain the nature of pollutants. It also develops and implements programs for the management of such wastes which include registration and further characterization of significant sources being disposed to the environment There is a wide range of industrial pollutants in Brisbane River that started when European settlement establish around the area causing pollution and increase waste products (Gleick Palaniappan, 2008). These include combustion and sewage products from power generation, transport and incineration. The common contaminants generated by these processes include, nitrous oxides, phosphoric substances, particulates, carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides. Effects of the development in the area such as industrial pollutants are directly affecting river as well as health of the population. There are also significant amount of sulfuric or nitric acid detected in aquatic reservoir that can destruct vegetation, drinking water, erode buildings and damage aquatic life in the River. The community utilizes Modification of the Transmission to disperse pollutants and most of the other waste products generated are re-shipped to manufacturers for recycling (Agar, 2001). An Analysis of Past and Current Pollution Levels SURVEY_DATE Nitrogen (total) as N (mg/L) Phosphorus (total) as P (mg/L) 4/10/2006 0.54 0.24 15/11/2006 0.52 0.23 15/12/2006 0.51 0.2 16/01/2007 0.46 0.2 14/02/2007 0.48 0.2 16/03/2007 0.47 0.19 17/04/2007 0.43 0.2 15/05/2007 0.51 0.25 14/06/2007 0.66 0.28 12/07/2007 0.56 0.25 10/08/2007 0.41 0.25 10/09/2007 0.5 0.24 9/10/2007 0.49 0.23 7/11/2007 0.55 0.25 5/12/2007 0.48 0.25 8/01/2008 0.7 0.31 5/02/2008 0.57 0.19 5/03/2008 0.35 0.098 4/04/2008 0.37 0.14 15/05/2008 0.44 0.17 17/06/2008 0.57 0.16 16/07/2008 0.57 0.17 15/08/2008 0.45 0.14 11/09/2008 0.38 0.13 13/10/2008 0.43 0.15 12/11/2008 0.46 0.15 10/12/2008 0.71 0.14 8/01/2009 0.58 0.1 9/02/2009 0.42 0.11 10/03/2009 0.59 0.17 8/04/2009 0.68 0.18 7/05/2009 0.48 0.13 5/06/2009 0.55 0.1 6/07/2009 0.71 0.095 5/08/2009 0.42 0.084 3/09/2009 0.5 0.12 5/10/2009 0.46 0.12 4/11/2009 0.3 0.088 3/12/2009 1.9 0.16 13/01/2010 0.51 0.11    These data can be used as a proxy for water pollution in general, which impacts on many aspects of the riverà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s ecosystem and public health including such things as quality of water and biodiversity. But there is no continuous data monitoring for Nitrogen and Phosphorus and other hazardous chemical in Brisbane River (Miller, 2008). Therefore estimation for this pollutant indicator could not be determined. The data indices was developed in the past which describe the risks associated with sustainability, climate change, economic and social conditions, climate change, natural disasters, anthropogenic impacts in the river. Most of these figures describe the vulnerability of human systems with only limited attempts having been made to describe effects of air pollution on the environment (Donald, 2002). Nature There is a wide range of industrial pollutants in Brisbane River. These pollutants are generally addressed in various ways. These include oil products from manufacturers, industries, transport and incineration. The common contaminants generated by these processes include phosphorus and nitrogen. There are also non-combustion sources. Examples of these are industrial processes, transportation, agriculture and construction that produce water pollutants and particulates (Gleick Palaniappan, 2008). These are release directly from the source into the water in a harmful form. A typical pollutant would be nitrogenous compound. Moreover, particulates are also present and serve as atmospheric pollutants that consist of the vapor phase of such compounds. Its chemical composition is depending upon source chemicals. The pollution level in the past years in Brisbane River is continually increasing partly because of industrialization and technology (Ostopowich, 2006). There is also inorganic water pollutants consist of many types of substances present in the river. Many of these liquid and solid substances may become particulate air contaminants. These inorganic water pollutants consist of sulfur, oxides of carbon, and nitrogen. Nitrogen and phosphorus are considered as a directly fatal and toxic material (Miller, 2008). Carbon dioxide in the water may turn out to be the most significant water pollutant of all because of its potential health hazard that might cause devastating water destruction. Oxides of nitrogen and sulfur are acid forming gases that can facilitate acid formation. These pollutants enter the water system as the result of industrial activities. The trends are continually fluctuating without normal ranges (Agar, 2001). Effects Water pollution from mechanical and industrial sources is the most widespread form of pollution in Brisbane River. It affects the Entire River and bodies of water around the location. Continuous Water protection monitoring is presently conducted in the river. Over the period 2000-2010 there has been a steady increase in the number of industries around the river (Gleick Palaniappan, 2008).The number of industrial processes in the area has remained more or less steady during this same period. There are pollution standard concentrations over a period of time that is considered to be acceptable on health and on the environment (Donald, 2002). They can also be used as a bench mark to see if water pollution is getting worse. Moreover, water pollution has a wide range of effects on human health resided along the river, ecosystems, structures and other human communities. Adverse effect and discomfort on human health and environment result to functional and physical damages. Australian Healt h Ministry reported incidence of respiratory diseases related to chemical pollutants around the area. They detected significant amount of phosphoric or nitrogenous chemicals in aquatic reservoir which can be attributed to acid rains. It can contaminate drinking water, vegetations and erode river wall buildings and damage aquatic life. Some environmental advocates of water ecotourism choose to think of it as a true return to nature by minimizing realty development in natural areas and preserving their intrinsic beauty. For example, instead of using up large tracts of land for building hotel complexes, these advocates prefer the construction of small, more ecologically friendly lodges that can take in a limited number of people only. The idea behind this thinking