Environmental Science

ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 01 02 03 04 WEEK 1 TOPIC OVERVIEW What is Environmental Science? Earth’s Timeline Humans and the Environment Sustainable Development • Proterozoic Eon • Oxygen begins to accumulate in the atmosphere (Great Oxidation Event). • Development of eukaryotic cells (cells with nuclei). • First multicellular organisms appear. WHAT IS ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE? • • Atmosphere lacks oxygen. Is the systematic study of the environment and how humans interact with it. It is interdisciplinary, combining natural sciences (ecology, chemistry, earth science), social sciences (economics, anthropology), humanities, and policy studies. Phanerozoic Eon Core Goals of Environmental Science ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ • Explosion of visible life forms. • Plants and animals diversify in oceans and later land. • Includes major mass extinctions and the rise of vertebrates. • Humans appear near the very end of this eon. Explain how natural systems function. Understand biodiversity and ecological relationships. Identify major environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change. Apply critical thinking to develop sustainable. EARTH’S TIMELINE Anthropocene Anthropocene is a proposed geological time period that recognizes humans as a dominant force shaping Earth’s systems. Hadean Eon • Earth forms from cosmic dust and debris. • Extreme heat, volcanic activity, and meteor impacts dominate. • Oceans begin to form as the planet cools. Archean Eon • First stable continents and oceans appear. • Earliest life forms emerge (simple, singlecelled organisms). • The Anthropocene is the era when ANTHROPOCENE human activity began shaping Earth’s climate, ecosystems, and geology. Starting with the Industrial Revolution, industrialization, population growth, and resource use triggered global environmental impacts. Today, this era challenges the planet, calling for urgent action in sustainability and stewardship. Pre-Anthropocene Ideas Before 1800s • Early thinkers recognized that humans could influence the Earth. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE • • Concepts such as the “Anthropozoic Era” and “Noösphere” suggested that human activity and thought could shape nature. These ideas laid the foundation for later discussions about human dominance over Earth systems. Industrial Evolution (About 1800s) • Marked by the invention of the steam engine and widespread use of coal and fossil fuels. • Human activities began altering land use, energy systems, and atmospheric composition. • Considered a major turning point toward the Anthropocene. o o o Stage 1: The Industrial Era (1800 – 1945) ➢ Rapid growth of industries using coal, oil, and gas. ➢ Expansion of agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. ➢ Increasing environmental changes, but impacts were still regionally concentrated. Stage 2: The Great Acceleration (1945 – Present) ➢ Massive growth in human population, consumption, and technology after World War II. ➢ Sharp increases in pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. ➢ Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels rose dramatically. ➢ Human impacts became global, affecting oceans, climate, and ecosystems worldwide. Stage 3: Stewardship of the Earth System (Proposed – Present) ➢ A proposed stage where humans become fully aware of their environmental impacts. ➢ Emphasizes sustainability, global cooperation, and responsible management of Earth systems. Includes efforts such as climate agreements and sustainable development goals. ➢ The success remains uncertain. HUMANS AND THE ENVIRONMENT Major Environmental Themes and Challenges Sustainable Development Sustainable development asks how societies can meet human needs while protecting ecosystems for future generations. It addresses population growth, food security, water availability, energy demand, and biodiversity conservation under increasing human pressure. Climate Change Climate change is the most urgent global environmental issue. Rising greenhouse gas levels have already increased global temperatures, intensifying droughts, storms, floods, and wildfires. Population Growth and Resource Consumption The global population has reached about 8 billion, with continued growth projected. Although fertility rates are declining worldwide, rising per-person consumption, especially in wealthier societies, places heavy pressure on resources. Hunger and Food Systems Despite increased global food production, hunger persists due to conflict, inequality, and climate change. Small-scale farmers still produce most of the world’s food, raising important questions about how to support food security while maintaining environmental sustainability. Biodiversity Loss and Conservation Human activities are driving species extinction at alarming rates through habitat destruction, pollution, and overexploitation. However, conservation efforts such as protected areas, restoration ecology, and international agreements ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE show that recovery is possible when protection is prioritized Key Roles of UN in Sustainable Development Goals Pollution and Environmental Health Air and water pollution continue to threaten human health, especially in developing regions. Millions of deaths each year are linked to pollution. However, pollution control technologies are effective, and many regions have demonstrated that strong policies can significantly improve environmental quality. Water Resources Freshwater availability is a growing concern due to climate change, pollution, and overuse. While access to clean water and sanitation has improved globally, water scarcity remains a major driver of illness, poverty, and displacement. