15.3 Environmental geology and human impact

Humans have profoundly impacted Earth's geology through resource extraction, land use changes, and urbanization. These activities alter landscapes, disrupt ecosystems, and modify natural processes like erosion and water flow. Understanding these impacts is crucial for addressing environmental challenges.

Geologic knowledge plays a vital role in tackling environmental issues. It helps identify and address soil and water pollution, informs remediation strategies, and guides sustainable resource management. By applying geological expertise, we can work towards balancing human needs with environmental protection.

Human Impact on Earth's Geologic Processes and Resources

Human impacts on geologic processes

Top images from around the web for Human impacts on geologic processes

• 

  File:Riau deforestation 2006.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  38% of remaining Amazon forest already degraded - South Africa Today View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  14 Shocking Images showing Impact of Human activities on Earth View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:Riau deforestation 2006.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  38% of remaining Amazon forest already degraded - South Africa Today View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Human impacts on geologic processes

• 

  File:Riau deforestation 2006.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  38% of remaining Amazon forest already degraded - South Africa Today View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  14 Shocking Images showing Impact of Human activities on Earth View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:Riau deforestation 2006.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  38% of remaining Amazon forest already degraded - South Africa Today View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Resource extraction activities significantly alter landscapes and ecosystems
  • Mining operations remove minerals and rocks from the Earth's surface and subsurface
    • Open-pit mining creates large holes and disturbs surrounding areas (copper mines)
    • Underground mining can cause subsidence and sinkholes (coal mines)
  • Oil and gas drilling depletes non-renewable resources and poses risks to the environment
    • Drilling operations can contaminate groundwater aquifers (hydraulic fracturing)
    • Oil spills can devastate marine and coastal ecosystems (Deepwater Horizon spill)
• Land use changes modify natural processes and disrupt ecosystems
  • Deforestation increases soil erosion rates and the likelihood of landslides
    • Removal of vegetation exposes soil to wind and water erosion (Amazon rainforest)
    • Loss of root systems destabilizes slopes and triggers landslides (Nepal)
  • Agricultural practices can degrade soil quality and alter drainage patterns
    • Intensive farming depletes soil nutrients and leads to soil degradation (Dust Bowl)
    • Irrigation and drainage systems modify natural water flow (Aral Sea)
• Urbanization transforms natural landscapes and affects hydrologic cycles
  • Increased impervious surfaces alter water runoff and infiltration patterns
    • Paved roads and buildings prevent water from infiltrating into the ground
    • Increased surface runoff can lead to urban flooding (Houston)
  • Modification of natural landforms to accommodate urban development
    • Flattening of hills and filling of wetlands for construction projects
    • Alteration of coastlines through land reclamation (Dubai)

Environmental effects of resource extraction

• Mining and drilling operations contribute to air and water pollution
  • Dust and particulate matter from mining activities degrade air quality (coal dust)
  • Acid mine drainage and heavy metal contamination affect water resources
    • Oxidation of sulfide minerals produces acidic water (Rio Tinto, Spain)
    • Leaching of heavy metals into groundwater and surface water (Butte, Montana)
• Land use changes have far-reaching environmental consequences
  • Deforestation leads to soil erosion and sedimentation of waterways
    • Increased sediment load in rivers and streams (Yangtze River)
    • Siltation of reservoirs and reduced water storage capacity (Panama Canal)
  • Loss of natural habitats and biodiversity due to land clearing and fragmentation
    • Destruction of rainforests and wetlands (Indonesian palm oil plantations)
    • Disruption of migratory routes and wildlife corridors (Serengeti National Park)
• Urbanization exacerbates environmental problems in cities
  • Urban heat island effect increases temperatures in urban areas
    • Reduced vegetation and increased heat absorption by surfaces (New York City)
    • Higher energy consumption for cooling and increased health risks (heat waves)
  • Air and noise pollution from transportation and industrial activities
    • Emissions from vehicles and factories contribute to smog (Beijing)
    • Exposure to high levels of noise can cause hearing loss and stress (Mumbai)

Geology and Environmental Issues

Geology's role in environmental issues

• Geologic knowledge is crucial for identifying and addressing soil and water pollution
  • Soil pollution assessment relies on geologic mapping and sampling techniques
    • Identification of contaminated sites based on geologic conditions (brownfields)
    • Understanding of pollutant transport and fate in different soil types (clay vs. sand)
  • Groundwater pollution requires an understanding of hydrogeology
    • Mapping of aquifers and groundwater flow patterns (karst aquifers)
    • Identification of potential contamination sources (leaking underground storage tanks)
    • Monitoring and modeling of contaminant plumes (Superfund sites)
• Geologic expertise informs the development of remediation strategies
  • Soil remediation techniques based on geologic characteristics
    • Excavation and removal of contaminated soil (lead-contaminated sites)
    • In-situ stabilization using chemical amendments (chromium-contaminated sites)
  • Groundwater remediation systems designed with geologic considerations
    • Pump-and-treat systems to extract and treat contaminated groundwater
    • Permeable reactive barriers to intercept and neutralize contaminant plumes

Importance of sustainable resource management

• Sustainable resource management practices are essential for long-term environmental health
  • Efficient extraction and use of renewable and non-renewable resources
    • Recycling and reuse of materials to reduce demand for virgin resources (aluminum)
    • Adoption of clean energy technologies to minimize fossil fuel consumption (solar, wind)
  • Minimizing waste generation and promoting proper waste management
    • Implementing waste reduction and recycling programs (zero waste initiatives)
    • Ensuring safe disposal of hazardous materials (e-waste, nuclear waste)
• Sustainable land use practices balance human needs with environmental protection
  • Preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity through land conservation
    • Establishment of protected areas and wildlife corridors (Yellowstone National Park)
    • Promotion of sustainable forestry and agriculture practices (agroforestry)
  • Incorporation of geologic hazard assessments in land use planning
    • Identification of areas prone to landslides, earthquakes, or volcanic activity
    • Zoning regulations and building codes to mitigate risks (seismic building codes)
  • Restoration of degraded lands and ecosystems to enhance ecological functions
    • Reforestation of cleared areas to improve soil stability and biodiversity (China)
    • Wetland restoration to improve water quality and flood control (Everglades)