Middle schools Essay

There are some types of conditioning that are employed in middle schools and high school settings. Take for example when the teachers enter the classroom, students are â€Å"conditioned† to react in certain ways. Thus, this depends on what they are used to and how teachers will treat such type of behaviors. The initial reaction of the students is referred to as the ‘baseline behavior’ (Honolulu Zoo Organization, 2009). Before any type of conditioning is applied, this behavior should be observed and recorded. In a classical conditioning, there is a large dependence on the association of a stimulus to a response and has involuntary reactions (Comparison of Classical and Operant Conditioning, 2009). In a classroom setting, classical conditioning can also be applied. Say, students love their music class and that they love to sing. Thus, before each music class, the teacher would play a song. Thus, when the students hear the music, they may start to sing or hum to the tune of the music. This increases their awareness that music class will be next. Then, shaping is applied where a series of actions are equated to a series of reactions. This defines the difference between the baseline and terminal behavior. For an operant conditioning, the most notable feature is the ‘reinforcement’ and that the reactions are voluntary (Comparison of Classical and Operant Conditioning, 2009). Say when one teacher enters the classroom, the students to stand up and greet by applause. This may be construed by the teacher as the good behavior and, thus, the teacher may give a reward for each student when the students stand and applaud. Say, the reward is a candy bar, which now serves as the positive reinforcement. Consequently, without the â€Å"stand and applaud response,† the candy bar is withheld and students are forced to stand, thus a negative reinforcement. When this is done in an every â€Å"stand and applaud reaction† response basis, thus, continuous reinforcement is applied. Within the shaping, reinforcements may vary. The reinforcement may be done in random, meaning candy bar is not given every time the stand and applaud reaction is done by student, which is called variable reinforcement. If in case the teacher gives more candy bars for a louder applause, then this is now referred to as the selective reinforcement with the aim of increasing performance. Another schedule of reinforcement is the bonus wherein the students may receive more candy bars than the usual as a surprise. The terminal behavior is the behavior after the ‘shaping’ is applied. In this example, the students’ action of standing and applauding every time the same teacher enters the classroom is the terminal behavior after the shaping including the reinforcement. Negative reinforcement is if students fail to stand and applaud or if they just sit instead of stand, the candy bar is then withheld, thus, the students will go back to the stand and applaud response for the candy bar. Negative reinforcement then pushes that the students do something for their benefit. Punishment, on the other hand, is when the students stand and applaud and then they are all sent to the principal’s office, which weakens the ‘enthusiasm’ for stand and applause behavior. Then, if the candy bar is removed after the ‘stand and applaud reaction’, thus, the reaction is no longer encouraged and this is then called the extinction. Reward is a very powerful tool for students and the proper use of it should be understood before it is utilized by the members of the academe. In the same manner, rewards can make or break students’ habits and behavior. This could be dangerous since there is a tendency of students lacking the initiative to work without the reward. This may keep students from doing their best since there is no visible gain for better performance in school. On the other hand, this may also be very helpful in stirring movements for students towards positive actions and better performance. This may be an extra boost on their determination to achieve more in their activities. Reference: Comparison of Classical and Operant Conditioning. (2009). The McGraw-Hill Companies. Retrieved March 26, 2009 from http://www. dushkin. com/connectext/psy/ch06/compare. mhtml Honolulu Zoo Organization. (2009). Operant Conditioning Terms. Retrieved March 26, 2009 from http://www. honoluluzoo. org/enrichment_operant_cond_terms. htm

Dressing for Success

Robert Johnson Eng. 099 Fran Bradshaw Feb. 5, 2010 Dressing for Success Have you ever thought that dressing for success could bring about success to your everyday life? A lot of people these days as far as young men and women usually dress in a very urban style dealing with clothes that may be nice but are often worn incorrectly. For example somebody could have on a nice pair of Levi jeans but wear them to where they sag all the way off of their butt which is improper and just doesn’t look good.People also try to wear clothes that tend to be too big yet they still wear it which is funny to me, but not funny in the eyes of a business man or somebody important who may be watching. You never know who could be watching that’s why I feel young men and women should show themselves to be presentable, as well as professional, because first impressions are everything in society. How you come off to people and show yourself matters so much in society. As your first impression you should want to come off as a well dressed individual.Before people even meet you if they see that you’re well dressed that’s like a bonus for you because they’ll appreciate you more. People will know that you carry yourself in a professional manner, and won’t treat you as just who doesn’t matter, but a man or women of importance. Also dressing nicely shows that you have a good respect for yourself and if people see that just off of how you dress they will have way more respect for you. This can also help in any business venture you take, because what boss doesn’t like to see a potential or future employee who shows himself to look good and be professional.Which leads me to why looking professional is also a benefit of dressing well. As young men and women we strive to seek a well paying job whether in school or out of school. With well paying jobs comes an interview which looking professional is one of the keys to being viewed amongst the r est of the people who may be going for the same job you are. Not even in just a job setting, but in school as well with any teacher treating you better just for the simple fact that you come to class looking ready to learn.Also if you ever thought while you were in school that you may have wanted to pledge a fraternity or sorority, then looking professional might get you looked at as a potential choice for either one. Along with dressing for success being presentable is key. You must show that you’re not the same as everybody else but different in your own way. Everybody these days can put on a suit, but it takes the person inside the suit to really present there selves in a unique way from everybody else.You should present yourself to where it really shows who you are as an individual. Don’t set yourself up for failure and dress to where you present yourself as someone who is just like everybody else. In conclusion dressing for success deals with three things looking professional, being presentable, and your first impression. Even then it’s on you to strive to stand out amongst other people as person who dresses not simply to look good but for respect and admiration. That in its self is worth dressing for success every day.

Critically assess Wildavksy's theory of the two presidencies (one Essay

Critically assess Wildavksy's theory of the two presidencies (one foreign and one domestic) with reference to at least two spe - Essay Example However, in their domestic and foreign policies, they differed tremendously in goals, strategies, and focuses. Each president faced a different world: President Kennedy encountered a nation in the 1960s in which the United States had to defend itself against the threat of nuclear annihilation and the plague of Communism whereas President Obama faced a society in 2009 ravaged with its worst economic crisis and financial uncertainty in its history. In selecting the inaugural speeches of these two prominent presidents, this paper will analyze Wildavsky’s dual presidency theory, looking both at their domestic and foreign policies. Analysis of the Presidency of John F. Kennedy (1961) The 1960s ushered in an era in American history that would greatly challenge its citizens, who would question on every level the very foundations of the United States. It was a nation that had safeguarded its preeminent position since World War II as the greatest country in the world, which rivaled in power and influence the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (U.S.S.R). The nation gladly embraced, with open arms and excited anticipation, the election of the energetic and charismatic Catholic senator as their new president, who made them feel young and vibrant and embodied the best hopes of Americans to maintain their national and international preeminence. President Kennedy sought for the United States to assume its global mission of being the leader of the free world and human rights (Whitehouse 2011). In his inaugural speech (See Appendix I) of 1961, President John F. Kennedy, who became the thirty-fifth president of the United States, articulated the fundamental issues and policies that his administration would address during his presidency. His speech embodied three major themes: 1). conciliatory tone, 2). emphasis on foreign issues/policies, 3). patriotic/nationalistic ideals. Analysis of the Inaugural Speech of President John F. Kennedy (1961) The first chief theme of the speech of President Kennedy reflected his conciliatory tone. Employing very effective rhetorical language, he uses conciliatory verbs, such as â€Å"pledge† (which he used over and over again) in his masterpiece. He cites the verb â€Å"pledge† eight times throughout his speech. What message is he trying to convey to his audience by constantly using the verb â€Å"pledge†? â€Å"Pledge† meant to commit strongly to a cause, place, ideal, nation, person, organization, etc. As a promise, vow, or oath, the verb, â€Å"pledge,† represented a word loaded with connotative and denotative meanings. Even the American anthem used the word â€Å"pledge† in its opening sentence, i.e. â€Å"we pledge allegiance to †¦Ã¢â‚¬  President Kennedy employs this rhetorical device to evoke- among his fellow Americans- the sentiments of nationalism and patriotism to the nation. Moreover, by expressing himself with the word â€Å"pledge,† he also shows his conciliatory tone in his speech. What is he pledging to his people? He pledges to maintain a free nation and world. He also employs other mild and conciliatory verbs throughout his speech, for instance, â€Å"ask,† â€Å"explore,† â€Å"begin,† â€Å"offer,† â€Å"formulate,† â€Å"seek,† â€Å"unite,† â€Å"join,† etc. (Kennedy, 1961, pp. 1-3). Why did President Kennedy adopt this conciliatory rhetorical devices

Healthy Eating in a Technologically Advanced World Research Paper - 4

Healthy Eating in a Technologically Advanced World - Research Paper Example Michael Polland, a protagonist to this theory, presents a series of facts to support this notion. According to Polland, nutrition ideologies are as a result of two basic assumptions. The first assumption is that the key to understanding food is based on the nutrient. Over the years, scientists have conducted a series of research in order to identify the types of nutritious foods that people should consume. However, this assumption is unexamined and ensures that the individuals in the society are dependent on scientists and other experts to inform them about the types of food they should eat. The second assumption supports the notion that the purpose of eating is to maintain and promote bodily health. Polland observes that this assumption is not shared by all cultures and presents a ‘French-paradox’ where the fact that a population that eats all sorts of unhealthy nutrients is in many ways healthier than the American society (Nytimes.com). Polland also states that scienti sts have been unable to discern the qualitative distinctions between foods. Inevitably, selected foods such as beef and chicken became mere delivery systems for varying quantities of fats, proteins and other nutrients (Nytimes.com). Nutrition ideologies benefit manufacturers and not consumers. Since the 1982 National Academy report based on nutrition, the food industry set about re-engineering a plethora of food products so that they contain more nutrients as per the recommendation of the government and the scientific community. Contrarily, the typical real food is unable to compete under the rules of nutritionism.  Ã‚  

Child-Centered Curriculum Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Child-Centered Curriculum - Assignment Example Thus, he uses four instincts to determine the character of the child. These are social, constructive, expressive, and artistic. Moreover, he accentuates that in every instinct, there's a corresponding curriculum that best suits the child. At first sight, John Dewey's child-centered curriculum may looked biased. However, I see it more effective rather than the philosophy proposed by disciplinarists who are main skeptics of John Dewey's belief. I discern that giving importance to a child's' decision help them restrain unnecessary actions and make them more responsible in their own lives. It not only set a perception where they are trusted but also divulge things they are capable of doing. Students, in able to be more effective should know what they really want. This will help them decide which field to pursue. Here, they are more assured to keep on track because they go in the path that interests them. As a shift manager, I seldom put my team under pressure. I motivate them through engaging them with healthy challenges, achievements and fair recognitions. As aforementioned above, I am sensitive to my team's' feelings rather than the goal. If truth be told, my management style varies towards different people just like curriculum towards students. In my job, I tend to handle different people. Same with John Dewey's treatment to students, I prefer giving my team the right to discover their individuality beyond rules and regulations.

