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Minamata Disease
Minamata was a disease that came about due to chemical pollution in japan. It was caused by the consumption of fish and shellfish contaminated by methyl mercury compound that was discharged from a chemical plant. Side effects of the disease are mainly related to sensory disturbance. Now japans echo system and environment have been permanently effected.
https://www.env.go -
Silent spring
Published in 1962, Silent Spring highlights the harmful effects of DDT on the environment, wildlife (especially birds), and human health. Even though the book had an important message, it received little attention due to the societal norms and the limited status of women during the 1960s. Over time, it started debates within the scientific community for advocating a ban on DDT, showing its more harmful than beneficial effects. Legacy.com -
Sir David Attenborough
He produced and narrated many nature documentaries. Many of his recent ones have focused more on environmental issues such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, etc. His platform has have had a huge impact on educating poeple on the environment and environmental problems. (Text pg. 9) -
Bhopal
This disaster was a chemical leak that happened in India. It was known as the worst industrial accident. 45 tons of the dangerous gas methyl isocyanate was released from an insecticide plant. The gas killed thousands immediately, and most who survived lived on with permanent disabilities/impairments. Britannica.com -
Chernobyl
Chernobyl was the effect of a flawed reactor due to untrained workers. The steam explosion and fires released at least 5% of radioactive material from the reactor into the air. Some casualties occurred, however they were all to people who were at one point onsite of the reactor/plant. This accident has lead to more safety precautions in the nuclear industry. World-nuclear.org -
Julia Butterfly Hill
Julia Butterfly is an environmental activist who survived living in a tear for two years (738 days). She lived in California's Redwood Forest, in a 200 foot tree to protest logging efforts. She survived in a dangerous and cramped environment to Stan dump for her beliefs. She was ultimately successful in her efforts and is an inspiration for other activists today. Businessinsider.com -
Ellen MacArthur
Ellen MacArthur became the fastest solo sailor to sail around the world. It took hr 71 days, and she completed the task with limited food, fuel, and other supplies she’d brought with her. When she returned from the voyage, she began a new journey on how our economy works, and found it was fundamentally flawed. She now is working on ways to change that. Ellemacarthurfoundation.org -
Fukushima
Fukushima was a disaster that took place in japan after an earthquake, when a 15-meter tall tsunami disabled the power supply and cooling of three Fukushima Daiichi reactors. In total there were about 19,500 casualties and crucial damage to millions of buildings and towns. The reactors were eventually shut down, but it greatly impacted sea life and locals. -
Greta Thunberg
She acted in attempt to challenge world leaders to take care of climate change. She also wrote “The Climate Book”, led strikes, and spoke out many times. (Text pg.9) -
Wanjiku (Wawa)
Wanjiku, a climate activist and environmentalist, is dedicated to making climate justice a common and accessible cause for all. In 2021, she established Black Girl Environmentalists with the goal of empowering women, Black girls, and non-binary individuals in the fight against climate change. Wawa is committed to making sure that their voices are not just heard but that they also have a significant impact. Wawa gathers.org