Bucket Baby vs the Climber

Steven Mathers Ms. Waisner English 112-801 Illustration essay Bucket Baby Vs The Climber Why are professional tree trimmers always smiling? The reason the trees make them chipper. As the owner of a small tree service I have had to evaluate whether or not to purchase an aerial lift bucket truck to assist in the tree trimming and removal process or to stick to old methods such as climbing. Most people have fond memories of climbing trees as young children. â€Å"Learning to safely climb a tree is a lot more involved than simply spying some sturdy looking branches that seem like they could hold your weight as you scramble to the top. (Toothman) However, professionally climbing a tree to trim or remove branches can be a truly frightening experience that can be physically exhausting. On the other hand operating an aerial lift may be frightening, However , not physically exhausting. The utilization of an aerial lift will increase productivity by decreasing climber involvement and increasi ng company morale. An ancient proverb states â€Å"Many hands make light work. † (Ammer) In life this holds true, but in practicality it is not always the most efficient method.By purchasing an aerial lift and using it in my day to day tree trimming and tree removal operations, I could do the work of ten climbers using one hundred ropes in half the time. Sure, my cost of operation would increase, but with great risk comes great rewards. As I stated before my ability to complete the work would increase substantially resulting in a higher profit margin. If I were to scale a tree ranging in heights of one hundred feet plus, I would have to complete a variety of steps. First I would have to assemble all my gear.Then attach all my utensils to my climbing saddle, before climbing the tree. Next set a work line in a desired location to cut off limbs. After this I must determine mass load of branches that I will be cutting off. Then I must evaluate hinge points and branch swinging cle arance. There is a lengthy process to climbing trees professionally. If I were to work on the same tree using an aerial lift, I would drive up to it with the bucket,set up the lift in an appropriate location to access the tree effectively, jump in the bucket, oom up to the top with my chainsaw and ropes, calculate swing distance, hinge points, mass load, and begin cutting. The theory is primarily the same but the method is different, By utilizing both crafts of climbing and the bucket, the overall efficiency of the operations will increase. The next important piece to examine is how involved a human being must be in the tree service industry. Imagine a tree climber working for a tree removal service, climbing a tree about ninety feet in the air thirty feet out on a branch.Being asked to cut off the end of that branch while hanging from the side holding a power chainsaw. Also this branch is located over a house. The branch is only attached to a rope, when it falls the violent up and down movement occurs with the worker still dangling. By separating the climber from the tree and putting that climber in an aerial lift it lessens the danger presented to the climber in the overall trimming and removal process. It could be argued that by separating the climber from the tree the overall quality of the tree work may decline. However, this issue could be resolved simply by awareness.By structuring company meetings to address issues before they arise, one can take control of the probability of an outcome. There are a variety of incentives that one can implement to raise company moral. Rewarding an employee with a fair wage for a hard job it makes them feel respected; by rewarding an employee with a piece of equipment that makes a hard job easier at the same hourly wage in turn makes them feel cared about. The purchase of a bucket truck would accomplish company goals, and move away from â€Å"the one-guy-and-truck sort of business that dominate the industry†. mast rull) By decreasing climber involvement while increasing overall efficiency and profit margins,the company will gain success resulting in higher wages and better benefits for employees. As the company grows more successful its ability to insure the well being of its team members. As a result the employee gains a greater sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. When a person likes what they are doing, they can do it all day long with a smile on their faces. When everything runs smoothly and everyone is happy the overall company morale will be boosted.Again resulting in increased productivity, efficiency and quality of work. Owning a small company is a daunting venture, I am constantly making sacrifices and devoting most of my attention the business. In all my analyzing and reflection it stands to reason that the purchase of an aerial lift bucket truck for my company would be a wise investment that would pay for itself within a short time frame. The utilization of an aerial li ft in the tree trimming and removing process will increase productivity by decreasing climber involvement and increasing company morale.Citation Page Christine, Ammer The American Heritage ® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Houghton Mifflin Company. 07 Mar. 2013. . Toothman, Jessika. â€Å"How Tree Climbing Works† 05 October 2009. HowStuffWorks. com. 07 March 2013. Mastrull, Diane. â€Å"Diane Mastrull: Montco Tree Business Seeks to Go National. † Philly. com. The Inquirer, 02 Oct. 2012. Web. 07 Mar. 2013.

