Question 1: Please use the I=PAT model to explain the different impact on natural systems between the following two cities. After describing the differences, in your own words explain if you feel the I=PAT model is a useful sustainability tool.
City 1 has 100,000 residents. Outdoor temperatures during the winter are often below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing) – thusly most residents use blankets and small wood fires to keep themselves warm during this time. The average resident makes $25,000 a year.
City 2 has 500,000 residents. Outdoor temperatures during the winter are often below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing) – thusly most residents use energy intensive heating systems to keep themselves warm during this time. The average resident makes $50,000 a year.
Question 2: Please draw and describe a system map please that the system map look the same as in the picture or similiar of the following situation. Please also explain why you believe the tool you chose is useful for current state analysis.
A medium sized coastal town is being faced with a dilemma. Their coal electricity generating power plant is being decommissioned. Everyone in the town agrees because of climate change, the town should share the costs with the power company for building some electricity generating wind turbines. The power company strongly wants to build the wind turbines along the coast because well-respected impartial local scientists have determined that twice as much electricity will be generated that way. The excess green energy can be sold to a neighboring city which is growing fast. The well-connected and powerful wealthy residents who live on the coast do not want wind turbines obstructing their views and want the wind turbines built inland, even though they would only generate enough energy to power the coastal town. The well-funded local nonprofit, Wind for All, will support either plan, but prefers more green energy to less.
