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What is environmental science?

Definition of the environment by Dr. Nathan B. English

To fully understand environmental science, we will start with a working definition of what the environment is.

Watch Dr. Nathan B. English provide a definition of the environment, including the components and relationships that comprise it. He will also demonstrate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science and explain why it is important.

Video guide

Since this video is a little longer than most videos in this course, here is a guide to the topics it covers.

Topic Timestamp
What is the environment? 0:25
Interactions in the environment 1:30
Humanity is part of the environment 2:45
What is environmental science? 3:45
Comparing CO2 emissions 5:00
What good is environmental science? 7:55

Now it’s your turn

With the reduction of CFCs helping to reduce the hole in the ozone layer, Dr. English gives one example of environmental science providing a reason for hope. In what other ways has environmental science provided a reason to be hopeful? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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A Beginner's Guide to Environmental Science: Wicked Problems and Possible Solutions

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