Chapter 2 Outline and Key Terms

Chapter 2 First Farmers The Revolutions of Agriculture, 10,000 b. c. e. –3000 b. c. e. Chapter Overview CHAPTER LEARNING OBJECTIVES †¢TO MAKE STUDENTS AWARE THAT AGRICULTURE EVOLVED INDEPENDENTLY IN SEVERAL REGIONS OF THE WORLD †¢To trace the development of agriculture and its local variations †¢To consider the social implications of the Agricultural Revolution Chapter Outline I. OPENING VIGNETTE A. In the past two centuries, there has been a dramatic decline in the number of farmers worldwide. 1. United States an extreme case: only around 5 percent of Americans, many of them over 65 years old, were still on farms in 2000 2. reat increase in the productivity of modern agriculture B. The modern retreat from the farm is a reversal of humanity’s first turn to agriculture. II. The Agricultural Revolution in World History A. Agriculture is the second great human process after settlement of the globe. 1. started about 12,000 years ago 2. often called the Neolit hic (New Stone Age) or Agricultural Revolution 3. deliberate cultivation of plants and domestication of animals 4. transformed human life across the planet B. Agriculture is the basis for almost all human developments since. C.Agriculture brought about a new relationship between humans and other living things. 1. actively changing what they found in nature rather than just using it 2. shaping the landscape 3. selectively breeding animals D. â€Å"Domestication† of nature created new mutual dependence. 1. many domesticated plants and animals came to rely on humans 2. humans lost gathering and hunting skills E. There was an â€Å"intensification† of living: getting more food and resources from much less land. 1. more food led to more people 2. more people led to greater need for intensive exploitation III. Comparing Agricultural BeginningsA. The Agricultural Revolution happened independently in several world regions. 1. Fertile Crescent of Southwest Asia 2. several areas in sub-Saharan Africa 3. China 4. New Guinea 5. Mesoamerica 6. the Andes 7. eastern North America 8. all happened at about the same time, 12,000–4000 years ago 9. scholars have struggled with the question of why agriculture developed so late in human history B. Common Patterns 1. Agricultural Revolution coincided with the end of the last Ice Age a. global warming cycle started around 16,000 years ago b. Ice Age was over by about 11,000 years ago . end of Ice Age coincided with human migration across earth d. extinction of some large mammals: climate change and hunting e. warmer, wetter weather allowed more wild plants to flourish 2. gathering and hunting peoples had already learned some ways to manage the natural world a. â€Å"broad spectrum diet† b. development of sickles, baskets, and other tools to make use of wild grain in the Middle East c. Amazon: peoples had learned to cut back some plants to encourage growth of the ones they wanted d. Australians had elaborat e eel traps 3. omen were probably the agricultural innovators 4. gathering and hunting peoples started to establish more permanent villages a. especially in resource-rich areas b. population growth perhaps led to a â€Å"food crisis† 5. agriculture developed in a number of regions, but with variation a. depended on the plants and animals that were available b. only a few hundred plant species have been domesticated c. only fourteen large mammal species were domesticated C. Variations 1. the Fertile Crescent was the first to have a full Agricultural Revolution a. resence of large variety of plants and animals to be domesticated b. transition to agriculture triggered by a cold and dry spell between 11,000 and 9500 b. c. e. c. transition apparently only took about 500 years d. much more societal sophistication (mud bricks, monuments and shrines, more elaborate burials, more sophisticated tools) 2. at about the same time, domestication started in the eastern Sahara (present-day S udan) a. the region was much more hospitable 10,000–5,000 years ago b. domestication of cattle there about 1,000 years before Middle East and India c. n Africa, animals were domesticated first; elsewhere, plants were domesticated first d. emergence of several widely scattered farming practices e. African agriculture was less productive than agriculture in the Fertile Crescent 3. separate development of agriculture at several places in the Americas a. absence of animals available for domestication b. only cereal grain available was maize or corn c. result: replacement of gathering and hunting with agriculture took 3,500 years in Mesoamerica d. Americas are oriented orth/south, so agricultural practices had to adapt to distinct climate zones to spread IV. The Globalization of Agriculture A. Agriculture spread in two ways: 1. diffusion: gradual spread of techniques and perhaps plants and animals, but without much movement of human population 2. colonization or migration of agric ultural peoples 3. often both processes were involved B. Triumph and Resistance 1. language and culture spread with agriculture a. Indo-European languages probably started in Turkey, are spoken today from Europe to India b. similar process with Chinese farming . spread of Bantu language in southern Africa d. similar spread of Austronesian-speaking peoples to Philippines and Indonesian islands, then to Pacific islands 2. the globalization of agriculture took about 10,000 years a. did