Define the Origins of the Aqualung in Relation to Swim Diving Essay

Define the Origins of the Aqualung in Relation to Swim Diving - Essay Example The open air prototype expelled all exhaled air into the waters. The open air system is commonly used for the recreational diving. The Scuba divers suffers from the risks for decompression problems (divers using surface-supplied compressed air) should they ascend without adequate decompression. However, a mixture of Helium-Oxygen compressed air can help Scuba divers descend deeper as compared to compressed air. The history of scuba diving dates back centuries. Many individuals have been diving underwater throughout the ages probably for a period long as they have been swimming. However, the diving may not have been in the exact form of scuba diving but ushered in the inquiry for dive and remained breathing underwater. In ancient times, such mechanisms as hollow reeds, as well as inflated airbags but had a lot of shortcomings. They had limitations based on depth and the duration the swimmer could remain underwater breathing. Scuba diving has undergone a number of tremendous expansions till the turn of the century where the number of new divers is gradually stabilizing. By 2012, the number of new divers certified was approximately one million. The Scuba diving remains a fledgling and vibrant sport as portrayed by the ever rising evolution of the dive equipment as its associated practices. Over the recent years, the application of dive computers has been standardized effectively integrated into many certification agencies in their training curriculum. The incorporation of the wireless of air consumption into the algorithm of dive computers remains the most fundamental innovation. Accordingly, the incorporation of wireless integration into the diving sport has culminated into a safer diving. The chronology of the scuba diving is quite fantastic. The various civilizations throughout the years have indulged in breath-hold diving, free-diving. The existence of sea items on land and ancient pictures presents the evidence for early

Materials & Manufacturing Process Selection Case Study - 1

Materials & Manufacturing Process Selection - Case Study Example The CES Edupack software is normally used to select the most suitable material for the brake disc. Several factors are considered when choosing a material for brake disc. These include the specific gravity of the material, thermal conductivity, wear resistance and the materials cost per unit volume. This research work focuses on the design of the brake disc and the entire brake assembly, the most commonly used material in the design and the calculations that are involved in the brake system. This research is supposed to sufficiently inform the King Swan Engineering Firm on the brake disc. The Company may, therefore, use the knowledge derived from this report to improve on the current existing brake disc. The brake disc is a metallic wheel in a brake system against which the brake pad rub. As the pad is pushed against the disc, heat is generated. The disc should there have the capacity to withstand the heat due to friction. The function of the disc is to stop the vehicle when it comes into contact with the brake pads. The brake disc is connected to the vehicles tire by means of bolts and nuts. The brake pads are normally pushed against the disc via the brake calipers. The brake discs are commonly made of grey cast irons. The cast iron, however, has some shortcomings such as high specific gravity and high heat conductivity. Application of brake discs is traced back to early 1890’s. The disc was first discovered by a scientist known as Fredrick William. The brake discs have better performance as compared to wheel drums. This is attributed to the fact that brake discs come with ventilation holes through which air circulates to the entire disc. The brake disc is composed of a brak e disc bolted to the axle or hub of the wheel hubs and the housing called calipers. The calipers. The calipers are connected to the axle casting in two parts. Each of the parts has a piston. In between the piston and the disc, there is a friction pad

Climate change debate - anthropogenic or natural Essay

Climate change debate - anthropogenic or natural - Essay Example As every person has its on view, there are people who think that climatic changes in this world are due to man made technologies and industries but on the other hand there is a school of thought that thinks that these climate changes are due to the natural processes and there is no intrusion of the human progress that has evolved the climate changes in this world. The objective of this dissertation is to prove what does drive climate to change it ways, is it the fast paced human progress or is it a natural course that is completing its cycle. Nomenclature H2O: Water; here mostly H2O is referred to water vapor. SO2: Sulfur Dioxide CO2: Carbon Dioxide H2S: Hydrogen Sulfide HCL: Hydrochloric Acid HF: Hydrofluoric Acid CFC : Chloro fluoro Carbons Introduction Climatic changes and how the weather is behaving nowadays do not seem to be an exception for the mankind, and the prime factor which has the guilty tag upon it is â€Å"nature†. When it is discussed that what are the anthropo genic factors which can contribute in climate change?, the first thing which emerges into mind is all this manmade development that has progressed with the advent of industries. If the process of pollution is not stopped it can alone be the reason to end this civilization. In case of natural causes mostly the biggest source is the constant warmth from the sun which is causing climate changes even before human civilization existed. Natural and anthropogenic climatic affects are important because in one way or the other both of them do contribute to the climatic changes our world is facing. But who takes the lion’s share has to be discussed. If the causes of the climatic change are not identified then this world would actually suffer to an indefinable extent. Bill Clinton proposed that â€Å"I worry about the Climate Change; it’s the only thing I believe has the power to fundamentally end the march of civilization as we know it† (Tabor 45). The only duty is not to just identify the cause but also to amend it, especially the factors which are in the human hands need to be eradicated at any cost. It is a common practice among people to mix global warming with climatic changes that taking place. But global warming just indicates the temperature changes, where as climatic change works upon temperature upheavals and other factors, for example alteration in earth’s energy etc (Burroughs 8). This dissertation would be helpful in understanding that how much naturally occurring effects can be a part of climatic consequences and how much is the human hand involved in producing these changes. Those changes can vary from the green house effect to volcanic eruptions, use of aerosols, earth quakes, depletion of ozone layer etc. Needs Statement The problem statement for this dissertation will be: â€Å"A study carried out to analyze the issue of climate change due to natural and anthrop

Estonia Gender Problems Essay Example for Free

Estonia Gender Problems Essay Throughout history, women have constantly struggled for equal rights. However, even after women have gained increased equality in many countries, gender inequality still exists on an international scale. The European country Estonia, in particular, faces a noticeably greater gap between men’s and women’s rights in comparison with its European neighbors. Despite the Estonian Gender Equality Law passed in 2004, sexism and gender stereotypes are still largely prevalent in Estonia’s government and society. The problem of gender inequality has negatively impacted Estonian women in economic, social, and political aspects of life in Estonia. One major result of gender inequality is the limiting of economic opportunities for women. Because of traditional gender stereotypes, Estonian women are believed to be less valuable in the workplace than men. This form of sexism has heavily impacted the ability of women to obtain and maintain employment and salary: â€Å"in the 1990s women’s unemployment exceeded that of men (38.3% of women and 24.7% of men)† (Erickson 278). In addition to the high unemployment rate for women, Estonia’s pay gap (the difference between men and women’s wages for the same job) is currently the highest in Europe: â€Å"women are paid over 30% less than men for the same profession† (Domsch 73). Since Estonian women are economically disadvantaged by unfair employment and salary, many women are forced to become economically dependent on their husbands or fathers. Overall, Estonia’s large pay gap reflects its economic sexism and the detrimental effects of gender ineq uality on women. Gender inequality in Estonia has also led to social prejudice against women. Since Estonia’s incorporation into the Soviet Union, gender roles have been deeply established into Estonian society. These gender roles dictate what women are allowed to do and what small spheres of influence they have on economics, government, and politics. Gender roles have also inevitably led to sexism: â€Å"The relationship between men and women on a societal level represents relationship with unequal power distribution, where men dominate and women are subordinated or under-represented in most spheres of life.† (Morten para. 6). The social dominance of men stems from Estonia’s incorporation into the Soviet Union in 1940. During this period, Estonia’s once Western attitudes and views on gender equality shifted to Soviet-centered beliefs, which emphasized the importance of submissive women who served men. Although the Soviet Union often used feminist propaganda to encourage women to work, women were frequently treated unfairly at home and in society. The gender roles established during the Soviet Union era continue to play a major role in Estonia’s society today. Gender inequality is prevalent in both the household, where men are expected to exert dominance over their wives, and in social gatherings, where women’s opinions are held in lower esteem (Domsch 148). In summary, gender inequality in Estonia has led to social discrimination against women. Another major result of gender inequality is the political prejudice that Estonian women face. After World War II, a period in which Estonia was politically and economically run by women due to a lack of men, the Communist Party reestablished men in the ruling bodies of Estonia. During this period, Estonian women were removed from politics and their political power was undermined. Very recently, some attempts have been made to solve the political gender inequality problem. In 2004, the government passed the Gender Equality Act to ensure that women had equal political power and economic stability (Domsch 127). However, many of the rights guaranteed in the Gender Equality Act were pre-existent in the Constitution of Estonia. In practice, women have yet to see true equality in political or economic aspects. For example, a recent study showed that â€Å"roughly 8% of Estonian government positions are held by women, while only 20% of parliament members are women† (Morten para. 4). The small percentage of women in Estonia’s government directly reflects on the sexism in Estonian politics. Estonia’s male and female populations, though equal in size, are not equally politically represented, as shown by the clearly imbalanced gender ratio in their government. Overall, although small steps have been made toward gender equity, sexism and gender inequality are still widely extant, and have led to comparatively less political empowerment for Estonian women. Although women’s rights have been improved internationally, many countries still face challenges in establishing true gender equality. Estonia currently faces significant problems for women in many major aspects of society. Originating from Estonia’s incorporation into the Soviet Union after World War II, gender stereotypes have negatively affected Estonian women to this day. With one of the largest pay gaps between men and women in Europe, Estonia has a significantly imbalanced gender ratio for employment. Furthermore, sexism has also led to the diminished social and political power of women in Estonian society. Despite the recent improvements that have been made by the Estonian government in the past decade, the economic, social, and political opportunities of Estonian women are still severely limited by gender inequality.