is to lessen the negative impact that tourist activities make on the environment, keeping consumption well within the carrying capacity of the area. (Miller, 2008). Others, however, see ecological benefits is being compromise because it accounts for benefits and uses that the host communities can get from the tourist activities in their area as well as the profits that travel agencies can also realize. They believe that conscientious consumption of the environmental resources and economic progress can be enjoyed simultaneously. The main thrust of this paper is therefore to determine if ecotourism he trending situations and is actually possible to reduce the pollutants, given the conflicting interests at play in these kinds of activities (Ostopowich, 2006). Control The number of collected data on control measures in Brisbane River is aggressively planned by our office (Environmental Protection Agency) with collaboration of various private and public sectors. It is difficult to determine accurately the percentage of effectively managed or controlled pollutants per year but the effort is continuous. Water pollutants resulted from industrial processes in the river is treated by different water treatment process (Gleick Palaniappan, 2008). It disperses pollutants to reduce the concentration at the susceptible target location to an acceptable level. The pollutant was transported with a considerable distance and transform to clean water. In this process, the water pollutants are brought to a designated area and are compacted. Most of the other waste products generated are re-shipped to manufacturers for recycling. In Trinidad only waste oil is recycled, therefore, given that 897.8 cubic meters of oil is generated per year, with 35.8 cubic meters bei ng recycled, the mean percent of hazardous waste recycled locally is about 4 per cent (Donald, 2002). Environmental Protection on water is also stressed out by the government. They prohibit the deposition or release of rubbish, scrap metal, motor vehicle parts, motor vehicle bodies, building waste, solid or liquid waste from an on-site domestic waste water treatment system, degreasing agent, paint, varnish or paint thinner or any manufactured product, or any by-product or waste from a manufacturing processes, that has a pH less than 6 or greater than nine (Agar, 2001). Recommendations The Environmental Protection agency gathers the most relevant information to come up with recommendations on how to decrease water pollution in Brisbane River. To help protect human health and ecosystem around Brisbane River, these recommendations suit to control and minimize water pollution Water quality indexes must be used to serve as warning for susceptible people of a possible air pollution health risk. The modified Environmental Vulnerability Index must aid to summarize a wide range of environmental vulnerability for Brisbane River. A significant number of data collections are requirement to extract important information from various government or private agencies and international environmental organizations the country Administrative controls and legislative protocol can be utilized to minimize or prevent the generation of pollutants by the adoption of appropriate industrial practices and rules for specific processes including maintenance, waste disposal procedures and management controls. Engineering measures and controls can be used by Industries to minimize or prevent the release of pollutants. This approach includes polluting material elimination and substitution to prevent harmful emission into the atmosphere. Modification of the process to eliminate or reduce emissions is also part of engineering control. Emission control systems are also effective method to discharge gas streams adequately Government must continually provide support for strengthening the environmental management capacity of participating agencies to provide advice and access to data in support of its activities relating to complaints, environmental emergencies, monitoring compliance, enforcement and assessment of the state of environment. Properly dissemination of information and co-coordinate activities to promote and enhance environmental awareness of the public. A Predictive Model of Future Pollution The establishment of the predictive mode for water pollution is basically outlined from environment law and the plan provided a new set of perspective and basic ideas for the future environmental policies and trend regarding water pollution. This model established a framework with a long-term course. The model is a prediction on how the Brisbane River will progress and how the present effort affects the future. Previously, pollution problems were regional and the resulting damage was easy to see. It was therefore relatively easy to appreciate the causes and effect (Gleick Palaniappan, 2008). By contrasting the present situation to the past, many of todays water and environmental problems are caused by the activities of human being and many different elements that go to build up current complex and huge economic society. In order to solve these environmental problem, collaboration and partnership is a very important component. Collaboration in this case involves various private and l ocal elements in society working together in sharing and cooperating responsibilities. It also contains understanding the relationship between the activities of human and the natural environment, and also the connection that between socio-economic activities and the ecosystem. (Miller, 2008) People around Brisbane River have always been dependent on the environment as well as many people around the world. It is significantly essential for us to take into consideration, and realize, the relationship that between people and his environment, and to open a way for a sustainable future with the active cooperation and involvement of all people (Ostopowich, 2006). Conclusions Human systems and the environment are dependent on one another so that risks to the environment will eventually translate into harm and risks for humans and their welfare. Air pollutants from industrial facilities and industrial processes in Brisbane River include: oil refineries, power plants, chemical plants and steel mills. The amount of emissions are variously controlled, licensed and permitted emissions by the government, Waste production indicator is based on the amount of wastes produced by industrial processes and pollutants being generated or brought into the river.