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Setting the Global Framework • The UN developed the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015 as a shared global agenda to end poverty, protect the environment, and ensure peace and prosperity by 2030. These goals guide countries in aligning development efforts. Promoting International Cooperation • The UN brings together governments, organizations, and stakeholders to work collectively. It encourages partnerships among countries, especially to support developing nations through funding, technology transfer, and capacity building. Poverty affects health, education, safety, and overall quality of life. Although global poverty has declined, environmental quality has often declined as well. Sustainable development seeks to reduce poverty without destroying environmental resources, recognizing that poverty and environmental degradation are closely linked. The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after World War II. It aims to maintain peace and security, promote human rights, support economic and social development, and encourage international cooperation among countries. Today, almost all countries in the world are members of the UN. The UN leads the global effort in sustainable development by setting shared goals, helping countries work together, providing expert support, monitoring progress, and ensuring that development benefits both people and the environment now and in the future. Promoting Technical and Policy Support • Through agencies like UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, FAO, and UNESCO, the UN helps countries design policies, programs, and laws aligned with the SDGs, including education, health, environment, and poverty reduction initiatives. Monitoring and Reporting Progress • The UN helps mobilize financial resources from international donors, development banks, and private sectors to support sustainable development projects, particularly in vulnerable communities. Mobilizing Resources and Funding • The UN collects data, sets indicators, and publishes reports to track countries’ progress toward the SDGs. This helps identify gaps, successes, and areas needing improvement. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Advocacy and Awareness • The UN raises global awareness about sustainable development issues such as climate change, inequality, and environmental protection, encouraging governments and citizens to action. • • Ensuring Inclusivity and Equity • A key UN principle is “leaving no one behind.” The UN ensures that women, children, indigenous peoples, and marginalized groups are included in development planning and benefits. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 global goals adopted by all UN member states in 2015. They serve as a shared plan to end poverty, protect the environment, and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030.The SDGs recognize that social, economic, and environmental issues are interconnected. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. No Poverty Zero Hunger Good Health and Well-Being Quality Education Gender Equality Clean Water and Sanitation Affordable and Clean Energy Decent Work and Economic Growth Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure Reduced Inequalities Sustainable Cities and Communities Responsible Consumption and Production Climate Action Life Below Water Life on Land Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions Partnerships for the Goals 01 02 03 What is a System? • A system is a network of interdependent components. • Components interact through flows of energy and matter. • Examples: Ecosystems, rivers, climate systems, human body Earth as a System • The Earth functions as a system, a network of interdependent components and processes where matter, energy, and resources flow between parts. Types of System 1. Open – exchange matter and energy with surroundings. 2. Closed – rare, minimal exchange. 3. Pseudo-closed – limited exchange of energy, not matter. Properties of System • • • • They provide a global framework for sustainable development. They guide government policies, education, and development programs. WEEK 2 TOPIC OVERVIEW System and Its Properties Spheres of Earth Energy Flow and Thermodynamics SYSTEM AND ITS PROPERTIES Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) • They emphasize equity, ensuring that no one is left behind. They promote shared responsibility among countries, communities, and individuals. Emergent Properties arise when a system is more than the sum of its parts, such as ecosystem diversity, structure, or beauty. Systems exhibit homeostasis (stability) and resilience (ability to recover from disturbances). Disturbances (fires, droughts) can be normal and sometimes essential for maintaining dynamic equilibrium. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE SPHERES OF EARTH Cycle of Energy and Matter Earth is composed of four interconnected, interacting subsystems which constantly exchange matter and energy. Together, these systems shape the planet's climate, geology, and environment. Photosynthesis • Captures solar energy in chlorophyll, converting CO2 and water into glucose (chemical energy) and oxygen • • • • Geosphere is the part of Earth that includes all the rocks, minerals, landforms, and the ground beneath our feet. Hydrosphere includes all the water on Earth. This means oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, glaciers, and even the water underground. Atmosphere includes all the water on Earth. This means oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, glaciers, and even the water underground. Biosphere includes all living things on Earth, such as plants, animals, and even tiny microorganisms. ENERGY FLOW AND THERMODYNAMICS Thermodynamics is the study of energy flow and transformation. It explains how energy moves through ecosystems and living organisms. First Law of Thermodynamics • Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. • Examples in ecosystems: • Solar energy → chemical energy in plants (photosynthesis) • Chemical energy in glucose → kinetic energy in animals (movement). Second Law of Thermodynamics • Every energy transfer loses some energy as heat, which is less useful for doing work. • Energy tends to degrade to lower-quality forms; disorder (entropy) increases over time. • Examples in ecosystems: When an animal eats food, only part of the chemical energy is used for growth; the rest is lost as heat. • Energy flow is one-way, unlike matter, which cycles. Cellular Respiration • Releases the stored energy in glucose by breaking it down, producing CO2, water, and usable energy. Energy Flow in Ecosystems Energy Flow refers to how energy moves through an ecosystem. from the sun to all the organisms. Unlike matter, energy flows in one direction and cannot be recycled in the ecosystem. Energy Input: The Sun ✓ The Sun is the primary source of energy for almost all ecosystems. ✓ Solar energy is captured by producers (plants, algae, and some bacteria) during photosynthesis. Producers (Autotrophs) ✓ Producers create energy-rich organic molecules (like glucose) from sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. ✓ They form the base of the food chain. ✓ Examples: plants, algae, cyanobacteria. Consumers (Heterotrophs) ✓ Consumers obtain energy by eating other organisms. ✓ Primary consumers (herbivores) eat producers ✓ Secondary consumers (carnivores) eat herbivores. ✓ Tertiary consumers (top predators) eat secondary consumers. Decomposers (Detritivores) ✓ Decomposers recycle nutrients by breaking down dead organisms and waste, returning matter to the soil and water. ✓ They do not create new energy, but they are essential for maintaining ecosystem productivity. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Energy Pyramids Energy flow can be visualized as pyramids, showing the decreasing energy at higher trophic levels: 1. Energy Pyramid: Shows energy loss at each trophic level. 2. Biomass Pyramid: Shows the mass of living matter at each level. 3. Numbers Pyramid: Shows the number of organisms at each level. A food web is a network of interconnected food chains. ✓ ✓ ✓ Models of Energy Flow 01 02 03 04 05 Most consumers eat multiple species; most prey have multiple predators. Food webs illustrate complex energy flow and matter cycling in ecosystems. Decomposers (fungi, bacteria, detritivores) recycle nutrients by breaking down dead organisms and wastes, supporting productivity at all levels. WEEK 3 TOPIC OVERVIEW Energy (Importance and Use) Types of Energy Resources Biogeochemical Cycles (Types and its Importance) Environmental Issues SGD7: Affordable and Clean Energy ENERGY (IMPORTANCE AND USE) A food chain is a linear series showing who eats whom. Its trophic levels are: 1. Producers – make their own food via photosynthesis. 2. Primary consumers (herbivores) – eat producers. 3. Secondary consumers (carnivores) – eat primary consumers. 4. Tertiary consumers (top carnivores) – eat secondary consumers. Energy is the capacity to do work and exists in many forms such as mechanical, thermal, chemical, and electrical energy. It cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. It is essential for economic growth and modern living, but its production and use can also impact the environment, making responsible management important. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Importance • Energy plays a key role in the process of economic growth of a nation. • Energy is also indispensable for agriculture, transport, business and domestic requirements. • Energy is measured in joules in Si units. Uses • Energy is a primary input in any industrial operation. • It is also a major input in sectors such as commerce, transport, telecommunications etc. • The wide range of services required in the household and industrial sectors. • Forms ✓ Solar o o ✓ TYPES OF ENERGY RESOURCES 1. Non-renewable Energy 2. Renewable Energy 3. Nuclear Energy Non-Renewable Energy • • Non-renewable resources are natural resources that exist in limited amounts and cannot be replaced quickly once used. Best example of this is fossil fuels, a nonrenewable energy resources formed from buried plants and animals over millions of years. They include coal (solid), crude oil (liquid), and natural gas (gas). Form ✓ Fossil o Coal is a carbon-rich fuel formed from ancient plant material. o Crude oil is a liquid fossil fuel refined into petrol and other products o Natural gas is extracted by drilling into rock formations. It produces less CO₂ than other fossil fuels, making it a relatively cleaner energy source. ✓ ✓ ✓ Renewable Energy • Renewable energy systems use resources that are constantly replaced and are usually less polluting. Examples include hydropower, solar, wind, and geothermal (energy from the heat inside the earth). ✓ The energy is derived from the sun. A few solar equipment has been developed to utilize sun rays to heat water, to cook food, to pump water and to run certain machines and used for street lighting, railway signals etc. o DC – direct, straight flow, small scale o AC – alternates, swings back and forth, large scale. Hydro-Power o Electrical power is generated by hydro-electric projects in which dams are constructed across the river. o The kinetic energy of water is converted into mechanical energy by means of turbines and in turn, the mechanical energy is transferred into electrical energy by generators. Geothermal o Geothermal energy is stored in underground rock formations, where temperatures rise with depth, reaching around 4000°C in the crust. Geysers and hot springs are natural sources, with steam tapped via drilling to generate power. Wind o Wind energy is the kinetic energy of moving air. Windmills convert 30– 40% of this energy into electricity at 8.5 m/s wind speed. Efficiency improves with higher wind speeds and longer rotor blades. Ocean o Seas and oceans are large water bodies. Seas absorb solar radiation and large amounts of solar energy are stored in the tides and waves of the ocean. Ocean energy is non –polluting in nature and suitable at a few places only. Biomass o Biomass is an organic material from living beings or its residues. It is a renewable ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE o source of energy derived from the waste of various human and natural activities. The simplest way of using bio-mass energy sources is to allow them to dry out in the sun and burn them. Nuclear Energy • • It is the energy which is trapped inside the atom. It is a non–renewable source of energy that is released during the fission or fusion of certain radioactive elements. The key advantage of atomic power is its ability to produce huge energy from a small amount of fuel. Forms ✓ Nuclear Fission o The nucleus in atoms is split by fast moving neutrons and in turn a tremendous amount of energy in the form of heat, light etc. is released by a chain of reactions. Uranium is used as fuel. o The energy released slowly in this process is utilized to generate electricity or else released suddenly all at once, results a tremendous explosion as in the case of Atom bomb. ✓ Nuclear Fusion o Nuclear energy can be generated by fusion process which involves two hydrogen atoms combine to produce one helium atom. o Nuclear waste from mining, fuel production, and reactors poses longterm environmental risks, making its disposal a national and global challenge. BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES • • Biogeochemical cycles describe how essential elements and water move continuously between living (biotic) and nonliving (abiotic) components of Earth. These cycles maintain the conditions necessary for life by recycling materials through the atmosphere, land, water, and organisms. Cycles 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Carbon Oxygen Nitrogen Phosphorus Sulfur Water Carbon Cycle The process by which carbon circulates through the atmosphere, oceans, soil, rocks, and living organisms. Oxygen Cycle The circulation of oxygen through the atmosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere. Nitrogen Cycle The cycle that converts nitrogen into usable chemical forms and returns it to the atmosphere. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Phosphorus Cycle The movement of phosphorus through rocks, soil, water, and organisms without a major atmospheric phase. Sulfur Cycle Importance Living Things • Supply essential elements (water, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, oxygen, sulfur) needed for life. • Support processes like photosynthesis, respiration, growth, and reproduction. • Maintain nutrient availability in ecosystems. • Help regulate climate and environmental conditions necessary for survival. Non-Living Things • Maintain balance of gases in the atmosphere (O₂, CO₂, N₂). • Regulate climate and temperature. • Influence soil formation and fertility. • Control water distribution and availability. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES Global Warming Caused by excess CO₂ and greenhouse gases in the carbon cycle due to burning fossil fuels and deforestation. The movement of sulfur through the atmosphere, land, water, and living organisms. Water Cycle Acid Rain Linked to the sulfur and nitrogen cycles when SO₂ and NO from industries react with water vapor. Ocean Acidification Excess atmospheric CO₂ dissolves in oceans, lowering pH and affecting marine life. Eutrophication Excess nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers cause algal blooms and oxygen depletion in water bodies. Air Pollution Disruption of oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur cycles contributes to smog and respiratory problems. SGD7: AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY The continuous movement of water between the oceans, atmosphere, land, and living organisms. Main Purpose • Provide universal access to electricity and clean cooking solutions. • Increase the share of renewable energy (such as solar and wind). ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE • • Improve energy efficiency worldwide. Promote sustainable energy infrastructure and technology. Projects • Philippines–Masdar Renewable Energy Partnership – A $15 billion deal to build solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems, aiming to add up to 1 GW (and potentially up to 10 GW) of clean power capacity by 2030– 2035, supporting the nation’s shift from fossil fuels to renewables. • Green Energy Auction Program (GEA-4) – The Philippines awarded over 10.19 GW of renewable capacity (solar, wind, floating solar, and storage) for projects to be developed by 2029, accelerating clean energy expansion. • DOE-endorsed Renewable Projects – The Department of Energy has endorsed numerous solar, wind, hydro, and biomass power projects (totaling hundreds of megawatts), advancing clean energy integration with the national grid. Academic & Local Community Initiatives • Sorsogon State University (SorSU) – Implements energy-efficient measures and community renewable energy initiatives to reduce reliance on non-renewables and increase clean energy access. • Rizal Technological University (RTU) – Uses a solar-powered automated mushroom system to showcase clean energy use and promote sustainability in agriculture. • Caraga State University (CSU) Green Fiber Project – Supports the integration of solar PV and energy-efficient solutions into local livelihood practices, aligning with renewable energy goals. 01 02 03 04 05 WEEK 4 TOPIC OVERVIEW Water System and Its Properties Forms and Uses of Water Resources Water Contamination Water Pollution Clean Water Laws in the Philippines WATER SYSTEMS AND ITS PROPERTIES The water system, or hydrosphere, is an integral component of the Earth system, encompassing all liquid, solid, and gaseous water on, above, and below the surface. It drives climate, shapes landforms, and sustains life through the continuous water cycle, connecting the atmosphere, geosphere, and biosphere. Properties ✓ Less than 3% of Earth’s water is freshwater, and about 87% of that is frozen in ice and snow, leaving very little liquid freshwater accessible. ✓ Water continuously moves through the hydrologic cycle, driven by solar energy. It evaporates, condenses, falls as precipitation, infiltrates the soil, flows as runoff, and returns to oceans. ✓ Water distribution is uneven globally due to atmospheric circulation, proximity to oceans, and topography (mountains create rain shadows). ✓ Water has different residence times in reservoirs (e.g., days in the atmosphere, thousands of years in oceans and glaciers). ✓ Although renewable, freshwater is limited and vulnerable to overuse and contamination. FORMS AND USES OF WATER RESOURCES Forms of Water Resources A. Oceans (Saltwater) o Contain about 97% of Earth’s water. o Not suitable for most human uses without desalination. B. Ice and Snow (Glaciers) o Store about 87% freshwater. o Found in Antarctica, Greenland, and mountain regions. o Major source of river systems. o Climate change is reducing glacier mass, threatening water supplies. C. Groundwater o Second largest freshwater reservoir. o Stored in underground layers called aquifers. