The Earth, The Hypothesis, The Future: The Abstract.

The purpose of this research paper is to explore the Gaia Hypothesis, in order to understand how human impact is affecting our earth. The Gaia Hypothesis states that the earth is a living organism that maintains conditions essential for survival. It acts as a self-regulating system that is continually adjusting its physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Most significant findings:
Within 50 years, 50-90% of the world's land area may be impacted significantly by human activities. This will most likely result in a substantial increase in environmental problems related to habitats, biodiversity, food production, fresh water resources and health (GLOBIO).

“Many elements of human society and the environment are sensitive to climate variability and change. Human health, agriculture, natural ecosystems, coastal areas, and heating and cooling requirements are examples of climate-sensitive systems. Rising average temperatures are already affecting the environment. Some observed changes include shrinking of glaciers, thawing of permafrost, later freezing and earlier break-up of ice on rivers and lakes, lengthening of growing seasons, shifts in plant and animal ranges and earlier flowering of trees (IPCC, 2007).”

What it means for the future?
There’s no doubt that there has been efforts and advancements in regards to minimizing our negative impact on the environment. As we look towards the future, there is hope, and it is possible to move towards a greener future.

Ways we can improve:
-Investing in clean energy, green jobs and smart energy.
-Including the use of solar panels.
-Fixing our agricultural industry and industrial industry, by regulating food companies and improving animal treatment.

But first we must embrace the fact that the earth is a living organism/whole system made up of multiple components that work together to make life possible. We cannot fix the problems that earth is facing without understanding how the earth functions first.

PULL QUOTE:
"Nature favors those organisms which leave the environment in better shape for their progeny to survive." -James Lovelock