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The ecological footprint is a metric that measures the impact of human activities on the environment. It is calculated by considering the amount of land and resources required to produce the goods and services that a population consumes, as well as the amount of land and resources required to absorb…

Definition and Origin Intermediate technology, also known as appropriate technology, refers to simple and practical tools, basic machines, and engineering systems that can be economically accessible to farmers and rural communities in developing countries. The concept was first conceived by German-born British economist E.F. Schumacher after his visit to Burma…

Globalization has had a profound impact on the way we produce, distribute, and consume food. While it has undoubtedly brought benefits, such as improved access to imported materials and increased variety, it has also raised concerns about sustainability, exploitation, and the erosion of cultural identity. Key Facts Improved Access to…

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are designated areas of the ocean where human activities are restricted or prohibited to conserve marine resources, ecosystems, and cultural heritage. MPAs are established for various purposes, including protecting biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem health, supporting sustainable fisheries, and preserving cultural heritage sites. This article provides an overview…

Agenda 21 is a non-binding action plan of the United Nations with regard to sustainable development. It was adopted by 178 governments at the UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. The implementation of Agenda 21 was intended to involve action at international, national, regional,…

Pig manure is a rich source of essential plant nutrients and organic matter, making it a valuable fertilizer for crop production. It contains all 13 essential plant nutrients, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chlorine (Cl), boron…

Determining Nitrogen Content and Weight per Gallon To accurately determine liquid fertilizer application rates per acre, several key factors must be established. Firstly, the percentage of nitrogen in the fertilizer must be ascertained. This information is typically provided on the fertilizer label. For instance, a liquid fertilizer with a nitrogen…

Manure is an organic material derived from animal feces and urine, often used as a natural fertilizer in agriculture. Its composition can vary depending on the animal source, additional materials, and management practices. This article explores the composition, sources, nutrient content, organic matter, and environmental value of manure, highlighting its…

Soil pollution is the contamination of soil with harmful substances, which can have adverse effects on plants, animals, and human health. Soil pollution can be caused by a variety of human activities, including industrial activities, agricultural practices, and improper waste disposal. Key Facts Chemical Pollution: This type of soil pollution…

A food chain is a linear depiction of the transfer of energy and nutrients through different organisms in an ecosystem. It illustrates the sequence of organisms where each organism consumes the one below it in the chain, and is in turn consumed by the one above it. Food chains provide…

Erosion, a natural phenomenon, is a significant environmental issue due to its detrimental effects on vegetation, landscapes, agriculture, and property. The degraded land left behind by long-term erosion can resemble a wasteland. However, plants offer a sustainable solution to slow or control erosion. This article explores the basics of erosion…

A food web is a visual representation of the feeding relationships between different organisms in an ecosystem. It shows how energy and nutrients flow through the ecosystem, from primary producers to top predators. Food webs are important tools for understanding the structure and function of ecosystems, and they can be…

Sun-dried bricks, also known as adobe, represent one of the oldest building materials globally. They are renowned for their affordability, simplicity in production, and environmentally friendly nature. These bricks are widely used in constructing low-cost homes and fireproof structures worldwide. Key Facts Materials needed: Soil: Collect loamy soil, preferably from…

Cotton burr compost, a product derived from the leftover materials after cotton fiber harvesting and processing, is gaining popularity among gardeners for its beneficial properties. This article delves into the composition, nutrient content, soil improvement capabilities, and various applications of cotton burr compost, drawing from reputable sources such as Pesches…

Periwinkle (Vinca minor) is a beautiful and versatile plant with a rich history and diverse applications. Native to Europe, it was introduced to North America in the 1700s as an ornamental plant. However, it quickly escaped gardens and became an invasive weed in many regions (Lake Forest College, n.d.). This…

Periwinkle, a medicinal plant with a long history of traditional use, can be consumed in various ways. Two common methods of consumption include traditional tea preparation and the use of pure alkaloid preparations. Key Facts Traditional Use: Periwinkle has been traditionally consumed as a tea. One traditional recipe involves boiling…

The Midwest region of the United States is renowned for its agricultural prowess. This region, comprising eight states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin, is often referred to as the “Corn Belt” due to its extensive production of corn and soybeans. However, the Midwest’s agricultural landscape extends…

Organic coffee has gained significant popularity among health-conscious consumers due to its perceived benefits for human health and the environment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of organic coffee, exploring its unique characteristics, production methods, and potential advantages over conventionally grown coffee. By examining various aspects of organic…

Erosion is the process of wearing away of the Earth’s surface by water, wind, ice, and other natural forces. Human activities have significantly accelerated erosion rates, leading to several environmental and economic consequences. This article explores the primary ways humans cause erosion, drawing upon reputable sources such as the University…

Static compaction is a soil compaction technique that utilizes the weight of a machine and applies downward force to achieve compaction. This method is commonly employed in various construction and civil engineering projects to enhance soil stability, reduce settlement, and improve load-bearing capacity. Key Facts Definition: Static compaction is a…