International Trade Essay Example for Free

International Trade Essay 1.0 International Trade International trade is exchange of capital, goods, and services across international borders or territories. In most countries, it represents a significant share of gross domestic product (GDP).Industrialization, advanced transportation, globalization, multinational corporations, and outsourcing are all having a major impact on the international trade system. Increasing international trade is crucial to the continuance of globalization. Without international trade, nations would be limited to the goods and services produced within their own borders. Trade among nations is thus essential for countries to obtain goods and services not available within their own borders either because resources are not indigenous or production technology is lacking. Trade also can serve as an important act of diplomacy between cooperating nations looking to support and be supported by one another or as a weapon of war to punish or harm countries with divergent agendas. 1.1 The reasons why countries trade include; 1.Haves and Have Nots In some cases, trade is essential for a country to obtain a product or resource not available within its sovereign territory. Middle Eastern countries, for example, have vast natural petroleum resources. Much of the world depends on trade with these oil-rich countries for fuel. The need for rare resources held by only a few nations has led to war throughout the course of world history when trade talks have broken down. 2.Keeping the Peace Some nations trade amongst themselves as a means of fostering good relations, not just to obtain imports or sell exports. In one form of ancient trade, some countries or tribes would pay tributes of gold or other goods in order to pass through foreign borders for purposes of further trade or travel. A healthy trade treaty is one of the first signs of positive relations between nations. 3.Specialized trade Some countries trade with other nations for particular goods and services because they either lack the technology to produce the goods themselves or the other countries can do it cheaper. One country may be very good, for example, at producing high quality cabinets and entertainment stands for large screen televisions. Another country may have dialed in to the most efficient means of producing high definition televisions that fit on the stands. It would benefit both countries to trade with one another for their different but complementary goods and services. 4.Trade as a Weapon Trade, or lack thereof, also can be used as a weapon to do harm to competing or belligerent countries. Powerful nations throughout history have used economic sanctions (essentially blocking and prohibiting trade) with other nations in order to punish or force political or behavioral change. Countries also often enter into strong trade agreements with the enemies of their enemies, such as trading weapons or nuclear arms to one nation that may be used against another. The United States has used economic sanctions on numerous occasions to cease trade with nations suspected of supporting terrorism. Economic sanctions can be slow to work or ineffective, however, if enough other nations are not on board with the country trying to dole out the punishment. 5.Unification of Trade Trade also can serve as the great unifier. Neighboring nation-states with shared borders and similar economic goals and endeavors can create common currencies and trade rules and regulations in order to further the agendas of all participants. In Europe in 2002, for example, 12 nations began using a common currency called the Euro, which has become stronger than the U.S. dollar. 1.2 The benefits of International Trade Some of the benefits countries accrue from trading with each other include; I.Export of goods and services is used as a means to finance imports of those products a country can’t produce within its boarders. II.Exports represent an injection of demand into the circular flow of income III.There is an improvement in economic welfare if countries specialize in the products in which they have a comparative advantage and then trade with other nations IV.Trade allows firms to exploit scale economies by operating in larger markets. Economies of scale lead to lower average costs of production that might be passed onto consumers V.International competition stimulates higher efficiency particularly for domestic monopolies. VI.Free trade provides greater choice for consumers and competition helps keep prices down. VII.Imports can help to satisfy excess demand from consumers acting as a safety valve for the economy. A trade deficit during an econo mic boom helps to reduce demand-pull inflation VIII.Trade in ideas stimulates product and process innovations that generates better products 1.3 Disadvantages of international trade Some disadvantages of trade are; I.Dependence may occur of one country on another. II.Smaller and local countries do not get to enjoy the international trade. III.International trade does not reduce the standard of living; it increases it, for all countries involved. IV.Firms that are not familiar with the trade rules and policies of overseas markets, will inevitably run into a wall, and may even encounter fraud.. V.Trade between countries only confer economic advantages when negotiated with countries which are significant trading partners 2.0 Trade Relations between Kenya and China and reasons why the two countries are trading; The Peoples Republic of China established the diplomatic relations with the Republic of Kenya on December 14, 1963. In the initial days of the establishment the relations between the two countries saw a fair development. After 1965, the relation of the two countries was lowered to be at the chargà © daffaires level and towards the beginning of 1970s it gradually returned to normal. In 1978, when President Daniel Arap Moi came in power, the relation of the two countries gained a fast development. With frequent mutual visits at high level the friendly cooperation has witnessed outstanding achievements in many fields. By the end of 2002 when a new government was formed after Mwai Kibaki was elected President, he expressed to hold a great account of the relations with China, willing to further deepen and expand the friendly cooperation between the two countries. 2.1 Volume of trade between China and Kenya Bilateral economy and trade relations and economic and technological cooperation have increased since the establishment of the diplomatic relations, the projects of aid and assistance provided by China to Kenya mainly include: Moi International Sports Center, methane-generating pit, the expansion project of Eldoret hospital, Gambogi-Serem Highway etc. In recent years, the bilateral trade value increased greatly. The Chinese exports to Kenya mainly include: household electric appliance, industrial and agricultural tools, textile goods, commodities for daily use, building materials and drugs and so on. The imported goods from Kenya mainly cover: black tea, coffee and leather-goods, etc. The year of 2002 saw the trade value between China and Kenya reach US$ 186.37 million, of which the Chinese export took up US$ 180.576 million while the import was US$ 5.798 million. The mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Kenya began in 1985. At present, there are over 20 Chinese companies doing their businesses in Kenya, such as Jiangsu International Economic and Technological Cooperation Co., Sichuan International Economic and Technological Cooperation Co. Ltd. and China Road Bridge Construction (Group) Corporation and China Import and Export (Group) Corporation for Complete Sets of Equipment and so on. Bilateral relations have been developing smoothly with the traditional friendship continuously deepened and friendly cooperation in all areas increasingly expanded. Bilateral economic and trade relations have scored new progress and both sides have made rapid headway in cooperation in the areas of electric power, communications, investment and project contract, achieved new results in humanities exchanges and maintained close consultations and cooperation in international affairs. The two countries have signed a number of bilateral accords over the past decades which have covered a variety of fields including the economy, technology, energy, tourism, health, aviation, the press, archaeology and education (Kenya, 2006). The bilateral economy and trade agreements signed between China and Kenya include: Agreement on Economic and Technological Cooperation between the Peoples Republic of China and the Republic of Kenya Agreement on Trade between the Peoples Republic of China and the Repub lic of Kenya(1978) Agreement on promotion and protection of investments in 2001. Diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and China have grown exponentially in the recent past, with bilateral trade between the two countries sky-rocketing to Sh144 billion in 2010. However there is massive imbalance of trade that is in favor of China. According to provisional data by in Economic Survey 2010, Kenya exported Sh2.48 billion worth of goods to China in 2009 while imports from the Asian country stood at Sh74.5 billion. Apart from trade, the Kenyan government has, in the recent past, awarded Chinese firms numerous huge infrastructure contracts. These include; Sh27 billion Thika Road expansion contract that was awarded to Chinese Overseas Engineering Corporation, Syno Hydro and China Wu Yi; Jomo Kenyatta International Airport second phase upgrade contract that was awarded to China National Aero-Technology International Engineering Company. The first phase of the project was undertaken by China WU Yi. TBEA International, another Chinese company, is developing a 120MW thermal plant in Longonot and 600MW coal-fired power station in Mombasa as an independent power producer. The company is also undertaking other projects that involve construction of power lines and sub-stations throughout the country. Other Chinese companies carrying out projects in Kenya include Shengli Engineering Construction which is currently refurbishing the Moi International Sports Complex Kasarani at a cost of Sh1 billion and Great Wall Drilling which is exploring for geothermal energy in the Rift Valley. China is also slated to clinch the lucrative contr act for the construction of the country’s second port in Lamu. 2.2 Reasons the two countries are trading include; 1.Exchanges and cooperation in the fields of culture and education China and Kenya signed the agreement for cultural cooperation in September 1980. The two countries signed the protocol for the cooperation in higher education, according to which China provides Egerton University with apparatuses for teaching and researches with 2 teachers sent over to work there. Starting from 1982, China would provide Kenya every year with at least 10 scholarships. And in 2002, the Kenyan students studying in China came to 58 in all. In 1985, Chinas Xinhua News Agency set up a general branch office at Nairobi in Africa. 2.cooperation in the fields of military affairs In recent years, the military exchanges between China and Kenya are increasing. With military delegations from both countries visit the other. In March 1998, Kenya sent its military attachà © to its embassy in China 3.Established political and diplomatic relations between the two countries. Through signing of bilateral accords between the two countries, that cover a variety of fields including the economy, technology, energy, tourism, health, aviation, the press, archaeology and education. 4.Availability of business opportunities Kenya provides ready business for the highly advanced technology Chinese companies, for example Vision 2030 projects such as road construction, which awarded contracts to Chinese companies.