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Recharged through infiltration of rainwater. o Move slowly underground. o Over-extraction leads to falling water tables and depletion. D. Surface Water o Includes rivers, lakes, streams, and wetlands. o Small percentage of total freshwater but most accessible for human use. o Wetlands regulate floods and recharge aquifers. E. Atmospheric Water o Small reservoir with short residence time. o Essential for precipitation and redistribution of freshwater. • • Uses of Water Resources • o Higher usage in developed countries. Includes toilet flushing, washing, landscaping. and WATER CONTAMINATION Water contamination reduces water quality and makes it unsafe for human use and ecosystems. Biological • • • Caused by living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Common sources: sewage, animal waste, untreated wastewater. Could cause waterborne diseases like diarrhea and cholera. Major problem in areas without proper sanitation. Physical • • • Involves suspended particles such as sediment, soil, and organic matter. Caused by erosion, runoff, floods, and construction. Makes water cloudy (turbid) and can affect aquatic life. Chemical Agriculture (Largest User – 72.9%) • Mainly for irrigation. • Water-intensive crops (rice, beef production). • Irrigation methods: ⚬ Flood irrigation (inefficient, high evaporation loss) ⚬ Sprinkler systems ⚬ Drip irrigation (most efficient) Industrial Use (20.8%) • Power generation. • Mining and oil extraction. • Manufacturing processes. • Often water returns but may contaminate it. Domestic Use (6.3%) • Drinking, cooking, bathing, and sanitation. • • • Caused by harmful chemicals entering water. Sources include Industrial waste, Agricultural fertilizers and pesticides, Mining chemicals (e.g., mercury, cyanide) and Oil and fuel leaks It can cause long-term health problems and ecosystem damage. Groundwater Contamination ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Sources • Landfills • Septic Tanks • Agriculture • Aquifer Effects: o o o o Key Processes • Seepage – Water slowly moving through soil. • Leakage – Waste escaping from septic systems. • Runoff – Water flowing over land carrying chemicals. • Percolation – Downward movement of water into groundwater. Groundwater Contamination Can Cause • Drinking water pollution • Spread of diseases (biological contamination) • Chemical poisoning (nitrates, pesticides) • Long-term environmental damage WATER POLLUTION Is any physical, biological, or chemical change in water quality that: o Harms living organisms o It makes water unsafe for drinking, agriculture, industry, or recreation. Major Factors Causing Water Pollution Biological factors Weakens coral reefs and shellforming organisms. Disrupts marine food chains Reduces fish populations Threatens coastal economies WATER SHORTAGE ✓ Happens when demand exceeds supply or when water becomes unusable due to pollution. Factors Causing Water Shortage o Population growth o Overuse of water resources o Pollution o Climate change o Unequal Distribution o Reduced Dilution capacity How is water shortage related to water pollution and ocean acidification? Water pollution contributes to water shortage because: ▪ Polluted water becomes unsafe. ▪ Treatment becomes expensive. ▪ Less usable freshwater remains available. Ocean acidification, while mainly affecting marine ecosystems, is also part of global water quality degradation caused by human activities. CLEAN WATER LAWS IN THE PHILIPPINES Thermal Pollution Chemical factors Water pollution Sediment Pollution Nutrient Pollution OCEAN ACIDIFICATION ✓ Occurs when excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere dissolves into seawater, forming carbonic acid and lowering ocean ph. Causes: o o o PHILIPPINE CLEAN WATER ACT OF 2004 • The main law that protects the country’s water bodies from pollution. Burning fossil fuels Industrial activities Deforestation Purpose: o Prevent and control water pollution o Protect rivers, lakes, groundwater, and coastal waters o Promote wastewater treatment and proper sewage systems Key Provisions: o Requires industries and establishments to treat wastewater before discharge o Establishes Water Quality Management Areas (WQMAs) ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE o o Impose fines and penalties for illegal discharge Requires permits for wastewater discharge Implementing Agency: o Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) CODE ON SANITATION OF THE PHILIPPINES Focus: o Public health and sanitation. Purpose: o Ensure safe drinking water o Proper sewage disposal o Preventing waterborne diseases Implemented by: o Department of Health (DOH) Importance of Water: o Prevents chemical contamination groundwater and surface water. of Common Goals These laws aim to: ✓ Protect freshwater and marine ecosystems ✓ Preventing groundwater contamination ✓ Reduce industrial and domestic pollution ✓ Ensure safe drinking water Despite strong laws, problems remain due to: ✓ Weak enforcements ✓ Informal settlements without sewage systems ✓ Industrial violations ✓ Agricultural runoff ✓ Limited wastewater treatment facilities PHILIPPINE ENVIRONMENT CODE Focus: o General environmental including water quality. 