There are any number of causes and any number of “villains” to blame. Environmental pollution and degradation is a common culprit. Overhunting is another. Simple Darwinism is yet another. Whatever the cause, however, the result is the same. A population of animals vanishes forever with no possibility of being encountered again.

That is–in most cases.

The story of the Tasmanian Tiger is all too typical in the world of endangered species studies and other issues related to environmental pollution and degradation. Yet the Tasmanian Tiger’s story is filled with unconventional flourishes. For example, the Tasmanian Tiger isn’t a true tiger at all, but a type of hybrid wolf/marsupial, named for the striped pattern on its hindquarters. At one time there were thousands of Tasmanian Tigers wandering the outback of Australia, competing with other animals for food, water, and breeding opportunities. Some 2,000 years ago, the Tasmanian Tiger lost this competition, and the only remaining members of the species were confined to Tasmania proper.

In the 1930s, the Tasmanian Tiger lost the competition for food and livelihood yet again–this time to the most dangerous opponent of all. Overhunting and the environmental pollution and degradation that comes hand in hand with human inhabitants moving into a formerly wild region led to the extinction of the Tasmanian Tiger for good. The last confirmed member of the species died in captivity in 1936. This was a double blow to zoology, since the Tasmanian Tiger wasn’t simply a species unto itself, but also the last surviving member of the mysterious genus Thylacinus, the marsupial wolves. The opportunity to study the convergent evolution of the genus was forever lost with the Tiger, a victim of environmental pollution and degradation.

But, as we said, the story of the Tasmanian Tiger is not without its unique flourishes–such as the flash of stripes seen moving through the field of vision of a park ranger in 1995, or the herd of six or seven Thylacines spotted raiding a villager’s livestock in 1997.

Could the verdict on this victim of environmental pollution and degradation have been premature? The Australian government has since 1995 been running an investigation into the wilds of Tasmania, seeking answers. The story of environmental pollution and degradation has been, throughout human history, a tragic one–the mysterious “resurrection” of the Tasmanian Tiger could be–in at least one story–a happy ending.

The changing trends in the field of industry and commercial activity have reflected themselves quite clearly in the way new and supportive industries have come up along with. Such a rapid pace of economic growth has also brought along with it a series of fallouts and negative impacts, leading to the need of newer initiatives such as creating awareness about environmental safety and the practices required to observe the same.

In such a scenario, it has become extremely important to pursue concrete environmental education programs in all types of organizations such as schools, colleges and production houses of all categories.

The Basics

As a process, the goals of environmental education centre on the twin objective of improving the surrounding environment as well as protecting the environment from the onslaught of negative impacts which are generally brought on by such economic progress.

The key goals of environmental education are to develop a world population that is aware of, and concerned about, the environment and its related problems. In addition, the goal is to develop a cluster of citizens who have the knowledge, skills, attitudes, motivation and commitment to work individually and collectively towards solutions of current problems and the prevention of new ones.

The most critical goal of environmental education is to ensure that the necessary information, guidelines and training is imparted to children and adolescents regarding the ill practices that might harm the environment in the longer run. In addition, another important goal of environmental education is to educate the industrial production houses about the safer practices that need to be followed in order to ensure that minimum damage occurs to their surroundings and environment.

It is an agreed fact the problem of environmental hazards has reached massive proportions in today’s times. In such circumstances, it is almost impossible for a handful officials and authorities to handle the situation effectively. It is here that the goal of environmental education to create adequate awareness amongst various user groups becomes all the more critical. The aim is to educate those who are involved at the helm of affairs at locations which are the main causes of environmental hazards. If an appropriate measure of environmental education is imparted, then the goal of environmental education to minimize harm to the environment can be achieved effectively.

In addition, there are various environmental education projects that are engaged in different sets of objectives to be accomplished. However in order to meet desired goals of environmental education, these projects should be based on sound science and should enhance critical-thinking, and problem-solving techniques of the group in question.

By the onset of the 21st century, there were no parts of the Earth free from some type of chemical pollution. Furthermore, the threat posed by atmospheric pollution and climate change threatens to degrade and destroy habitats for creatures from polar bears to plankton.

Were that not enough, these threats tend to multiply. Amphibians are one example: pesticide poisoning of the water weakened their natural immunity to fungus that has already wiped out several species and critically endangered many others.

How Many Kinds Could There Be?