Wachovia information paper -- essays research papers

Are American CEOs Paid Too Much? Are American CEO’s overpaid? In my opinion, they are. In America today, CEO’s of various companies are known for their high position and for their high salary. According to the Business Journal, the average CEO’s of an S&P 500 firm earned $2.7 million yearly in 1992. By 2000, the average pay for these CEOs increased to more than 400 percent totaling to approximately $14 million per year. When compared to average workers, the pay increase is even more dramatic. Is this increase justifiable? In 1992, CEOs were paid 82 times the average of blue-collar workers. In 2004, this amount increased to over 400 times. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average production worker fared less well in 2003. Their annual pay was $26,899 in 2003, up just 2.1% from 2002. The average worker took home $517 in their weekly paycheck in 2003; the average large company CEO’s took home $155,769 in their weekly pay. If the minimum wage had increased as quickly as CEO pay since 1990, it would be $15.71 per hour today. This is more than three times the current minimum wage of $5.15 an hour. While workers are increasingly anxious about their job security, and how they will pay the rising costs of everything from health insurance to housing, from college to gasoline, corporate executives continue to distance themselves from the cares and worries of those they lead. It sends a poor message to demand cost cutting from the factory floor, while costs in the ...

A Speech Directed to Politicians About The Problem of Homelessness :: Papers

A Speech Directed to Politicians About The Problem of Homelessness Today, we are faced with an increasing problem in society – homelessness. When we walk down the street, we find many people sleeping rough, living a life with drugs and alcohol as their only comfort. We are all united in tackling this dilemma that forces local authorities in Britain to take responsibility for housing 110,790 homeless households and in London, 28,610. I alone cannot do it, which is why I need your help to set up bed and breakfasts, detox centres, charities and some solace for these people. It is our duty to help our nation bring itself up to scratch; it is our duty to help each other. â€Å"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you†. Not only do we need to find homes for the homeless. We need to help them kick the habit of drugs and get them to hospitals where their health can be cared for. Homeless people have a frequency of physical health problems two or three time higher than the general population. Also, more than half of the people sleeping rough on the street have mental health problems, more than half. They can be a danger to themselves and to others, which is why they absolutely need our help. An alarming thought is that the statistics only count the homeless people who have applied to local authorities for help, so I have no idea how many have not been accounted for who desperately need help. I have heard about too many cases of homeless people who abuse drugs, which have shocked me and will shock you as well. One of them was a nineteen-year-old called Francis - he wasn’t that sure of his age, just like many other things in his life. His teeth were rotting so badly there were just black shards of them left and he smelled of old faeces and sweat. His own mother had introduced him to drugs when he was just a fifteen-year-old and then dumped him and his brother in a