How Do We Define Afforestation And Deforestation Environmental Sciences Essay

How Do We Define Afforestation And Deforestation Environmental Sciences Essay The effects of an increasing population, growing pollution and the consequent decrease in forest area on the environment are well known. Afforestation is the answer to some extent, but needs to be carried out in a structured way with thorough knowledge of local environment, vegetation, soil type and socio-economic issues; not knowing or ignoring local conditions can prove extremely dangerous to the ecosystem. A sustainable and well-planned afforestation project helps improve soil conservation, catchment management and water quality. Such a project can also act as a wind barricade, as in the case of the The Great Green Wall Project in China. A very ambitious afforestation project that has spanned 70 years and 4,480km, it involves the building of a tree wall skirting the Gobi Desert. The tree wall is being built with the sole aim of fighting and acting as a barricade to ferocious sandstorms originating from the desert. Afforestation projects undertaken without a complete understanding of the surroundings can cause additional environmental damages. For instance , fast-growing trees commonly used in timber plantations consume huge amounts of water, hence depleting water resources around the area. There are also concerns about irreversible changes in the soil caused by exotic species. For example, pine trees are known to turn the soil acidic. The water from the soil eventually trickles down to local streams and water bodies, which, in turn, causes harm to both the water and land ecosystems. The concern mainly arises with large-scale monoculture tree plantations in Third World countries. Such plantations are usually set up for the purposes of abundant and cheap supply of raw materials to industrialised countries. A number of non-government organisations have joined hands to form a global network in order to share information and implement joint action against such plantations. In India, because of its large population, there has been growing demand for lands that are used in primary industries, such as arable land, grazing land and forestry land. And a considerable amount of cultivation and afforestation has taken place in response to such demand. This study deals with these three types of lands and analyzes the economic impact in India of cultivation and afforestation, using a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model. The model explicitly addresses substitution between traditional goods (fuelwood, cattle dung, and draft animals) and modern goods (fossil fuel, chemical fertilizer, and capital such as agro machinery). The results show that the two types of land use change (cultivation and afforestation) have many contrasting effects on various indices. Due to population pressures, in India demand has been increasing for lands that are used in primary industries. This includes arable land, grazing land and forestry land. In response to this situation, many cultivation and afforestation projects have been conducted. In the 1950s and 1960s, numerous cultivation initiatives were actively carried out and approx. 700,000 hectares per year were cultivated. However, because India has achieved food self-sufficiency and since scarce land remains to cultivate, in recent years very little cultivation has taken place. Instead , many irrigation projects have been conducted and the focal emphasis of the nations arable land policy has shifted from quantitative expansion to qualitative enhancement. China has deforested most of its historically wooded areas. China reached the point where timber yields declined far below historic levels, due to over-harvesting of trees beyond sustainable yield.[3] Although it has set official goals for reforestation, these goals were set for an 80 year time horizon and are not significantly met by 2008. China is trying to correct these problems by projects as the Green Wall of China, which aims to replant a great deal of forests and halt the expansion of the Gobi desert. A law promulgated in 1981 requires that every citizen over the age of 11 plant at least one tree per year. As a result, China currently has the highest afforestation rate of any country or region in the world, with 47,000 square kilometers of afforestation in 2008. However, the forest area per capita is still far lower than the international average. An ambitious proposal for China is the Aerially Delivered Re-forestation and Erosion Control System North Africa:- In North Africa, the sahara forest project coupled with the Seawater Greenhouse has been proposed. Some projects have also been launched in countries as Senegal to revert desertification. At present (2010) African leaders are discussing the combining of national countries in their continent to increase effectiveness. In addition, other projects as the Keita project in Niger have been launched in the past, and have been able to locally revert damage done by desertification. Europe:- Europe has deforested the majority of its historical forests. The European Union has paid farmers for afforestation since 1990, offering grants to turn farmland back into forest and payments for the management of forest. Between 1993 and 1997, EU afforestation policies made possible the re-forestation of over 5,000 square kilometres of land. A second program, running between 2000 and 2006, afforested in excess of 1000 square kilometres of land (precise statistics not yet available). A third such program began in 2007. In Poland, the National Program of Afforestation was introduced by the government after World War II, when total area of forests shrank to 20% of countrys territory. Consequently, forested areas of Poland grew year by year, and on December 31, 2006, forests covered 29% of the country (see: Polish forests). It is planned that by 2050, forests will cover 33% of Poland. According to FAO statistics, Spain had the fastest afforestation rate in Europe in the 1990-2005 period. In those years, a total of 44,360 square kilometers were afforested, and the total forest cover rose from 13,5 to 17,9 million hectares. In 1990, forests covered 26,6% of the Spanish territory. As of 2005, that figure had risen to 35,4%. Spain today has the third largest forest area in the European Union, after Sweden and Finland. Iran Iran is considered a low forest cover region of the world with present cover approximating seven percent of the land area. This is a value reduced by an estimated six million hectares of virgin forest, which includes oak, almond and pistacio. Due to soil substrates, it is difficult to achieve afforestation on a large scale compared to other temperate areas endowed with more fertile and less rocky and arid soil conditions. Consequently, most of the afforestation is conducted with non-native species, leading to habitat destruction for native flora and fauna, and resulting in an accelerated loss of biodiversity. DEFORESTATION:- DEFINITION: Deforestation is the clearance of forests by logging and/or burning (popularly known as slash and burn) Deforestation is the permanent destruction of indigenous forests and woodlands. The term does not include the removal of industrial forests such as plantations of gums or pines. Deforestation has resulted in the reduction of indigenous forests to four-fifths of their pre-agricultural area. Indigenous forests now cover 21% of the earths land surface Causes and Effects of Deforestation Trees are one of the most important aspects of the planet we live in. Trees are vitally important to the environment, animals, and of course for us humans. They are important for the climate of the Earth, they act as filters of carbon dioxide, they are habitats and shelters to millions of species, and they are also important for their aesthetic appeal. However , the trees on our planet are being depleted at a very fast rate. According to some estimates, more than 50 percent of the tree cover has disappeared due to human activity. ROOT OF CAUSES OF DEFORESTATION: http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSRNsylTo0bYxhYiESWK3QiGD_Ih95eEOFBXWj5vKVKBMnhfsAt=1usg=__vHcZj32oCodhQS3Qwvk3z40Ln4Q=Almost one-third of the earths land is covered with forest. They play an important role in sustaining life. They house over 60% of the worlds biodiversity and provide human beings with many products such as food, medicine, fuel, lumber, paper etc. There are two main causes of deforestation. The primary and most common reasons for deforestation are known as the direct causes. Logging, overpopulation , urbanization, dam construction etc are under direct causes. The other main cause of deforestation is known as natural causes since they are brought by the Mother Nature. n increase in population also means an increase in produce consumption. Thus, rainforests are destroyed and converted to cattle pasture to supply the burgeoning demand for meat. In Central America, almost half of the rainforests have been slashed and burned for cattle farming in order comply with foreign demands. Twenty-five per cent of the Amazons forests have also been destroyed for cattle ranches. Lack of government legislation for land reforms has also cleared the forest especially in developing countries like of the South East Asian nations. People in that region are among the poorest in the world and are desperate for a piece of land. Unequal distribution of resources has led these people to find their way to exploit the forests. Another reason that denudes the forest is exploitative economic development schemes and the powerlessness of government to safeguard its resources . Poor countries in their attempt to increase their revenues are in a way exploiting their resources like the forests. Timber is exported to reduce the national debt. Countries rich in mineral resources open their doors to multinational mining corporations that clear the forests as they go with their operations. The government especially those belonging in the Third World cannot curb commercial logging and implement a total log ban in exchange to higher foreign exchange rates . Development projects like dams, roads, and airports contracted by the government also cause deforestation. While most causes of deforestation occur due to human activities, there are uncontrolled causes of deforestation such as forest fires, volcanic eruption, and typhoon. Forest fires are started by lightning, and strong winds help to spread the flames. Drought in the forest has increased the amount of flammable bush and debris on the forest floor. Forest fires destroy immeasurable amount of valuable timber. They kill not only trees but also other living things. . Effects of Deforestation: There are a number of adverse effects of deforestation, such as: Erosion of Soil: When forest areas are cleared, it results in exposing the soil to the sun, making it very dry and eventually, infertile , due to volatile nutrients such as nitrogen being lost. In addition, when there is rainfall, it was hes away the rest of the nutrients, which flow with the rain water into waterways. Because of this, merely replanting trees may not help in solving the problems caused by deforestation, for by the time the trees mature, the soil will be totally devoid of essential nutrients. Ultimately, cultivation in this land will also become impossible, resulting in the land becoming useless. Large tracts of land will be rendered permanently impoverished due to soil erosion. http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/amazon_deforestation.jpg Disruption of the Water Cycle: Trees contribute in a large way in maintaining the water cycle. They draw up water via their roots, which is then released into the atmosphere. A large part of the water that circulates in the ecosystem of rainforests, for instance, remains inside the plants. When these trees are cut down it results in the climate getting drier in that area. Loss of Biodiversity: The unique biodiversity of various geographical areas is being los t on a scale that is quite unprecedented . Even though tropical rainforests make up just 6 percent of the surface area of the Earth, about 80-90 percent of the entire species of the exist here. Due to massive deforestation , about 50 to 100 species of animals are being lost each day. The outcome of which is the extinction of a functions of forests is to absorb and store great amounts of water quickly when there are heavy rains. When forests are cut down, this regulation of the flow of water is disrupted, which leads to alternating periods of flood and then drought in the affected area. Climate Change: It is well known that global warming is being caused largely due to emissions of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. However, what is not known quite as well is that deforestation has a direction association with carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. Trees act as a major storage depot for carbon, since they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is then used to produce carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that make up trees. When deforestation occurs, many of the trees are burnt or they are allowed to rot, which results in releasing the carbon that is stored in them as carbon dioxide. This, in turn, leads to greater concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRcfO6foNuW2NYYb26NeAm-vC2n-XhY3tcOlchwfyTERQKnwE8t=1usg=__Px7tkSf6dmHkFM1tJIGd3MLCdnc= POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES OF DEFORESTATION: The positive consequences of deforestation Depending on the needs of the social group concerned, deforestation has made it possible for communities to be built. Forests make way for residential houses, office buildings and factories. Governments are able to build roads to make trade and transport easier and therefore more convenient to residents. Deforestation can also mean the conversion of forest land to productive land for agricultural uses. This results in better and more abundant production of food and materials, virtually eradicating periods of want and lack. Economically, deforestation has contributed much in giving many communities the opportunity to make positive changes in their lives. The negative consequences of deforestation Unfortunately, the negative consequences of deforestation far outweigh its positive effects. Here are a few of them: 1. Exposing soil to heat and rain. When forests are cleared, soil cover, which consists mainly of vegetation, is removed as well. This exposes the bare soil to extreme conditions produced by the suns heat and rainwater. With these activities alternating, the soil quickly compacts. As rainwater flows, it will wash out the nutrients and other organic materials that make the soil rich and fertile. Add to that the frequent activities of tilling, cropping and grazing which gradually results to the degradation of the soils quality. These practices are specially a concern in areas where forest zones are drier. Agriculture practice on top of deforestation can result to the desertification of many areas. Desertification is also a direct result of the demand for the soil to produce more (as a consequence of the increase in human population), thereby decreasing to a significant degree the lands carrying capacity. 