NOVEL ENTITIES

Question 1

Define a novel entity according to the planetary boundary framework.

Answer 1

• Novel entities encompass new substances, altered forms of existing substances, and modified life forms. They pose potential geophysical and biological effects on the environment (Steffen et al., 2015).

Question 2

Identify the 3 criteria for a pollutant to be considered a planetary boundary for novel entities.

Answer 2

• The three criteria include irreversibility or extreme difficulty in reversal, detectability of disruptive effects at a global scale, and the ability to disrupt Earth system processes (Villarrubia-Gómez et al., 2018).

Question 3

Explain at least one reason that a comprehensive set of planetary boundaries has not yet been defined for novel entities.

Answer 3

• The diverse nature and complexity of novel entities make it challenging to create a universal categorization that encompasses the wide range of potential pollutants.

Question 4

Evaluate the case for plastic pollution as a planetary boundary, providing evidence for how it meets each of the 3 criteria.

Answer 4

• Irreversibility: An estimated 8 million metric tonnes of plastic waste annually enters the oceans, with only 10% ever recycled, creating a lasting impact (Royal Statistical Society).
• Global-Scale Impact: Plastic pollution forms “floating islands,” with the Great Pacific Garbage Patch being the largest, demonstrating a global-scale problem.
• Disruption of Earth System Processes: Marine plastic pollution directly affects organisms, acts as a vector for other pollutants, and induces systemic effects across ecosystems, linking to climate change through various mechanisms (Copepods, methane release, interference with ice formation).

Question 5

Describe ways in which scientists collect data about plastic pollution.

Answer 5

• Data collection involves monitoring coastal regions, studying ocean currents, and assessing concentrations of plastic. Methods include field observations, satellite imagery, and the use of specialized instruments to measure plastic concentrations and their impact on marine life.

Question 6

Describe impacts of plastic pollution (MPP) on each sphere in the earth system, and explain how MPP links to the Planetary Boundaries of biosphere integrity and climate change.

Answer 6

• Atmosphere: Methane release due to plastic degradation.
• Hydrosphere: Direct impact on marine life, pollution of water bodies.
• Lithosphere: Alteration of ecosystems and habitats.
• Biosphere Integrity: Disruption of food webs and ecosystems.
• Climate Change: Methane release contributes to greenhouse gas effects, linking plastic pollution to climate change.

Question 7

Identify both large-scale (policy) and small-scale (individual) solutions to the plastic pollution environmental problem.

Answer 7

• Large-Scale Solutions: Develop effective global waste management infrastructure, cease plastic trade without proper waste management, implement strict legislation on fishing activity and waste.
• Small-Scale Solutions: Individual consumer choices, awareness campaigns, reducing single-use plastic, and supporting initiatives promoting responsible plastic use.