Sticking With Arnis

Somehow this sport is ignored and perhaps most Filipinos fail to recall it, and even the layers of Earns have been quite unnoticed. Take for example Tensile Palace. Despite all the accomplishments and contributions Palace has made for the school and the country through playing Earns, she unfortunately still does not seem to get the attention and appreciation she deserves. A passionate and graceful Earns varsity player born on April 4, 1 996, Hazels Gristliness R. Palace has given pride to the school and her country through her achievements in the sport.Truly, junior BBS Psychology student Tensile Palace is not just your ordinary Eaten. During one interview, Tensile hares that she just heard about Earns from her uncle when she was in fifth grade. He taught her Earns basically for self defense, but that was also the time when Tensile became engrossed to earns. However, it wasn't until college that she learned more about the sport and actually got to practice it. She started learning ea rns under Sir Richard Gallon in his PEE class.Soon and luckily enough, she was invited to become part of the Atone College Earns Varsity team the semester after. Everything escalated from then on. Of all the mainstream sports, Palace chose to play a snubbed sport. And so e ask, M/why Earns? Why not volleyball or basketball or any other mainstream sport? † Unexposed and out of sight, the MAC (Martial Arts Center) located near the college covered courts of ADAM is where Palace has regularly been practicing Earns for 2 years and 2 months now. Undeniably, she has grown in love with the sport.To her, what got her interested in Earns is because of its history. She was also inspired by the stories of Sir Gallon on how Earns was used in the past. She says Earns could say a lot about our cultural background as Filipinos. â€Å"l guess I just really felt that I could help reserve that cultural heritage and that part of our identity as Filipinos through learning Earns and most probably passing it on to the younger generations in the future. So it's not really about the sport and martial art being mainstream but the cultural heritage and sense of identity as Filipino,† says Tensile.Earns indeed has a huge part on our individuality as Filipinos and it contributes immensely to our cultural growth. This ignored martial art, Earns, is what completes us as countrymen. And because we are armed with one of the many Filipino prides, it is our responsibility to uphold this art. Holding on strongly to that obligation is none other than Tensile. As proof, besides being part of the Atone College Earns Varsity team, she is also a part of KAMALA (Kali Earns Martial Arts Organization) and the Philippine Demonstration Team.Moreover, she teaches Earns to grade 7 and 8 students from ASH every Wednesday to fulfill her duty of â€Å"passing it on to the younger generations. † Since Tensile bountifully gives her time and efforts to preserve Earns, she needs to manage her t ime well. The building where she just had her consultation with one of her professors was hundreds of steps away from he MAC, so she bustled through the buildings and roads in campus as she was late for her training on one Monday afternoon. She beamed, though catching her breath, when she saw me waiting for her at Managing, then she apologized for being late.Then and there, we started walking to their team's training ground. As I watched her train until the late-night hour, I contemplated on how she brings about her time. Admittedly, Tensile said that she has difficulty with time management; with piled-up school tasks, training and family time, she tries her best to balance and sacrifice time for each. Neglected school responsibilities is a big no-no because academics is her first priority, and to help herself out, she decided not to be part of any school organizations this school year.On the other hand, amidst all the busyness, keeping in touch with her family was never a failure f or her. She says she is very open to them. When her parents call her on the phone daily, she often talks about what happened during her training. â€Å"My friends also get updated on what's happening in my â€Å"Earns career†,† she laughs shyly. Although she is still a fresh competitor in the world of Earns, Tensile Palace has won numerous awards and only her university, family members and a couple friends recognized her success.Listed below are some of the awards she received for merely the past few months. In spite being nervous and pressured, Palace did not make these an excuse not to excel in her first kickoff in the world stage. She was one of the hand-picked members of KAMALA to represent the Philippines in the 2014 World Martial Arts Festival in South Korea last August. This once in a lifetime experience has encouraged her to pursue Earns more, and she is definitely determined to make Earns now as a sport and as a martial art.