2. Flooding. Deforestation can result to watersheds that are no longer able to sustain and regulate water flows from rivers and streams. Trees are highly effective in absorbing water quantities, keeping the amount of water in watersheds to a manageable level. The forest also serves as a cover against erosion. Once they are gone, too much water can result to downstream flooding, many of which have caused disasters in many parts of the world. As fertile topsoil is eroded and flooded into the lower regions, many coastal fisheries and coral reefs suffer from the sedimentation brought by the flooding. This results to negative effects in the economic viability of many businesses and fatalities in wildlife population . 3. Non-suitability of areas for conversion. Most of the areas that have undergone deforestation are actually unsuitable for long-term agricultural use such as ranching and farming. Once deprived of their forest cover, the lands rapidly degrade in quality, losing their fertility and arability. The soil in many deforested areas is also unsuitable for supporting annual crops. Much of the grassy areas are also not as productive compared to more arable soils and are therefore not fit for long-term cattle grazing. 4. The displacement of indigenous communities and their traditional way of life. When governments decide to offer forests for deforestation mainly to open up areas for civilized communities, access to forest resources by indigenous peoples are ignored. In fact, indigenous peoples are hardly included in economic and political decisions that directly affect their lives. This encroachment ignores their rights as much as it takes away the resources that their ancestors have bestowed upon them. 5. The loss in the number of biodiversity. This is probably the most serious consequence of deforestation . Put simply, it means the destruction and extinction of many plant and animal species , many of whom remain unknown and whose benefits will be left undiscovered. Environmental problems:- http://ts3.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=249293773882id=08ef0795e99508a93ba519b21853fa1aurl=http%3a%2f%2fecogreentips.com%2fwp-content%2fimages%2fdeforestation.jpg Atmospheric:- Deforestation is ongoing and is shaping climate and geography. Deforestation is a contributor to global warming, and is often cited as one of the major causes of the enhanced greenhouse effect. Tropical deforestation is responsible for approximately 20% of world greenhouse gas emissions.According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change deforestation, mainly in tropical areas, could account for up to one-third of total anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. But recent calculations suggest that carbon dioxide emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (excluding peatland emissions) contribute about 12% of total anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions with a range from 6 to 17%. Trees and other plants remove carbon (in the form of carbon dioxide) from the atmosphere during the process of photosynthesis and release oxygen back into the atmosphere during normal respiration. Only when actively growing can a tree or forest remove carbon over an annual or longer timeframe. Both the decay and burning of wood releases much of this stored carbon back to the atmosphere. In order for forests to take up carbon, the wood must be harvested and turned into long-lived products and trees must be re-planted Deforestation may cause carbon stores held in soil to be released. Forests are stores of carbon and can be either sinks or sources depending upon environmental circumstances. Mature forests alternate between being net sinks and net sources of carbon dioxide (see carbon dioxide sink and carbon cycle). Reducing emissions from the tropical deforestation and forest degradation (REDD) in developing countries has emerged as new potential to complement ongoing climate policies. The idea consists in providing financial compensations for the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. Rainforests are widely believed by laymen to contribute a significant amount of worlds oxygen, although it is now accepted by scientists that rainforests contribute little net oxygen to the atmosphere and deforestation will have no effect on atmospheric oxygen levels.However, the incineration and burning of forest plants to clear land releases large amounts of CO2, which contributes to global warming. Forests are also able to extract carbon dioxide and pollutants from the air, thus contributing to biosphere stability. http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTGItPfLUiWZL07G_REq7tovGyqwEssPgik1RflDpEl6klE7WcS Hydrological:- The water cycle is also affected by deforestation. Trees extract groundwater through their roots and release it into the atmosphere. When part of a forest is removed, the trees no longer evaporate away this water, resulting in a much drier climate. Deforestation reduces the content of water in the soil and groundwater as well as atmospheric moisture.Deforestation reduces soil cohesion, so that erosion, flooding and landslides ensue.Forests enhance the recharge of aquifers in some locales, however, forests are a major source of aquifer depletion on most locales. Shrinking forest cover lessens the landscapes capacity to intercept, retain and transpire precipitation. Instead of trapping precipitation, which then percolates to groundwater systems, deforested areas become sources of surface water runoff, which moves much faster than subsurface flows. That quicker transport of surface water can translate into flash flooding and more localized floods than would occur with the forest cover. Deforestation also contributes to decreased evapotranspiration, which lessens atmospheric moisture which in some cases affects precipitation levels downwind from the deforested area, as water is not recycled to downwind forests, but is lost in runoff and returns directly to the oceans. According to one study, in deforested north and northwest China, the average annual precipitation decreased by one third between the 1950s and the 1980s.[citation needed] Trees, and plants in general, affect the water cycle significantly: their canopies intercept a proportion of precipitation, which is then evaporated back to the atmosphere (canopy interception); their litter, stems and trunks slow down surface runoff; their roots create macropores large conduits in the soil that increase infiltration of water; they contribute to terrestrial evaporation and reduce soil moisture via transpiration; their litter and other organic residue change soil properties that affect the capacity of soil to store water. their leaves control the humidity of the atmosphere by transpiring. 99% of the water absorbed by the roots moves up to the leaves and is transpired. As a result, the presence or absence of trees can change the quantity of water on the surface, in the soil or groundwater, or in the atmosphere. This in turn changes erosion rates and the availability of water for either ecosystem functions or human services. The forest may have little impact on flooding in the case of large rainfall events, which overwhelm the storage capacity of forest soil if the soils are at or close to saturation. Tropical rainforests produce about 30% of our planets fresh water. Soil:- Deforestation for the use of clay in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. The hill depicted is Morro da Covanca, in Jacarepaguà ¡ Undisturbed forests have a very low rate of soil loss, approximately 2 metric tons per square kilometer (6 short tons per square feet).[citation needed] Deforestation generally increases rates of soil erosion, by increasing the amount of runoff and reducing the protection of the soil from tree litter. This can be an advantage in excessively leached tropical rain forest soils. Forestry operations themselves also increase erosion through the development of roads and the use of mechanized equipment. Chinas Loess Plateau was cleared of forest millennia ago. Since then it has been eroding, creating dramatic incised valleys, and providing the sediment that gives the Yellow River its yellow color and that causes the flooding of the river in the lower reaches (hence the rivers nickname Chinas sorrow). Removal of trees does not always increase erosion rates. In certain regions of southwest US, shrubs and trees have been encroaching on grassland. The trees themselves enhance the loss of grass between tree canopies. The bare intercanopy areas become highly erodible. The US Forest Service, in Bandelier National Monument for example, is studying how to restore the former ecosystem, and reduce erosion, by removing the trees. Tree roots bind soil together, and if the soil is sufficiently shallow they act to keep the soil in place by also binding with underlying bedrock. Tree removal on steep slopes with shallow soil thus increases the risk of landslides, which can threaten people living nearby. However most deforestation only affects the trunks of trees, allowing for the roots to stay rooted, negating the landslide. Ecological:- Deforestation results in declines in biodiversity. The removal or destruction of areas of forest cover has resulted in a degraded environment with reduced biodiversity. Forests support biodiversity, providing habitat for wildlife; moreover, forests foster medicinal conservation. With forest biotopes being irreplaceable source of new drugs (such as taxol), deforestation can destroy genetic variations (such as crop resistance) irretrievably. Since the tropical rainforests are the most diverse ecosystems on Earth and about 80% of the worlds known biodiversity could be found in tropical rainforests, removal or destruction of significant areas of forest cover has resulted in a degraded environment with reduced biodiversity. It has been estimated that we are losing 137 plant, animal and insect species every single day due to rainforest deforestation, which equates to 50,000 species a year. Others state that tropical rainforest deforestation is contributing to the ongoing Holocene mass extinction.The known extinction rates from deforestation rates are very low, approximately 1 species per year from mammals and birds which extrapolates to approximately 23,000 species per year for all species. Predictions have been made that more than 40% of the animal and plant species in Southeast Asia could be wiped out in the 21st century. Such predictions were called into question by 1995 data that show that within regions of Southeast Asia much of the original forest has been converted to monospecific plantations, but that potentially endangered species are few and tree flora remains widespread and stable. Scientific understanding of the process of extinction is insufficient to accurately make predictions about the impact of deforestation on biodiversity.[56] Most predictions of forestry related biodiversity loss are based on species-area models, with an underlying assumption that as the forest declines species diversity will decline similarly.However, many such models have been proven to be wrong and loss of habitat does not necessarily lead to large scale loss of species.[57] Species-area models are known to overpredict the number of species known to be threatened in areas where actual deforestation is ongoing, and greatly overpredict the number of threatened species that are widespread. Economic impact:- Damage to forests and other aspects of nature could halve living standards for the worlds poor and reduce global GDP by about 7% by 2050, a major report concluded at the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) meeting in Bonn. Historically utilization of forest products, including timber and fuel wood, have played a key role in human societies, comparable to the roles of water and cultivable land. Today, developed countries continue to utilize timber for building houses, and wood pulp for paper. In developing countries almost three billion people rely on wood for heating and cooking. The forest products industry is a large part of the economy in both developed and developing countries. Short-term economic gains made by conversion of forest to agriculture, or over-exploitation of wood products, typically leads to loss of long-term income and long term biological productivity (hence reduction in natures services). West Africa, Madagascar, Southeast Asia and many other regions have experienced lower revenue because of declining timber harvests. Illegal logging causes billions of dollars of losses to national economies annually. The new procedures to get amounts of wood are causing more harm to the economy and overpowers the amount of money spent by people employed in logging. Control:- Reducing emissions Major international organizations, including the United Nations and the World Bank, have begun to develop programs aimed at curbing deforestation. The blanket term Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) describes these sorts of programs, which use direct monetary or other incentives to encourage developing countries to limit and/or roll back deforestation. Funding has been an issue, but at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties-15 (COP-15) in Copenhagen in December 2009, an accord was reached with a collective commitment by developed countries for new and additional resources, including forestry and investments through international institutions, that will approach USD 30 billion for the period 2010 2012. Significant work is underway on tools for use in monitoring developing country adherence to their agreed REDD targets. These tools, which rely on remote forest monitoring using satellite imagery and other data s ources, include the Center for Global Developments FORMA (Forest Monitoring for Action) initiative and the Group on Earth Observations Forest Carbon Tracking Portal. Methodological guidance for forest monitoring was also emphasized at COP-15 The environmental organization Avoided Deforestation Partners leads the campaign for development of REDD through funding from the U.S. government. http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQOM4uFrGLFAGFLzmyTTF34LtYfjU3R31OB7CxXwzCEWWxh_UV4 Farming New methods are being developed to farm more intensively, such as high-yield hybrid crops, greenhouse, autonomous building gardens, and hydroponics. These methods are often dependent on chemical inputs to maintain necessary yields. In cyclic agriculture, cattle are grazed on farm land that is resting and rejuvenating. Cyclic agriculture actually increases the fertility of the soil. Intensive farming can also decrease soil nutrients by consuming at an accelerated rate the trace minerals needed for crop growth.[citation needed] Forest management Efforts to stop or slow deforestation have been attempted for many centuries because it has long been known that deforestation can cause environmental damage sufficient in some cases to cause societies to collapse. In Tonga, paramount rulers developed policies designed to prevent conflicts between short-term gains from converting forest to farmland and long-term problems forest loss would cause, while during the seventeenth and 18th centuries in Tokugawa, Japan, the shoguns developed a highly sophisticated system of long-term planning to stop and even reverse deforestation of the preceding centuries through substituting timber by other products and more efficient use of land that had been farmed for many centuries. In 16th century Germany landowners also developed silviculture to deal with the problem of deforestation. However, these policies tend to be limited to environments with good rainfall, no dry season and

