Environmental Science as a function in the modern day has seen a significant transformation due to the awareness of the community. A relatively ambiguous term, environmental science focuses on integrating the both science with the environment. Science can come in the form of geography, physics or even social science. It looks at the intertwining relationships between the two disciplines and how they function.
The growth and attractiveness of the alternative energy sector has helped boost the understanding of the impacts of pollution and green house gas emissions. Environmental Scientists have also impacted a number of industries and sectors through a different perception or train of thought from the general population or community. In many cases people will only see the problem in its final stages. Environmental Science has become a key discipline in defining an early response to carbon emissions and green house gas issues. Highlighted below are some of the areas that ES has an impact:
1. Alternative Energy: Developing effective strategies to transform waste into power. The concept is revolutionary and only in its infant stages. The idea behind alternative energy comes from the persistent need to satisfy a growing and demanding population. Over the last 100 years, the global population has risen considerably, which has put a significant strain on traditional energy sources. Environmental Science has brought a new train of thought to the debate and revolutionised the idea of Alternative energy.
2. Geo Science: Geoscience is the study of soil, rocks and sediment from the Earth and how it is affected or is affecting changes in the environment. Environmental Scientists have used geo science to developing effective strategies to extract nutrients at a more sustainable rate. For example a mining company that is extracting uranium, may now be able to utilise distinctive geo science technology which would limit the impact on the environment, whilst being able to extract the core mineral.
3. Health: Environmental Scientists have helped in warning communities of the dangerous effects of water contamination, and inhabiting areas that surround elevated levels of waste. By testing certain aspects of the environment, including the water table, and shrubbery, ES can effectively highlight the areas of concern.
Environmental Science has played a pivotal role over the last 50 years in defining how we interact with our environment. With the advancements in alternative energy, the industry will continue to enhance both energy use and production, which will benefit future generations.