Pollution does come in many forms and some may even sound newfound, but all are important to take notice of. A few examples may be:

Litter - Litter can be found on the side of the road, in an old lot and in waterways, as well. Litter may start with the simple carelessness of a person throwing out that one soda can or cigarette butt, however those “simple” acts cause toxins to be emitted into the air, groundwater, and soil.
Water Pollution We may stop and think of the seriousness of water pollution when we hear of a major spill, but our everyday actions may be contributing to this pollution issue. Poor septic tanks and phosphate-induced cleaning agents are contributors too.
Air Pollution Everyone contributes to air pollution; on some levels it is hard not to because every action has a reaction and that reaction releases chemicals. Due to major fines and bad press, some companies have gotten better at monitoring their output. Car manufacturers include emission systems, but we use our cars at record-breaking levels. It comes down to the balance of good air produced by Mother Nature to bad air produced by human usage.
Light Pollution - Who would have ever thought that pollution comes in the form of light? But extended exposure brings a breakdown of melatonin in the body and the energy it takes to produce that light wastes precious energy.

Are We A Lost Cause?

One may think that we have done so much damage that there is no turning back or maybe it is to be another person’s problem. Well, we are all in it together and since together we are a part of creating the problem then together we can be a part of the solution. A few suggestions could be:
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - Reduce the amount of waste your household makes by buying smartly. Reuse items purchased for one reason into something else. Recycle all the plastic, glass, paper, and other items instead of throwing them away.
Caustic Chemicals - Look in your cabinets and see the plethora of everyday chemicals and find environmentally friendly alternatives.
Hoof It - Cutting down the use of your automobile would do at least two things: cut down on emissions released and give you exercise.

Pollution is not a new problem, pollution is not the other person’s responsibility, pollution does affect you and those around you, and pollution can be controlled. Are you going to be a part of the solution?

Offering a wide range of steps to control air pollution, many AAPCD agencies are located within each individual state, with that state under the umbrella of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) board in its Research & Development division–Risk Management Research area. Many, if not most, states may require an indirect source permit for new and modified sources, with municipalities being exempt from the fee if they cannot recover the fee costs from charging user fees who use the servicewith indirect sources being defined as highway projects, shopping malls, commercial and industrial parks, and recreational facilitiesall effecting how steps to control air pollution are developed.

This article will discuss the umbrella under the EPA in regarding steps to control air pollution, which uses a wide number of methods regarding the release of pollutants into the environment. These steps involve emissions from industries and motor vehicles to emergency responses and clean-up activities, with the adoptions of ecologically sound procedures. Steps to control air pollution are located at the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Division (APPCD) within the National Risk Management Research Laboratory division. Their job is to conduct all areas of pollutant research with further developments and demonstrations in air pollution prevention/control technologies. The control technologies utilized are key industries, electric power plants, incinerators, indoor environments, and sources of greenhouse gases used.

Because of all the control technologies used in developing steps to control air pollution, the APPCD works closely with many organizationsindustries, trade organizations, and professional groups. Concentrating their efforts to six program areas, their research is done through a wide variety of mechanisms.

Air Toxics
Fine Particles
Indoor Air Quality
Ozone
Global Climate Change

To make things even more complicated yet more organized for developing steps to control air pollution are six branches within the APCD: the ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS STAFF branch is responsible for the management of APPCD’s financial resources, in addition to controlling and administrating APPCD’s execution of financial resources for research programs; the AIR POLLUTION TECHNOLOGY branch conducts fundamental and applied combustion research since the beginning of the EPA, instrumental in the development and application of flue gas desulfurization systems in utility power plants; the ATMOSPHERIC PROTECTION branch’s mission is to perform risk management research that will “make a difference within Earth’s environment and its inhabitants”, with a multiple of emphasesclimate change, animal feed lots, biogenics, mobile sources, energy related sustainability, modeling, and coal combustion residues; the INDOOR ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT branch is the basis for developing better understandings between indoor air quality and emissions sources, heating, ventilating, HVAC systems, and air cleaning devices; and the ATMOSPHERIC PROTECTION branch which is part of the Technical Service Branch under the EPA’s APPCD division to coordinate, manage and provide air pollution control technologies:

Information is power and those who have a hold over the valuable relevant information and the expertise on how to impart it to the right audiences have an immensely important tool in their hands.

The above holds especially true for the innovative modern-day educational concepts that are aimed at making an individual adept in the topics of national and international importance, even imparting eligibility to take up professional careers in context of the same.