Tess of the DUrbervilles Essay -- English Literature Essays

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Tess of the d’Urbervilles is subtitled ‘A pure woman’ and this is how Thomas Hardy sees and portrays her throughout his novel. As the novel progresses the reader is introduced to many aspects of Tess as she grows from being a child on the verge of adulthood to a mature and experienced woman. In some parts of the book Hardy describes Tess as very passive but in other parts of the novel she is shown as a powerful and even godly sort of woman. The character of Tess is first shown near the beginning of the book as a proud and shy young girl. She is very loving of her family and holds them in high regard especially her parents even though they sometimes do feckless, irresponsible things such as when her father went to Rolliver’s (a pub) before going on an important delivery to â€Å"get up his strength for his journey†. At the club-walking at the beginning of the book Tess is shown to be just an ordinary, innocent country girl â€Å"not handsomer than some others† but it is also indicated that she is very attractive. The white dress she wears symbolises purity and virginity and Hardy suggests that this purity comes from lack of experience as he describes her as â€Å"untinctured† by it. She is also shown to be very protective of her father and when she is teased by her friends about him it appears that she is quite sensitive and not resilient to embarrassment. At this point Tess is a â€Å"mere vessel of emotion† and she still has a local dialect but with some educated speech. Tess is more responsible than her parents as she takes the beehive delivery herself when her father is too hung-over to do it. She is, however, contrary to her ordinariness marked out from the rest of her friends and fellow country girls from the very start of the book by a red ribbon in her hair. This doesn’t seem very significant at first but as the story progresses the colour red is mentioned several times to describe her and single her out from the rest. Some other examples of this are the blood of Prince (the family horse) which splashes on her white dress after he dies, her red mouth which is described as a flower a couple of times throughout the novel and Alec when he is described as â€Å"the blood-red ray in the spectrum of her young life†. The colour red, in general, is also frequently used to symbolise danger, passion, death and anger. Tess at this point in the nove... ...the same chapter. This happened at twilight, which the time between night and day that Hardy believed people became very sensitive to the world around them. Hardy has mentioned this theory of his before when Tess returns to Marlott after getting pregnant with Alec d’Urberville’s child. It is silent around that time and Tess seems to enjoy silence and not think of it as the absence of sound. As Tess noiselessly walks up to Angel, who is portrayed as a genuine stereotypical angel playing a harp â€Å"in the attic above her head†, she is described using the imagery of birth, growth and nature seems to be in a sort of hallucinatory, erotic ecstasy. This chapter also uses synaethesia to describe how she felt as she heard the music coming from Angel’s harp such as â€Å"the harmonies passed like breezes† and â€Å"his notes made visible†. In my opinion I think that this novel is quite depressing and the reader feels sorry for Tess as her misfortunes are usually not her fault. Personally I think that Tess is quite weak and if she had not been so weak she could have taken control of her life like she did at the end when she murdered Alec instead of being as passive as she was throughout the novel.

Solar Cookers :: Essays Papers

Solar Cookers Jewish families celebrate Passover to commemorate the freedom and exodus of the Israelites (Jewish slaves) from Egypt during the reign of the Pharaoh Ramses II. When the Pharaoh Ramses II freed the Israelites, they fled so quickly that there wasn't time to bake their breads. Instead the Israelites packed the raw dough, which they quickly baked in the hot sun into hard crackers called Matzohs as they fled through the desert. The exodus of the Israelites took place over 3000 years ago, but the Israelites were not the first to harness solar power for cooking, neither were they the last. Solar cooking has had a long rich history and has important implication for the future. Solar cooking is an important link in understanding the sun’s power, is a sink of innovation and technology, is widely applicable around the world, has social, economic and ecological benefits, and is the answer to some of the world’s biggest natural resource shortages. Although, solar cooking is an ind ustry that has yet to be revolutionized into an efficient home appliance, therefore, there are many avenues for innovation and technological advancement to be explored. Horace de Saussure coincidently created the first solar box cooker, although, because cooking food was not his objective he failed to revolutionize the solar cooking as an efficient home appliance. Horace de Saussure, â€Å"set out to determine how effectively glass heat traps could collect the energy of the sun.† Horace de Saussure placed five consecutively smaller open bottomed glass boxes within each other on a black table, in which he placed a piece of fruit. When this miniature five walled green house was exposed to the sun, each consecutive glass chamber trapped warm air and thermal radiation, which are by products of light energy being turned into heat. Consequently the innermost glass box became the hottest, a recorded 189.5 degrees Fahrenheit and Horace de Saussure successfully cooked fruit within this box. Cooking was only an experiment used by Horace de Saussure to understand his greater goal, which was how effectively glass heat traps could collect the energy o f the sun. Although, Horace de Saussure realized the practical application of his heat trap. Horace de Saussure stated, â€Å"someday some usefulness might be drawn from this device . . . [for it] is actually quite small, inexpensive, [and] easy to make.† Horace de Saussure was correct in stating that solar cooking is useful, but contrary to his advice the solar cooker failed to be revolutionized into an efficient home appliance.

Critique of a Toy Essay

The toy I have chosen is the LEGO 750 BRICKS BOX TOY This toy is good for children of ages 2 to 6 years, it allows for free play and helps children to be creative, it helps develop their learning skills and is good for their hand to eye co-ordination which also which also increase their physical and intellectual development ( Ellis flood 2010 Child Development for students in Ireland Dublin Gill & Macmillan ) Margaret Macmillan approach to the curriculum was designed around toy which develops a child’s fine and gross motor skills and manual dexterity and she regarded free play as an important aspect of a child’s development (Josephine Donohue & Frances Gaynor 2011 Education & Care in the Early Years 4th edition Dublin Gill & Macmillan). Its also a learning toy that teaches the children numbers by counting the bricks and creates the things they see around them, they come in different sizes, shapes and colours which gets the children thinking on what to build with it, which could be a house, car, farms etc. COST AVAILABILTY They are available in the following stores and cost: Argos â‚ ¬19.99 Smiths â‚ ¬32.99 Toy master â‚ ¬39.99 Tesco â‚ ¬39.99 Toy city â‚ ¬24.99 Supersavers â‚ ¬29.99 SAFETY OF TOY The toy is safe for the children as there are no small parts that can be swallowed or put in the nose or ears as they are block sizes which are relatively handy. They can be washed in soapy water since they are plastics and can also be sanitised with disinfectant. PLAY VALUE OF TOY My Lego Bricks allows the children to explore the environment by constructing their own house, cars, farms, trucks etc. My Lego bricks helps develop  language skills through verbal communication with the Lego man by pretends play, talking to their toys or moving them from one house to another. My Lego bricks help the children to build and extend their knowledge, understanding and skills in a way that makes sense to them My Lego bricks allow the children to develop their own ideas in the construction world. My Lego bricks foster the development of their social skills by interacting with one another as they build their houses or cars. It also helps the children’s physical development as they put so many hours into the play. DURABILITY OF TOY: The Lego bricks is durable because its made out of plastic rubbers. The plastics are very strong so they can withstand a lot of impact, rough handling, throwing, kicking and still not break. The Lego bricks are very durable as its thick coating of plastic rubbers makes it strong and its washable which is important for hygiene reason especially in a pre school where we have lots of children from different homes. STORAGE OF TOY: The Lego bricks comes in a box, which makes it easy for storage which can be placed on the shelve or under the table or bed. VALUE OF TOY IN RELATION TO THE CHILD’S OVERALL DEVELOPMENT: PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT: The physical development of the children’s is enhanced as their gross motor skills and fine motor skills improves. It also helps their eye to hand co-ordination as they require a higher concentration level in the construction or bringing of their imagination to life of what they see themselves creating. INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT: Playing with the Lego bricks, a child can be introduced to maths through abacus numbers, letters on blocks/bricks also height, weight, matching, sorting and their vocabulary skills can be developed. Creativity play can also be developed as Lego bricks allow a child to be imaginative with their  various construction and pretend play too can be played with the animals and Lego man. Their problem solving skills is developed too as they would want to make sure the outcome of their constructed blocks is perfect and their concentration skills is improved because they are engrossed by their play as they put in a lot of hours to achieve their goals. LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT: This is a form of communication which is either written, spoken, signed language or body language. The child is able to communicate with an adult or to pretend play with the Lego man, as the adult talks to the children in a group playing with the Lego helps improve their understanding of languages. Playing with the Lego bricks help the child develop their language skills by naming the structured he/she have constructed and interaction between the children is encouraged as they were able to share with one another and communicate as they build their house, car, living rooms, kitchens, farms, gardens, place, letters, animals will teach children vocabulary and help them make a constructive sentences. They help the child count numbers, letters and the images on the Lego is clearly stated for the child to pronounced with the help of an adult if he/she needs it. EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Playing with the Lego bricks help the children develop their emotional development as the children will be anxious to build their house, car, trucks, farms and also help the child’s growth, ability to feel and express an increasing range of emotions. Play with the Lego bricks can be rewarding and promote a sense of achievement for the child as the out come of what they have built will boost their ego and self esteem and can also help to release aggression as all their energy is put into it. SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT: Social development can be defined as the ability to interact effectively with others or developing a sense of right or wrong (their morals development) â€Å"Ellis Flood 2010 Child Development Gill Macmillan† A group of children can play with lego bricks which helps them interact with one another and the children also get to interact with an adult which will help their social development. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CHANGES/IMPROVEMENT TO THE ITEMS: I would recommend that the cost be reduced and quality improved so as to make it affordable and more durable by getting the value for your money. I would also recommend that the bricks/blocks be moulded in numbers/alphabets and the colours more brighter.

