Greening the Red Planet

Article Abstract:

The Sep 1992 lift-off of NASA's Mars Observer (MO) may begin a project that will end with the conversion of the currently uninhabitable planet into one capable of supporting terrestrial life. The immediate aim of MO is to provide detailed topological and meteorological maps, monitor volcanic activity and movement of surface materials such as ice and carbon dioxide and to record magnetic and gravitational field fluctuations. Some scientists believe that the introduction of chlorofluorocarbons may cause a greenhouse planetary warming which will eventually make the surface more like Earth's.

Forecasts and trends, Environmental aspects, Mars (Planet), Discovery and exploration, Environmental engineering, Planets, Space colonies, Large space structures (Astronautics), Large space structures

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The grain of a good idea

Article Abstract:

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), located at Los Banos, Philippines, has been successful in producing high-yielding pest-resistant varieties of rice. The research done at IRRI has helped avoid the predicted starvation in Asia. The IR56 variety of rice, introduced by IRRI, has proved qualitatively and quantitatively effective. However, new varieties of pests keep surfacing and to counter this scientists have to be constantly innovative. Besides varieties of rice the IRRI has also produced inexpensive labour-saving devices such as drum seeders and snail collectors.

Research, History, Rice, International Rice Research Institute

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The greening of geology

Article Abstract:

Geologists have not responded as quickly as geographers have to the demand for environmental awareness in higher education, and this hesitancy may stem from a combination of factors. One factor is that many scientists and universities insist on the instruction of a pure and objective geology, rather than a curriculum influenced by current values. Additionally, many geologists are employed by the petroleum industry and may find themselves in an ethical dilemma. Geologists should use their unique position in the scientific community to enhance environmental studies.

Editorial, Appreciation, Study and teaching, Environmental policy, Geologists, Geology, Environmental education

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