The Correlation

As an ideological instance of the same, the correlation between media and its role in imparting environmental education to its audiences stands as a testimony to how powerful can the impact of information be.

To begin with, media and its various channels are first important in their role of spreading awareness and information on the various aspects of environmental education. Having a strong readership and viewership, the various channels of media are the perfect medium to spread the message of environmental education. The role of media in environmental education can be well gauged from the fact that almost all of the major business houses, political groups and social organizations use special promotional clips and programmes to promote the message of environmental education through this medium. Whether it is print media, electronic mode or the web, messages and educational documentaries regarding environmental education abound on each of the mediums, clearly laying out the role of media in environmental education for the onlooker.

Moving on, another most important role of media in environmental education is essayed in its importance in bringing the defaulters of the matter to book and also highlighting the ill-practices that might be carried out by such individuals or organizations. By giving adequate publicity to the defaulters’ actions and the steps taken against them or penalties charged therein, the authorities can manage to set a good example for others who might default at some other time.

The role of media in environmental education is also reflected in its ability to spread awareness regarding the government’s rules, regulations and any direction regarding the matter. The public in general remains quite unaware of any new legislation or order declared by the government unless it is broadcast well on the various popular channels of media which are watched by millions across the globe.

Similarly, the role of media in environmental education is also extremely helpful for an ordinary citizen who can simply use this medium to air his/her grievance regarding the matter to even share important tips or guidelines for environmental protection through the various channels of media.

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What Does It All Mean?

Marine pollution is described as the harmful effect that is caused by the entry of toxic chemicals or particles, into the ocean. However, it does not stop there because many of these particles stick to tiny particles that are eaten by plankton animals, which are filter feeders, and it concentrates up the food chain to other fish and mammals. Most of the animal feed that is on the market contains high levels of fish meal or fish oil. The toxins are still within those products, thus contaminating animals on the land and the products that they make. Humans consume products like meat, milk, butter, and eggs which many have been contaminated.

Who Is To Blame?

While it would be easier to point the finger at one source of marine pollution, the answer is not that simple. In fact, we are all to blame for this ecological evil. Some of these factors include:

Oil Spills Illegal dumping, accidents, and faulty equipment have been the cause of numerous catastrophes.
Toxic Materials Metals and slowly degrading chemicals are exposed to waterways every day. Things like household chemicals, industrial products, animal wastes, and automotive products are lumped into this category.
Trash When plastics and other products that are not biodegradable end up in the oceans, animals get tangled up in them or they may mistake them for food and die.
Mining Coastal mining sites and other erosion makers threaten our waterfronts.
Raw Sewage Many areas have been fined for illegally dumping raw sewage into the ocean. This sewage contains a battery of toxins that do irreversible damage to the animal and plant life that makes the ocean their home.

What Can Be Done?

Just like there is not just one reason for marine pollution, there is more then one answer. A few creative options include:

Government Many governments have gotten stricter about regulating and fining for industrial waste dumping. However, the world is a big place and all governments need to consider this a priority.
In the home There are many things that we all can do to help with this issue. Finding alternative cleaning products that do not contain phosphates and other toxins will eliminate the waste into the ground waters which end up in the ocean. Also, recycling plastics so they do not get dumped and cause harm to marine animal life.
Frugal fuel The need for less fossil fuels will lessen the need to transport on our oceans which will lessen the likelihood of accidents.

Marine pollution is serious business and it is time that we all get with the program and do our part to help in fight against it. Creative thinking and getting back to the basics may help for a cleaner marine future.

The answer: by recognizing a new kind of environmental pollution: pollution of the mind.

Pollution of the mind isn’t just what happens when you watch too much TV or read too many comic books at a vulnerable age. Rather, pollution of the mind is a concept discovered by researchers working with the effects of advertising on the public consciousness. The idea is that by placing offensive billboards in unavoidably conspicuous locations within a city or by filling the air with exhortations to buy new products, advertisers are effectively polluting the “mental space” of people in large urban areas.

Environmental pollution–pollution of whatever form–essentially means any damaging product, industrial or otherwise, that makes the world less safe and less pleasant to be in. We can argue that both of these qualities are present in pollution of the mind. Advertising is certainly an industrial product, for the most part, and it certainly makes the world less pleasant–unless you’re the type who finds it pleasant to be manipulated by major corporations into spending money you don’t have on products you don’t even enjoy, of course. And advertising can also make the world demonstrably less safe by stunting people’s critical thinking and diminishing the capacity for understanding and for empathy. Manipulating the population into buying products and manipulating the population into, say, starting, supporting, and fighting an endless land war are not as different, in the end, as one might assume.