Oil Dependancy, Oil Shortfall Impact and Economic Development Planning

Question 1: Dependence on Oil & A ; Oil deficit Impact Question 2: Economic Development Planning Question 1 We come across a batch of docudramas on about day-to-day footing, yet some of them are serious plenty to pull our attending towards the upseting province of the Earth. Most significantly, all of these sorts of docudramas are besides supported by comprehensive research and surveies conveying the same massages bespeaking that we worlds are in great problem and we are traveling to see a much different life than of all time before. The docudrama, â€Å"The Crude Awakening- ( The Oil Crash 2007 ) signifies one of the most alarming state of affairss that even powerful economic systems are confronting today, i.e. , how dependance on oil is impacting non merely the oil monetary values but besides the nutrient supply. This essay aims to foreground what’s traveling to go on in transit, nutrient and energy sectors of different metropoliss of the United States when the economic system runs short of inexpensive oil. Oil is a au naturel necessity of the universe and besides for the burning engines ; it’s like a life line. Harmonizing to energy information disposal 2009 estimations, about 84 to 85 million barrels of oil was pumped and consumed every bit good, worldwide. With tantamount ingestion and production rate of oil, is it possible that we keep pumping the fossil fuels without the depletion of resources? Obviously, you can’t carry through the oil demands of the full universe with a individual well. Though there are limitless figure of oil well, some of them are still productive while some are dried out, yet each of them follow a peculiar production bell curve, dwelling of productiveness maximization, stabilising and so consuming to nil with certain figure of old ages. This curve is called Hubbert Curve and presented by Shell geologist named King Hubbert, in 1965 ( Jimenez, 2009 ) . This curve is besides applied to oil production all over the universe, Normally, oil companies concentrate more on large and easy to happen oil Fieldss ab initio and so come to deeper and smaller 1s when the big 1s start consuming. They besides take the aid of newer engineerings in this respect. In a nut shell, harmonizing to a bell curve, the production is supposed to increase, make at extremum and diminution eventually. It is to be noted that point called peak oil is arise before depletion. Take an illustration of decanter filled with java, to understand the construct. Pour cup after cup without any attempt until you see a watercourse of Java. Obviously, you would certainly necessitate to badly lean the decanter to run out the dredges. Your last streamlined cup before the concluding autumn is the peak point. Demand for oil will maintain lifting nevertheless ; oil militias of the planet will consume ( Avent, 2008 ) . What is the scenario after the peak point is raised? Indeed, an oil clang. Harmonizing to U.S. section of the interior geological study the anticipations sing the impacts of worst oil clang involve higher gas monetary values, endangered globalisation, increasing lawlessness and irreparable development of secured boring points. The solution of the job might trust in diminishing our dependance on fossil fuels. Alternate resources of bio fuels and energy seem of import in this scenario. Many critics have labeled oil deficits as something political benefit, in position of universe political relations. Everything is rather clear. Supply is less than the demand as of all time, obliging us to research alternate energy resources and alter energy use patterns. Even if we are able to use the last bead of the oil through latest engineering, increasing spread between supply and demand and higher monetary values would name a demand for a alteration. Current Tendencies of Oil ingestion in United States United States consumer really small part of petroleum oil as most of the oil is refined to be used in crude oil merchandise fabrication like Diesel fuel, jet fuel, gasolene etc. Natural gas processing generates liquid that is besides used the same manner. Renewable resources like biodiesel are used as an option for refined crude oil points. EIA besides takes into history biofuels in ingestion studies. Harmonizing to U.S. agency of economic analysis of current concern 6.89 billion barrels of crude oil merchandises were consumed in United States in 2013, connoting 18.89 million barrels per twenty-four hours, in which biofuels account for 0.32 billion. The Deficits in U.S Petroleum Harmonizing to U.S. agency of economic analysis of current concern Deficits in U.S. crude oil trade have been equal to a big fraction of the instability between U.S. imports and exports. Between 2000 and 2012, the cumulative sum of U.S. trade shortages in rough oil and refined crude oil merchandises amounted to $ 2.87 trillion, 40.5 per centum of the cumulative shortages in all goods and services over the period. And oil ‘s function has increased in importance over the clip: in 2012, for illustration, the trade shortage in oil was equal to 55 per centum of the overall trade shortage in goods and services. Deficit of Oil in United States- The Impact on Transportation Over the last 40 old ages, one of the most hard transit policy inquiries has been the issue of the monetary value of oil and its associated impact on transit systems1. Since the 1950’s the North American economic system and its transit system have become progressively dependent on oil both in footings of its production of goods and services, and their distribution from production centres to market ingestion centres ( Gordon & A ; Robert, 1975 ) . The monetary values of nutrient, consumer goods ( e.g. , electronics, furniture, and apparels ) , and capital goods points like autos and houses are all likely to endure from go oning oil monetary value dazes. Fuel monetary value addition may ensue in a broad scope of impacts depending on merely how much of the addition can be passed on to consumers. In the planetary economic system and both the internal and external transit systems of the United States, significantly higher monetary values will act upon factors like †¢ The planetary economic system care and growing †¢ Marine and inland transportation cost †¢ Modal portion Deficit of Oil in United States- The Impact on nutrient production Harmonizing to Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco nutrient monetary values have gone so high since last few old ages. In U.S. , the nutrient monetary values increased by 5 per centum in 2012, while in 2011, the rising prices rate recorded was the highest in last 36 old ages. Though USDA estimated nutrient monetary values increase in between 2.5 to 3.5 per centum, yet rising prices is traveling to be even higher. The higher monetary values are dismaying as economic system is dead with 0 involvement rates. The major ground could be the short autumn of oil supply. Since gas and oil are besides extremely demanded in agricultural sector, a diminution in oil supply will finally raise monetary values of nutrient in approaching old ages. Harmonizing to Geologist Dale Allen Pfeiffer, population is lifting, hence, there is a demand to cut population growing rate by at least one 3rd in United provinces and two 3rd in the full universe ( Trehan & A ; Bharat, 1997 ) . Deficit of Oil in United States- The Impact on energy production The macroeconomic deductions of a supply shock-induced energy crisis are big, because energy is the resource used to work all other resources. When energy markets fail, an energy deficit develops. Electricity consumers may see deliberately engineered peal blackouts during periods of deficient supply or unexpected power outages, irrespective of the cause. Industrialized states such as United States are dependent on oil, and attempts to curtail the supply of oil would hold an inauspicious consequence on the economic systems of oil manufacturers ( Trehan & A ; Bharat, 1997 ) . Consumers will hold to bear increased monetary values of fuel and those who use electricity for cookery, H2O supply and warming, affects would besides be felt. The current scenarios hence indicated uninterrupted energy crisis and are besides a human-centered crises. MentionsJimenez, R. ( 2009 ) . The Industrial Impact of Oil Price Shocks: Evidence from the Industries of Six OECD Countries.Documentos de Trabajo,No. 0731. 2007 ; N. Velazquez. â€Å"Impact of Rising Energy Costss on Small Business.† Congress of the United States. House of Representatives.Avent, R. ( 2008 ) . A World Less Flat.Guardian, UK. p. 35Energy Information Administration ( EIA ) Survey, p. 133-145, 2012.U.S. Department of the Interior. U.S. Geological Survey, p. 205-239, 2008.U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis of Current Business, April 2013.Gordon, B. , Robert, J. ( 1975 ) . Alternate Responses of Policy to External Supply Shocks.Brookings Documents on Economic Activity, ( No. 1:1975 ) , pp. 183—206.Reserve Bank of San Francisco. ( 2012 ) . Oil Prices, Exchange Rates and the U.S. Economy: An Empirical Probe.Economic Review autumn 2012, pp. 25-33Trehan T. , & A ; Bharat, V. ( 1997 ) . Oil Supply Shocks and The U.S. Economy.Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco,We ekly Letter. P.198-209.Documentary: The Crude Awakening- ( The Oil Crash 2007 ) . ( 2007 ) . Retrieved from YouTube.comQuestion 3 Baltimore’s Harbor Point Project This undertaking is considered as one of the controversial undertakings due to match of grounds. One of the grounds is the environmental effects that are disturbed by the building stuff used in edifices and walls. The component that is involved in the building and set uping the environment is Chromium. This component is extremely unsafe for the living existences as it is one of the causes of malignant neoplastic disease disease. Most of the civil applied scientists recommend utilizing Cr as a building stuff but it is besides a cause of diseases for the human existences. There could be precautional steps adopted by the people to avoid the infection of these chemicals. Apart from the Cr consequence, the other contentions that revolve around the Baltimore’s seaport point undertaking are the location of the country. It is believed that the geographical place of this undertaking is non outstanding because there is an extreme are air force per unit area striking the project’s location that could possible weaken the building. The civil applied scientists have taken the constructive steps for the safety of the Baltimore’s seaport point undertaking. The pros and cons have to be considered so that in the hereafter clip, all possible factors could be handled with great attention and concentration. Tax Increment Financing ( TIF ) is one of the fiscal footings used for roll uping the revenue enhancements from the companies, organisations and on-going undertakings. There was an estimation of the paying of revenue enhancements around one hundred and seven US dollars to the authorities which itself is a immense sum. It is besides said that TIF are traveling to increase their rate of revenue enhancements so that maximal gross could be generated from such undertakings and events ( Dorsey & A ; James, 1981 ) . There are some of the points on which the Tax Increment Financing and seaport point undertaking can non hold or can non be on the same page. On these points, they ever struggles and contradicts and this arise to many confederacies. When it comes to answerability of the revenue enhancements being asked from the profitable undertakings like seaport point undertaking from the authorities side, they ever fail to turn out the exact sum been required. There has to be complete transparence of the fiscal statements and revenue enhancements being received from such undertakings. The crystal clear fiscal statement and hard currency books have to be recorded sing the revenue enhancements being collected by the Tax Increment Financing section. It is truly compulsory for such establishments to do the record of revenue enhancement aggregation for the Harbor Point Project as they are invariably turning and expects a great feedback from all ( Dixon, 1992 ) . Harbor point undertaking will demo that it is traveling to make more chances for the people or it would saturate the sum of occupations. It is fact that more earning grounds have to be tipped out as there is traveling to be building all around the topographic points. The rewards and the wages have to be equal for all labours irrespective of their background and vicinity. There has to biasness in every facet so that the society could impact a perfect gesture to others. It is a common fact that occupation are given to those who belong to the same vicinity of company, this unbalance occupation chance has to be eradicated. All people have to be given occupations on the footing of virtue and endowment and the tendency of unfairness has to be removed ( Dietrich & A ; Skinner, 1979 ) . There are certain entities that are involved in the Baltimore Harbor’s undertaking, for case the investors, employees, authorities employees, man of affairs, the people shacking in the specific country and the elective people. All these people are a portion of the Baltimore’s undertaking and all the safety steps have to be taken into consideration from each and every facet. Proposed solution One of the major jobs is the direction and deliverable of activities sing the Baltimore building. The jobs could be resolved if there is a better direction and perfect determination. All the issues would be possible resolved in the most professional manner. There has to be presence of unfastened broad infinites so that structural makeover could be built in much specific manner. This job is supposed to be corrected on clip so that there could be flawlessness at the terminal of the twenty-four hours. There have to be engaging of professional civil applied scientists who know their duty and acquire the issues solved ( Chesterman, 1978 ) . Mentions Chesterman, C. W. ( 1978 ) . The Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals: The Audubon Society, New York, Alfred Knopf, Inc. , p.850. Dietrich, R.V. , & A ; Skinner, B. J. ( 1979 ) . Rocks and Rock Minerals: New York, John Wiley & A ; Sons, p.319. Dixon, D. ( 1992 ) . The Practical Geologist: New York, Simon and Schuster, p.160. Dorsey, J. , & A ; Dilts, J. D. ( 1981 ) . A Guide to Baltimore Architecture: Centreville, Md. , Tidewater Publishers, p. 327.

