12th Grade Food-energy-water Nexus Passages

Explore the transformation of urbanization and its substantial impacts on biodiversity and environmental health, covering key issues such as habitat loss, pollution, and food insecurity. Gain a deeper understanding of sustainability challenges, the importance of sustainable development practices, and the necessity for global collaboration to protect ecosystems for future generations.

Explore the complexities of the phosphorus cycle, highlighting its environmental impact and biological importance within ecosystems. Gain an understanding of phosphorus's role in the structure of DNA and RNA, examine human impacts through fertilizer application, and trace its movement from the earth's crust to plants and animals.

Investigate the environmental challenges posed by water pollution, particularly focusing on algal blooms in the Gulf of Mexico. Understand how nutrient runoff contributes to these issues and explore sustainable management practices. Develop insights into how these methods can mitigate impacts on marine ecosystems, leading to a healthier future.

Investigate the significant risks Category 1 pollutants, such as particulate matter, lead, and mercury, pose to human health and the environment. Gain understanding of the sources and impacts of these pollutants while developing strategies to mitigate their harmful effects through regulatory measures and public awareness initiatives. Enhance skills in analyzing pollution sources, assessing health and environmental impacts, and formulating effective mitigation strategies.

Investigate the vital properties of water that support life, including cohesion, adhesion, temperature regulation, and its versatility as a universal solvent. Understand how these properties influence biological processes and apply this knowledge to analyze water behavior in various environmental conditions.

Examine the core processes of the water cycle, detailing the movement of water through stages like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. Understand the effects of climate change and human activities on water distribution and quality, equipping learners with the knowledge to apply these concepts in environmental science contexts.

Explore the complexities of the water cycle and its key processes, such as evaporation and infiltration. Examine how climate change impacts these processes, influencing water distribution globally. Understand the ways in which human activities affect water quality. Gain comprehensive insights into climate effects on water systems, deepening environmental science knowledge.

Focuses on understanding current environmental issues in North Carolina, encouraging critical examination of information sources and comprehension of scientific implications. Develops skills in evaluating opposing viewpoints, understanding environmental science, and exploring strategies for local and collective action.

Investigate the environmental effects of urbanization, focusing on urban sprawl, pollution, and urban run-off challenges. Understand the impact of urban areas on green spaces and resources, and gain insights into sustainable urban planning solutions.

Explore the fundamentals of watersheds, their importance in environmental science, and various water usage concepts. Develop an understanding of watershed definitions, water utilization scenarios, and geographical linkages, enhancing comprehension of environmental systems and resource management.

Investigate the evolution and global significance of Earth Day, with a focus on its historical roots and influence on environmental policy. Gain insights into the beginnings of environmental awareness and explore ongoing global efforts aimed at sustainability and environmental protection.

Explore key waste management strategies focusing on recycling, landfilling, composting, and incinerating. Understand the environmental impacts and operational processes of each method, and develop skills to evaluate and apply waste management techniques in real-world contexts.

Engage with the exploration of human impact on water resources, emphasizing pollution control and sustainable management practices. Develop an understanding of key strategies to minimize pollution, improve water quality, and promote the sustainable use of water resources.

Explore the diverse applications of plant materials in medicine, energy, clothing, and food, while examining environmental factors that impact crop growth. Gain insights into the interactions between plants and animals to foster an understanding of sustainable agricultural practices and ecological relationships.

Explore the vital roles carbohydrates play in energy storage and utilization within biological systems. Understand how carbohydrates are metabolized into energy, the significance of glycogen storage, and the effects of dietary choices on overall health and metabolic efficiency.

Examine the environmental and health impacts of plastic water bottles, exploring popular alternatives such as stainless steel and glass. Understand the importance of sustainable choices and the role of policy changes in reducing plastic waste.

Analyze the significant milestones and impacts of Earth Day from its inception in 1970 to its evolution as a global event addressing critical issues like climate change. Understand shifts in environmental policy and explore the ongoing relevance of Earth Day in fostering sustainable practices and enhancing public health. Learners will gain insights into environmental advocacy and the role of Earth Day in promoting awareness and action. The focus will be on understanding historical developments, policy changes, and modern challenges in environmental protection.

Analyze the contrasting food cultures and fast food dynamics of the U.S. and South Korea, examining dietary habits and school meal programs. Gain insights into the broader implications of food culture on health and the environment. Compare how each country is adapting to global dietary trends, enhancing understanding of the cultural and nutritional landscape.

Investigate the complexities of the First Amendment and its interaction with media portrayals throughout U.S. history, concentrating on constitutional principles and societal effects. Gain an understanding of the First Amendment's protections and the media's influence on public opinion, developing analytical skills to evaluate constitutional rights and media narratives.

Explore the scientific, ethical, and societal dimensions of genetically modified organisms, focusing on Bt Corn and Golden Rice as solutions to global agricultural and nutritional challenges. Gain an understanding of technological advancements, evaluate the benefits and controversies of GMOs, and develop critical thinking skills related to future GMO innovations.