Child of the Americas Essay

In the poem, â€Å"Child of the Americas,† Aurora Morales uses the literary element of repetition to illustrate how different cultures around the world can come together and become one as a whole. â€Å"I am a child of the Americas†¦I am a U. S. Puerto Rican Jew†¦ I am not Africa. Africa is in me†¦ I am not European. Europe lives in me†¦ I am new. History made me†¦ I am whole,† (Morales). Morales’ use of repetition illustrates all of the different characteristics she feels in her life. By using â€Å"I am†, Morales shows how she actually is a child of the Americas and a U. S. Puerto Rican Jew, however, she uses â€Å"I am not† to explain how she is not Africa nor European, but she believes Africa and Europe are part of the person she has become. The different ethnicities and locations mentioned show how each part of the world has influenced her way of being. Morales states that history has led her to becoming the person she is today. The conclusion of Morales’ poem ends with â€Å"I am whole† demonstrating that everyone has a piece of a culture in them that make them whole, no matter where they come from. Throughout, â€Å"Child of the Americas† Morales exemplifies how one person can have numerous cultures, be different ethnicities, or come from several locations, and still come together with other parts of the world and be a whole. Citations Morales, Aurora. â€Å"†Child of the Americas† by Aurora Levins Morales. † Child of the Americas by Aurora Levins Morales*. (2011): n. page. Web. 23 May. 2013. .

The Only Character Responsible for the Tyranny of Macbeth

‘The only character responsible for the tyranny of Macbeth is the man himself. Discuss' Macbeth is not the only person responsible for all the poorly made decisions and unjust ruling. This character based theme is shown extensively throughout the play ‘Macbeth' by William Shakespeare. During the play we are shown Macbeth as a tyrant ruler who is always killing people. Just at the start of the play we see Macbeth fighting against Norway and Ireland and at the end of the play Macbeth if fighting against Macduff and his army.Everyone around him influenced on his behaviour and caused him to kill many innocent people. the witches caused him to search for power because of their prophecies. Lady Macbeth used Macbeth to become queen and to do everything to stay like that. Banquo did not speak even though he knew the truth. Malcolm had got defeated to his fears which caused him to flee. All the major characters contributed into Macbeth's tyranny. The witches prophecies caused Macb eth to become a oppressor. Macbeth was a brave and courageous general before he met the witches which caused his life to change. For brave Macbeth-well he deserves that name. ‘ After Macbeth learned that the first prophecy which was that he would become the ‘Thane of Cawdor,' he believed in the witches more strongly. The other prophecy was that he shall ‘be king hereafter. ‘ Macbeth immediately begins to harbour ambitions to become king. After hearing what the witches said, he didn't want to leave it as a chance but rather take the matters into his own hands, and he kills king Duncan and becomes the new king. But if he had never learned those prophecies from the witches than he wouldn't have killed King Duncan.He goes to the witches second time and learns three new prophecies. One of those prophecies it to be ‘beware of Macduff,' which then causes Macbeth to attack Macduff's castle and kill his wife and his ‘babes. ‘ Therefore the witches ha d a huge influence on Macbeth and the actions in which he took. Lady Macbeth provoked Macbeth to kill Duncan. Lady Macbeth also had huge impact on Macbeth's life and on his journey towards kingship. Macbeth was not thinking about killing his king, but Lady Macbeth defeated his thought by challenging his manlihood. Was the hope drunk where in you dress'd yourself? Hath it slept since? ‘ She easily persuades Macbeth into killing King Duncan. Also Lady Macbeth is the one that's doing all the planning while Macbeth is the one implementing it. Lady Macbeth successfully convinces Macbeth into killing Banquo and his son Fleance because of Witches prophecy, ‘Thou shalt get kings. ‘ So it leaves Macbeth no choice but to kill his best friend. After Macbeth reaches the point of nihilist where he doesn't care how many people he kills.But Lady Macbeth feels the sense of guilt and goes crazy and sees imaginary bloodstains on her hands. ‘Out, damned spot! Out I say! ‘ She has great influence on decisions which Macbeth takes and easily convinces him. Banquo is also responsible for all the devastation caused by Macbeth. After Duncan is killed by Macbeth, Banquo becomes suspicious of Macbeth but does not confess this because he also believed in the witches prophecies regarding him which were, ‘Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none. He chose to stay silent and watch Macbeth kill all those innocent people because he was selfish. He saw that Macbeth's prophecies came true so he believed that his ones will become true. Macbeth became aware of this and added Banquo to his death list. But if Banquo had told the truth then he might've had been alive and would've saved the lives of innocent people. But he, just like Macbeth had fallen trap to his own self and payed it off with his life. But Banquo's son Fleance managed to escap, ‘Fly, good Fleance. Banquo stayed quiet which caused Macbeth to rule as a murderer. King Duncan's son's Malcolm a nd Donalbain flee leaving the throne to Macbeth. After Malcolm and Donalbain learn about their fathers murder, they fear that their lives may be in danger,'There's daggers in men's smiles, the near in blood, the nearer in bloody. ‘ So they decide to flee, which Malcolm goes to England,'I'll to England,' and Donalbain goes to Ireland,'To Ireland. ‘ But because they run away, people believe that they were responsible for Duncan's murder and rightfully give the throne to Macbeth.If they had stayed then Malcolm would have been the king because he had been chosen as the heir by King Duncan. They cared more about their life than their own family and values. By saving their own lives they caused many other innocent people to die. In conclusion the play,'Macbeth,' written by William Shakespeare is a tragedy which explores around Macbeth and his family and friends. Macbeth causes many tyranny events to occur but what causes to become a tyrant ruler is not only himself but also pe ople around him.People make decisions for him and controll his life to become a ruler who kills. The witches give him prophecies that he shall be king and he makes that come true by killing Duncan. In order to become King Lady Macbeth convinces Macbeth to kill Duncan and his best friend Banquo. In order for his son's to become king, Banquo becomes quiet even though he knows that Macbeth killed Duncan. Lastly Malcolm and Donalbain flee to different countries leaving the kingship to Macbeth. People around Macbeth cause him to become unjust and tyrant ruler. MUSTAFA TELLI