Description of Bus Stop

The play, Bus Stop, is set in a diner in the mid 1900’s during a big snow storm. It begins with a girl named Elma (who works at the diner) whom is talking to lady, that also works at the diner, named Grace. There is a big snow storm in the midst and they both ponder whether to keep the diner open incase the passengers need a place to stay. They decide to keep it open. Next the town’s experienced and humble sheriff comes to the diner to watch over the bus’ passengers, also to inform Elma and Grace on the storms activity and increasingly worse conditions. Cherie (a chanteuse from Topeka, Kansas) enters the diner frantically in effort to escape her sleeping captures. She convinces everyone that a man named Bo, whom fell in love with her when he saw her perform at the Blue Dragon nightclub where she works, and his friend Virgil kidnapped her after she got off of work. She explains that Bo wants to take her to his home in Montana where he has a significant amount of money and get married. Bus Stop takes on its plot from there with love, frustration and comedy. Bo tries to understand why the chanteuse Cherie does not love him. He realizes that no lady has ever turned him down because of the wealth he inherited. Virgil is constantly trying to make Bo comprehend what he is doing wrong in the ways of love, and how to treat a woman right to win them over. Dr. Lymann becomes progressively drunker throughout the first night at the diner and becomes flirtatious with naive Elma. Grace and Carl end up leaving to â€Å"rest† and â€Å"take a walk†, when they both conspicuously imply that they will be with each other during that time. By reading this far in the play, the reader expects to learn what will happen with Bo and Cherie’s relationship and what this snow storm will entail for the rest of the characters.

Case Treetop Forest Products Essay

Identification (20%) Facts, assumptions and problem identification Building-grade lumber industry is competitive and product being sold is not differential; only differentiation is due to product packaging and presentation. Product packaging is biggest factor when buyers are making a purchasing decision between buying from Treetop or competitors. Over the last 2 years, Treetop has declined in ratings for package of lumber products as a result lost customers to competitors . Treetop has six departments: boom, sawmill, planer, packaging, shipping, and maintenance. All other departments have a supervisor; however, packaging department does not have one designated supervisor. Possible solution is to convert one of the workers to supervisor, or dedicate a supervisor 100% of the time to packaging To solve the issue supervisor from sawmill and planer deparments cover the shifts. Due to distance between sawmill and planing divisions, the supervisors are unable given full attention to the operations of the packaging division. (assumption) Distance cause the supervisor to visit the departments not as often as they should. Productivity in 3 divisions remained constant, Sawmill and planing division productivity increased; however, productivity decreased in packaging department and caused the following: Stockpile up Risk of damaged stock increased the inventory cost Cost Competitiveness suffered due to management placing additional employees from other divisions to solve the backlog issue faced by packaging department. Packaging department run two shifts – morning and afternoon Productivity level of afternoon shifts is less than morning shift employees Reason behind the decreased in productivity level in the department is due to following: Employees takes extended lunch and coffee breaks Leave few min early, specially afternoon shift Reallocation of temporary employees from different productive departments also follow the same practise after being in the packaging department for few days. Based on the case facts, organizational effectiveness and productivity is being effected by the in place practises of Packaging  Department. Following two major problems should be resolved to overcome the issues faced by Treetop: Packaging department’s employees are effecting the working habits of other department employees. Department wide meeting communicating the company values, performance issues of packaging department, statististics proving decline in packaging, and initiatives to stop extended lunches, coffee breaks, leaving few minutes early especially in afternoon shift Produce daily backlog reports showing increase in backlog and spoilage statistics. Use negative consequences (firing), within union contract. and positive rewards based on production and quality targets being met. Methods and implementation of rewards can be determined by using Nominal Group Technique (variation of brain storming)- 1)silently and independently document their ideas, 2)collectively describe ideas to other team members without critique, and 3)silently ad independently evaluate the ideas presented Packaging division does not have a supervisor to oversee the operation on daily bases. This needs to change immediately. If costs can’t be justified, perhaps  ½ time position added, that also is in production the other half , or Bal Resolving the issues The packaging department is mostly at fault for majority of the Treetop Forest Productions Ltd recent decline of organisational success, not only are the packaging employees at fault, but also management for not monitoring the situation more effectively. It’s vital for Treetop Forest Products to improve and maintain their competitive edge within the building grade timber industry to ensure future success of the organisation. If solutions are not implemented immediately, the success of the organisation will continue to decline, placing Treetop Forest Productions Ltd in an unfavourable position where recovery may be implausible. Tackling the major issues illustrated within the packaging department will commence a strong positive path towards the future success of the organisation, placing them in a competitive position once again. There are possible solutions that can assist with effectively and efficiently dealing with this issue. Firstly, supervision and leadership needs a major  improvement within the packaging sector. As illustrated within all other fully supervised departments, work is completed efficiently and to a high quality standard. By providing packaging employees with the same supervision and leadership, near guarantees a positive change within the packaging department. Employing a leader with a with a transformational approach to leadership concerned with emotions, values, ethics, standards and long term goals will help to improve the work ethic within the packaging department. A supervisor with transformational leadership involves an exceptional form of influence that moves followers to accomplish more that what is usually expected of them. Furthermore, by introducing a new leader, costs will decrease due to supervised workers and the decrease of overtime; it can be implemented quickly, improv e productivity and increase the equity of work. As also explained within the issues of the packaging department, there is a lack of employee motivation. This is demonstrated through the low quality of work produced, longer breaks and early finishing times. Its important for managers to understand that each and every individual employee will have a set of drives, needs, decisions and behaviours to be motivated. By following the below diagram, Treetop Forest Products managers can use this to understand different emotional responses and resulting needs in the same situation. promote group cohesiveness and a pleasant working environment. In the short term, upper management could host a meeting or assembly between all departments to make them feel interrelated and important to the company. This could be a great motivation for the employees. In the long term, group evaluations could be necessary to measure the group’s performance and to see if the actions taken are resolving the problems. supervisor of the department. Learned Needs Theory: The Learned Needs Theory has three â€Å"learned needs† that can be defined as the â€Å"Need for Achievement†, â€Å"Need for Power†, and the â€Å"Need for Affiliation†. A need is amplified or suppressed through self-concept, social norms, and past  experiences (Internet Center for Management and Business Administration, Inc., 2002), although needs can also be learned through training whether it be strengthening or weakening the need. The members of the packaging department could have been more aware of their needs whether it is affiliation, power, or achievement and if they were more aware of what was there, there could have been more motivation on the part of the members to excel. Also, with the appointment of an actual supervisor, instead of taking them from other departments, it could have ensured that these needs be amplified through some forms of friendly competition or rewards. The â€Å"Need for Power† is stated as the need to make an impact on others, influence others, change people or events, and make a difference in life. If this need was taught to the members of the packaging department by the supervisors of the other departments, there could be a chance someone internally would strive so much for the need of power that he or she would emerge as the leader in a department with a declining productivity level. Having the ability to control others is a very powerful characteristic which everyone strives for internally, so if this need was brought forward by executives there would be an increase in competition and drive between the members to claim that position of hierarchy in the department. The â€Å"Need for Achievement† is the need and desire for excellence, competition, challenging goals, and overcoming difficulties. With the simple action as a reward put forth throughout the company internally that the employees of each section could enjoy, it could ignite an employee’s need for achievement and desire for excellence which in turn could ignite the competition in every employee to achieve success like his or her fellow employee has. People strive for recognition and success and if this need was amplified in the employees who have made it clear that they want to enjoy the benefits that come from a high productivity level, and brought out of those who believe that they don’t need success, Treetop Forest Products could internally enjoy success of their own making their business profit at its maximum rate. The â€Å"Need for Affiliation† is defined as the need for individuals maintain close, intimate relationships, or approval of other people. If Treetop Forest Products could bring out this need in the packaging department by showing them how the other departments in the company get along which in turn brings the productivity level up within the  department. Although, the employees of the packaging do well of getting along with each other by performing bad habits such as leaving early or extending their breaks, if that could be  transformed through the training of good habits such as exceeding expected productivity levels and working hard, the affiliation that is present now could be that much stronger and emphasized in the department. Also, in addition to affiliation within the department, there is also the possibility with the rise of productivity level and affiliation within the The team has strong cohesion, but needs to be turned around. (employees transferred are confor ming to the team norms of lack of punctuality)† Norms are the informal rules and shared expectations that groups establish to regulate the bahavour of their members.† Padge 225 chapter 8 Canadian Org Behaviour . It has to be set as a rethink to the department and communicating the new norms and aligning the norms with the company goals and objectives is critical. Through these simple needs that can be taught or learned, Treetop Forest Products could experience not only success from their five already successful departments but from the packaging department as well. If amplified the packaging department would benefit from the affiliation they would gain from the other departments, the power that employees could possibly gain with the increase of productivity via promotions or recognition, and the rewards that the employees of the packaging could gain through increased productivity levels. If Treetop Forest Products were to implicate these two simple theories there is a possibility that the packaging department would no longer be a harmful unit but instead an asset that Treetop can rely on. Through the Situational Leadership Theory, Treetop has the opportunity to find a leader that can adapt to the group and individuals and convert the now declining productivity level of the packaging department to an increasing level of productivity like the f ive other departments in the company. With the Learned Needs Theory, Treetop has the ability to install the needs for achievement, power, and affiliation to the packaging department to encourage friendly competition between the employees while still steadily increasing the productivity levels of the  department. Conclusion: Treetop Forest Products and Westboard Co have been suffering the consequences of the lackluster performance from their packaging department since there is no authority figure to keep the employees on task and working hard to produce sellable products for Westboard. With the packaging department not having their own supervisor, Treetop has appointed the supervisors of the sawmill and planing department as the supervisors of the packaging department during their shifts. With the packaging department being in a different location then the sawmill and planing department, it has caused the supervisors to make the packaging department an afterthought and with the productivity levels of the packaging department decreasing it has shown. After evaluating the case of Treetop Forest Product and the issues with their packaging department, they have been using the Contingency Theory which states that there is no one best way of leading and that a leadership style that is effective in some situations may not be successful in others and that while a leader may be very effective at one place and point in time may become unsuccessful either when transplanted to another situation or when factors around t hem change. This was clear in the case of Treetop Forest Product’s case because  although the leaders were very effective with their own departments, increasing the productivity levels of their respective departments, when transferred over to the packaging department their effectiveness did not follow. Each leader has their own key characteristics that play a major part in how they lead, whether it is their personality, drive, emotional intelligence, self-concept, etc. so what may be high and effective in one leader and his or her department may not be high and effective in a different department’s leader. Since the sawmill and planing departments were so successful when implanted into a failing department, the situation as well as the effectiveness of the leader changed. Instead of the Contingency Theory, there were others that if Treetop were to implement it could have made the productivity level of the packaging department go up while creating a better atmosphere within the company. If Treetop were to take the leader who was most able to conform his or her leadership style to that of the packaging department instead of just taking the top two  departments supervisors without considering the important variables such as distance and drive, Treetop could have improved the situation within the packaging department. With these simple changes to the company, Treetop could have quite easily changed the atmosphere and effectiveness of the packaging department to better the profits and trust gained from Westboard. If Treetop were to dedicate an individual supervisor based on performance and authoritative qualities within the department instead of having an external employee take on the responsibility of turning the packaging department around, the chances of increasing the productivity level of the packaging department would increase which would not only benefit the department but Treetop Forest Products and Westboard Co. respectively.