01 02 03 04 05 06 management, Purpose: o Set standards for water quality o Regulate waste disposal o Protecting natural resources ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ACT OF 2000 POLLUTION • Relation to Water: Improper solid waste disposal causes water pollution. • Purpose: o Promote waste segregation o Establish sanitary landfills o Prevent garbage from entering rivers and oceans TOXIC SUBSTANCES AND HAZARDOUS AND NUCLEAR WASTES CONTROL ACT OF 1990 Focus: o Control of hazardous chemicals and toxic waste. WEEK 5 TOPIC OVERVIEW Pollution Land Pollution Air Pollution Noise Pollution Light Pollution Laws According to ODUM (1971), Pollution is “an undesirable change in the characteristics of air, water, and land that harmfully affect life and also create health hazards for all living organisms on the globe”. According to SOUTHWICK (1976), Pollution can be defined as “the unfavorable (or) alteration of the environment caused by human activities and causing harm to human beings”. Types of Pollution Natural Pollution • This type of pollution is limited in its occurrence, generally from natural hazards like volcanic eruptions, emissions of natural gas, soil erosion, ultraviolet rays, cosmic rays etc. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Manmade Pollution • Most of the pollution is man made only. However, Pollution is usually categorized as Air Pollution; Water Pollution; Thermal Pollution; Noise Pollution; Land & soil Pollution; Radioactive Pollution and Marine Pollution LAND POLLUTION • • Refers to the degradation of the Earth’s land surface due to the accumulation of solid waste, toxic chemicals, industrial materials, and other harmful substances. It damages soil quality, affects plant and animal life, contaminates water sources, and threatens human health. Main Causes 1. Improper Waste Disposal 2. Agricultural Practices 3. Deforestation and Land Clearing 4. Urbanization and Construction Common Land Pollutants 1. Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, arsenic) 2. Petroleum hydrocarbons 3. Pesticides and herbicides 4. Industrial chemicals and solvents 5. Radioactive materials 6. Solid waste (plastics, paper, glass, metal) Effects of Land Pollution ▪ Reduced crop yield ▪ Lower nutritional quality Agricultural of food ▪ Increased pest and disease attacks ▪ ▪ Environmental ▪ ▪ ▪ Loss of soil fertility Destruction of vegetation Habitat loss and reduced biodiversity Soil erosion and flooding Groundwater contamination ▪ Health and Urban ▪ ▪ ▪ Contaminated drinking water Spread of diseases Foul odors and toxic gas release Waste management problems Mining Mining is the extraction of valuable minerals and geological materials from the Earth. It involves four main stages: 1. Prospecting – Searching for mineral deposits 2. Exploration – Studying the size, shape, and location of deposits 3. Development – Preparing access to extract minerals 4. Exploitation – Actual extraction of minerals TYPES OF MINING A. Surface Mining – used when minerals are near the Earth’s surface. It removes soil and rocks covering the ore. Types include: o Open-pit mining – Large pits are dug to extract ore o Strip mining – Ore is removed in long strips o Quarrying – Extracts rocks for building materials B. Underground Mining – used when minerals are deep underground. o Tunnels are built to reach ore deposits o More expensive and dangerous o Requires ventilation and lighting MINING PRODUCTS Mining extracts materials such as: ▪ Metal ores (gold, copper, iron) ▪ Coal ▪ Rocks and minerals for (limestone, granite) These materials are used for: ▪ Building construction ▪ Manufacturing ▪ Energy production ▪ Transportation construction ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE INDUSTRIES Mining supports several industries, including: ▪ Construction industry ▪ Manufacturing industry ▪ Energy industry ▪ Transportation industry ▪ Metal and mineral processing industry ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH EFFECTS OF MINING ▪ Air pollution (dust, drilling emissions) ▪ Water pollution (acid mine drainage, toxic tailings) ▪ Noise pollution ▪ Loss of wildlife habitat ▪ Destruction of vegetation and ecosystems ▪ Ground subsidence (cracked roads, tilted buildings) ▪ Health risks to miners (respiratory and skin diseases) MINING LAWS • Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (Republic Act No. 7942) o Enacted in 1995 o Regulates the exploration, development, utilization, and conservation of mineral resources o Allows participation of both Filipino and foreign companies (through agreements) o Requires Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) o Promotes responsible and sustainable mining • National Integrated Protected Areas System ACT o Protects environmentally critical areas o Restricts mining in protected zones • Republic Act No. 9275 o Prevents water pollution from mining operations SDG12: RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PROTECTION Aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns by 2030. Key targets include halving per capita global food waste, environmentally sound management of chemicals/waste, reducing waste generation through recycling and reuse, and promoting sustainable business practices. Key Targets ✓ Sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources ✓ Halve global food waste ✓ Environmentally sound management of chemicals and waste ✓ Reduce waste generation (prevention, recycling, reuse) ✓ Corporate sustainable practices and reporting ✓ Sustainable public procurement ✓ Awareness for sustainable lifestyles AIR POLLUTION • • • Republic Act No. 7076 o Known as the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act of 1991 o Governs small-scale mining operations o Establishes “Minahang Bayan” areas Republic Act No. 8371 o Protects the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities o Requires Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) before mining in ancestral lands Air pollution is the presence of harmful substances in the air negatively affects living organisms and the environment. Types of Air Pollutants 1. By Origin: Primary pollutants are emitted directly (e.g., CO, SOx), while secondary pollutants form in the air through reactions (e.g., O₃, smog, acid rain). 