The Marshall Islands Are Disappearing

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Must be APA format The Marshall Islands are Disappearing Story of Elections Prompt 1 The intention of this exercise is not to take sides regarding if global warming. The purpose is to think critically about our world from many different perspectives. The article in our learning materials this week (The Marshall Islands are Disappearing) describes a sad reality of losing a beautiful place because of the rising ocean. Governments around the world are meeting and discussing options and solutions to improve this situation. How can we all help to improve this situation? Please write a paragraph or two as if you were writing to your state senator telling him or her about this situation. The government is already pledging money, but do you think there are other ways in which it can help? What are some ways in which you think individuals can help? Please keep in mind that this is a critical thinking exercise, so elaborate your ideas and thoughts. Don’t worry about what you can do or cannot do in this case. All ideas are welcome. There isn’t a right or wrong answer. Prompt 2 After viewing the Story of Electronics video, do you feel our electronic manufacturers are “Designing for the Dump”? If so, how do you feel the global community can make a difference and slow down the toxic environment? Which products do you think manufacturers should start with for making them more environmentally friendly? Why?

Paper For Above instruction

The alarming situation faced by the Marshall Islands due to rising sea levels exemplifies the urgent challenges posed by climate change, necessitating a comprehensive response from governments, individuals, and the global community. This crisis not only threatens the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the islands but also highlights the broader implications of environmental neglect and unmitigated global warming. In addressing this issue to a state senator, it is imperative to emphasize the importance of increased funding, innovative adaptation strategies, and community engagement to combat the encroaching ocean.

Although governmental pledges are a vital step, they may not suffice in fully addressing the crisis faced by the Marshall Islands. Additional measures could include fostering international cooperation to share technological advancements and financial resources, investing in resilient infrastructure, and supporting climate resilience projects tailored specifically to vulnerable communities. For example, elevating existing land or constructing sea walls can provide immediate protection, but longer-term solutions like climate migration planning and ecological restoration should also be prioritized. Furthermore, empowering local populations through education and participation ensures that adaptive measures reflect the needs and cultural contexts of the islanders, fostering sustainable and community-driven solutions.

Individuals can contribute significantly to alleviating climate change impacts through conscious lifestyle choices and advocacy. Reducing carbon footprints by minimizing fossil fuel consumption, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and advocating for sustainable policies are critical. Participating in local environmental cleanups, raising awareness about climate issues, and supporting organizations working to combat climate change can amplify collective efforts. Personal actions, when multiplied, can influence policy and corporate behavior, emphasizing the role of civil society in driving environmental change. Therefore, a multi-layered approach combining governmental action, individual responsibility, and international cooperation is necessary to stem the tide of climate-induced island loss.

Regarding the "Story of Electronics" and the concept of "Designing for the Dump," it is evident that many electronic products are crafted with limited consideration for end-of-life disposal, leading to environmentally hazardous waste. Manufacturers often prioritize cost reduction and rapid product turnover, contributing to a cycle of planned obsolescence. The global community can address this by advocating for stricter regulations on electronic waste management, promoting extended producer responsibility (EPR), and supporting innovative recycling technologies. Public awareness campaigns can also educate consumers on responsible electronic consumption and disposal practices to reduce toxic e-waste globally.

Manufacturers should focus on developing products that are more durable, repairable, and easier to recycle. For instance, designing smartphones and laptops with modular components can extend their lifespan and facilitate upgrading rather than discarding entire devices. Additionally, replacing toxic substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium with safer alternatives should be a priority across all electronic products. The emphasis should be on creating environmentally friendly products from the outset, which in turn can reduce the toxic burden on waste facilities and ecosystems. By adopting a circular economy approach, manufacturers can significantly mitigate the environmental damage associated with electronic waste and contribute to a healthier planet.

References

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  • Jansen, M., & Spalding, M. (2020). International Cooperation on Climate Resilience for Vulnerable Communities. Global Environmental Politics, 20(1), 68–88. https://doi.org/10.1162/glep_a_00519
  • Lewis, S. & Maslin, M. (2018). Defining the Anthropocene. Nature, 546(7656), 622–629. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature22988
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  • Priority, M. (2020). Electronic Waste and Environmental Health. Journal of Cleaner Production, 245, 118823. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.118823
  • Schmidt, J., & Woggon, K. (2018). Circular Economy in Electronics: Reuse and Recycling Innovation. Resources, Conservation & Recycling, 135, 168–177. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2018.01.012
  • Stasinopoulos, M., & Dellaportas, P. (2022). Sustainable Design in Electronics: Challenges and Opportunities. Environmental Science & Technology, 56(4), 2348–2357. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.1c07684
  • United Nations Environment Programme. (2020). Waste Management and Circular Economy. UNEP Reports. https://www.unep.org/resources/report/waste-management-and-circular-economy
  • World Resources Institute. (2019). Building a Circular Economy for Electronics. WRI Reports. https://www.wri.org/research/circular-economy-electronics

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