Because of the problems inherent in this new form of environmental pollution–pollution of the mind–several grass-roots groups are starting to advocate taxing the use of the public’s “mental space”, much as corporations are taxed (at least in theory) for misusing the public’s air and water. This may be a double-edged sword, however, as some critics–notably Joseph Hale, a commentator from the environmental battlegrounds of Texas–have pointed out. To advocate the taxation of “mental space” is to invite the government into our very minds–the one place that, historically, the government has been kept out of.

Whatever the solution, however, it’s clear that for this newest form of environmental pollution–pollution of the mind–some solution is necessary. Once we can think clearly, we can begin working diligently on finding a solution to everything else.

In today’s era of industrialization and rapid economic growth, it is the subjects as environmental education which are gaining immense popularity, owing to the rising need to pay heed to the fallouts of the increased commercial activity.

Key Aspects

To begin with, the basic subject of environmental education refers to the organized efforts carried out to teach about the way in which natural environment functions. A clear relevance to this is the study of how human beings can conduct their own behavior and ecosystems in line of the same.

By concept and usage, there are two broader applications of the term environmental education in everyday life. The first and most common usage refers to the specific curriculum of environmental education as laid down in the education line.

The second reference is made to the term most often to include all efforts to educate the public and other audiences which also comprise of print materials, websites and various other media campaigns.

However, traditionally, environmental education has always been considered as an additional or elective subject in the conventional K-12 curriculum. As far as the elementary school level is concerned, environmental education can takes the form of science enrichment curriculum, natural history field trips, community service projects, along with the basic participation in outdoor science activities.

On the other hand, in secondary schools, environmental education is rather taken as a focused subject within the sciences and also as a part of the student interest groups or clubs. Meanwhile, at the undergraduate and graduate level, environmental education is considered its own field within education, environmental studies, environmental science and policy, ecology or human and cultural ecology programs.

The latest change in trend in the field of environmental education makes room for the basic approach of activism and ideology to move to an approach that allows students to make informed decisions and also take action based on experience as well as other concrete information.

In all, the entire broad spectrum of the move to incorporate environmental education in the academic unit has achieved quite a pace, especially after the 1960s when the industrial world came to notice the impact the overall development was causing. The same has been also well supported by summits, conferences and meetings held at various levels across the world on the subject to create awareness and develop various action plans.
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In today’s world of massive competition and rising opportunities, it is always an advantage to have a specialized educational qualification or training in one’s profile. With such rapid advancement of industry and business, the numbers of employment opportunities have spiraled up and so has the demand for such professionals.

As the awareness of one’s environment increases, the consciousness on the part of individual business houses is also on a rise. In such a scenario, those keen to take up careers in one of the many environmental education specialist jobs have plenty of options awaiting them.

Criteria and Options

Whether it is an educational institution, a commercial business house or a social organization, an individual working in one of the many environmental education specialist jobs will be required to perform a vast range of function in duties in context with the organization’s specific goals towards environmental education.

To begin with, such an individual shall be required to develop a broader framework outlining the complete education strategy of the organization. Such an individual should be aware of the special needs of the organization are as far as the needs for environmental education are concerned.

If working in a school, one of the most important probable duties for those working in the environmental education specialist jobs shall be to provide instruction for programs in environmental science and cultural history to elementary school students. This shall also be accompanied by the need to facilitate ground initiatives, provide leadership for GPS-based, outdoor science explorations and participation in the logistical and preparatory duties for both, the day as well as residential outdoor education programs.

There are various other related functions that shall be needed to be performed by those working on the environmental education specialist jobs, especially in schools. These could further include participation in ongoing, extensive training programs that are meant to prepare staff in content knowledge, program delivery and safety procedures. Another major role is to enhance the mental, physical and social development of students participating in the program by being a positive role model, along with being a creative and energetic leader.

For a particular individual to be eligible for such environmental education specialist jobs, he also needs to possess a set of important educational qualifications. To begin with, is important to have a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Education, Parks and Recreation, Biological and Earth Sciences or the other related fields. Above all, the concerned individuals must possess an interest for and commitment to the environment, a liking for teaching and strong traits of leadership and communication skills, apart from having a keen sense of adventure.

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