Protect Our Environment Essay

Losing my future is not like losing an election or a few points on the stock market. I am here to speak for all generations to come. I am here to speak on behalf of the starving children around the world whose cries go unheard. I am here to speak for the countless animals dying across this planet because they have nowhere left to go. We cannot afford to be not heard. I am afraid to go out in the sun now because of the holes in the ozone. I am afraid to breathe the air because I don’t know what chemicals are in it. In my life, I have dreamt of seeing the great herds of wild animals, jungles and rainforests full of birds and butterfilies, but now I wonder if they will even exist for my children to see. All this is happening before our eyes and yet we act as if we have all the time we want and all the solutions. I’m only a child and I don’t have all the solutions, but I want you to realise, neither do you! * You don’t know how to fix the holes in our ozone layer. * You don’t know how to bring salmon back up a dead stream. * You don’t know how to bring back an animal now extinct. And you can’t bring back forests that once grew where there is now desert. If you don’t know how to fix it, please stop breaking it! Here, you may be delegates of your governments, business people, organisers, reporters or poiticians – but really you are mothers and fathers, brothers and sister, aunts and uncles – and all of you are somebody’s child. Ià ¢â‚¬â„¢m only a child yet I know we are all part of a family, five billion strong, in fact, 30 million species strong and we all share the same air, water and soil — borders and governments will never change that. I’m only a child yet I know we are all in this together and should act as one single world towards one single goal. Many people say there is a need to protect the environment, but do not really make any effort to do anything about it. Are you one of these people? What can we do to encourage people to take action to protect the environment? Most people are increasingly aware of the need to protect our environment. Despite this, not many of us are really taking steps to reduce our impact on the planet. In this essay, I will suggest some steps each of us can take and some ways to motivate others to do the same. Many environmental problems seem so big that only governments, local authorities or big companies can deal with them. One example is global warming. We need government action to reduce emissions from coal and oil burning power stations and to develop safer sources of power. These require tough regulations and huge investment. The loss of forests and other habitat is another problem. How can we as individuals stop the destruction of the Amazon or Indonesian rain forests? Yet another example is waste. When people live in cities, they may not be able store or recycle waste, so huge landfills or incinerators are needed. However, as consumers, we are the ones responsible for all these problems. First of all, we all need to consume less power. We need to turn off lights, replace inefficient bulbs with low-power ones, and not leave equipment on standby. Secondly, we need to control our surging populations. Each of us can make a decision regarding family size. This has a huge impact on the size of our cities and the need for food and more agricultural land. In addition, we need to consider eating less meat and more vegetables and fruit, in order to reduce the amount of land needed for meat. Generally, the main step we need to take is to live more simply. We need to reduce our consumption, recycle, and reuse. In conclusion, our choices, however small, do have a real impact. If each of us made took two or three simple steps to live more simply, imagine the positive effect on the planet!