2. By State of Matter: Pollutants exist as solids (dust, smoke), liquids (fog), or gases (CO, NOx, CFCs). ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Primary Pollutants Carbon Monoxide (CO) Oxides of Sulfur (Sox) Oxides of Nitrogen (Nox) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) Ozone (O3) Smog Acid Rain Ozone Layer Depletion • • • The ozone layer, a protective layer in the stratosphere made of O₃, shields the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Scientists first observed significant depletion over Antarctica in the 1980s, famously confirmed by satellite data showing the “ozone hole”, which prompted international concern and agreements like the Montreal Protocol (1989). Ozone depletion is mainly caused by humanmade chemicals called ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other industrial compounds. These substances release chlorine and bromine atoms in the stratosphere, which break down ozone molecules. Effects of Air Pollution • • • Sources of Noise Pollution Secondary Pollutants Direct impact on humans: health issues, deaths, respiratory problems. Environmental impact: reduced visibility, damage to historic monuments, economic losses. Global consequences: affects evolution and ecosystem balance. Stationary sources ▪ Industrial noise: from factories, power generation, product fabrication, and furnaces. ▪ Construction noise: from equipment like excavators, cranes, compressors, and vibrators. ▪ Other sources: sirens, barking dogs, ambulances, and emergency vehicles. Mobile Sources ▪ Road traffic: main contributor; noise varies by vehicle type and traffic density (e.g., motorcycles produce 90–105 dB). ▪ Rail traffic: less severe; noise comes from engines, wheels, and horns. ▪ Air traffic: intermittent but loudest during takeoff and landing; supersonic aircraft generate high-intensity noise. Effects of Noise Pollution • • • LIGHT POLLUTION • NOISE POLLUTION • • Noise is an unwanted or mixed sound that humans cannot control, unlike normal sound, which is clear and audible. The human ear can safely perceive sounds up to 85 decibels, beyond which it may cause damage. Hearing damage: starts at ~85 dB, pain at 120 decibels. Health issues: sleep disturbances, stress, high blood pressure, heart disease, digestive problems. Behavioral effects: annoyance, aggression, impaired nervous system function, and reduced physical performance. Light pollution is the excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive artificial light that interferes with natural darkness, affects ecosystems, and disrupts human activities. Causes of Light Pollution • • • Overuse of outdoor lighting (streetlights, billboards, stadiums). Poorly designed or misdirected lamps that scatter light upward. Excessive brightness in urban areas. ES4 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Effects of Light Pollution • • • • Human health: disrupts circadian rhythms, sleep disorders, and eye strain. Environment: affects nocturnal animals, bird migration, and plant growth. Astronomy: reduces visibility of stars and interferes with astronomical observations. Energy waste: unnecessary lighting increases electricity consumption and carbon footprint. LAWS PHILIPPINE CLEAN AIR ACT OF 1999 (REPUBLIC ACT 8749) ✓ is the main law regulating air quality in the country. It sets national air quality standards, regulates vehicle and industrial emissions, prohibits open burning of waste, and requires emission testing for vehicles. It also created Air Quality Management Areas and assigned the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to monitor and enforce the law. ✓ includes provisions that regulate noise as part of environmental pollution control. POLLUTION CONTROL LAW (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 984) ✓ regulates pollution from industrial establishments and factories. It established mechanisms for pollution control permits, inspections, and penalties for businesses that release pollutants into the environment. EXECUTIVE ORDER 446 (PHASE-OUT OF LEADED GASOLINE) ✓ This order mandated the gradual removal of lead from gasoline in the Philippines. Lead is highly toxic and harmful to human health, especially for children. The policy helped reduce lead emissions from vehicles. LOCAL GOVERNMENT ORDINANCES ✓ Cities and municipalities set noise limits and curfews for loud activities (e.g., videoke or construction at night).