not spread beyond its core region in New Guinea b. did not spread in a number of other regions c. was resisted where the land was unsuitable for farming or where there was great natural abundance 3. by the beginning of the Common Era, gathering and hunting peoples were a small minority of humankind C. The Culture of Agriculture 1. griculture led to much greater populations 2. changes in world population a. 10,000 years ago: around 6 million people b. 5,000 years ago: around 50 million people c. beginning of Common Era: around 250 million people 3. farming did not necessarily improve life for ordinary people a. meant much more hard work b. health deteriorated in early agricultural societies c. new diseases from interaction with animals d. the first epidemics appeared due to larger communities e. new vulnerability to famine, because of dependence on a small number of plants or animals 4. ew constraints on human communities a. all agricultural people settled in permanent villages b. the case of Banpo in China (settled ca. 7,000 years ago) 5. explosion of technological innovation a. pots b. textiles c. metallurgy 6. â€Å"secondary products revolution† started ca. 4000 b. c. e. : a new set of technological changes a. new uses for domesticated animals, including milking, riding, hitching to plows and carts b. only available in the Eastern Hemisphere 7. deliberate alteration of the natural ecosystem a. removal of ground cover, irrigation, grazing b. vidence of soil erosion and def orestation in the Middle East within 1,000 years after beginning of agriculture V. Social Variation in the Age of Agriculture A. Pastoral Societies 1. some regions relied much more heavily on animals, because farming was difficult or impossible there 2. pastoral nomads emerged in central Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, the Sahara desert, parts of eastern and southern Africa 3. relied on different animals in different regions a. horses were domesticated by 4000 b. c. e. ; encouraged the spread of pastoral peoples on Central Asian steppes b. omesticated camels allowed human life in the inner Asian, Arabian, and Saharan deserts 4. no pastoral societies emerged in the Americas B. Agricultural Village Societies 1. most characteristic form of early agricultural societies, like Banpo or Jericho 2. maintenance of equality and freedom (no kings, chiefs, bureaucrats, aristocrats) 3. Catalhuyuk, in southern Turkey a. population: several thousand b. dead buried under their houses c. no streets; pe ople moved around on rooftops d. many specialized crafts, but little sign of inherited social inequality e. o indication of male or female dominance 4. village-based agricultural societies were usually organized by kinship, group, or lineage a. performed the functions of government b. the Tiv of central Nigeria organized nearly a million people this way in the late nineteenth century 5. sometimes modest social/economic inequality developed a. elders could win privileges b. control of female reproductive powers C. Chiefdoms 1. chiefs, unlike kings, usually rely on generosity, ritual status, or charisma to govern, not force 2. hiefdoms emerged in Mesopotamia sometime after 6000 b. c. e. 3. anthropologists have studied recent chiefdoms in the Pacific islands 4. chiefdoms such as Cahokia emerged in North America 5. distinction between elite and commoner was first established VI. Reflections: The Legacies of Agriculture A. Agriculture is a recent development in world history. 1. was an a daptation to the unique conditions of the latest interglacial period 2. has radically transformed human life and life on the planet more generally B.One species, Homo sapiens, was given growing power over other animals and plants. C. Agriculture also gave some people the power to dominate others. Key Terms AGRICULTURAL REVOLUTION: ALSO KNOWN AS THE NEOLITHIC REVOLUTION, THIS IS THE TRANSFORMATION OF HUMAN (AND WORLD) EXISTENCE CAUSED BY THE DELIBERATE CULTIVATION OF PARTICULAR PLANTS AND THE DELIBERATE TAMING AND BREEDING OF PARTICULAR ANIMALS. Austronesian: An Asian-language family whose speakers gradually became the dominant culture of the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Pacific islands, thanks to their mastery of agriculture.Banpo: A Chinese archeological site, where the remains of a significant Neolithic village have been found. (pron. bahn-poe) Bantu: An African-language family whose speakers gradually became the dominant culture of eastern and southern Africa, thanks to their agricultural techniques and, later, their ironworking skills. (pron. BAHN-too) Bantu migration: The spread of Bantu-speaking peoples from their homeland in what is now southern Nigeria or Cameroon to most of Africa, in a process that started ca. 3000 b. c. e. nd continued for several millennia. broad spectrum diet: Archeologists’ term for the diet of gathering and hunting societies, which included a wide array of plants and animals. Cahokia: An important agricultural chiefdom of North America that flourished around 1100 C. E. (pron. cah-HOKE-ee-ah) Catalhuyuk: An important Neolithic site in what is now Turkey. (pron. cha-TAHL-hoo-YOOK) chiefdom: A societal grouping governed by a chief who typically relies on generosity, ritual status, or charisma rather than force to win obedience from the people. iffusion: The gradual spread of agricultural techniques without extensive population movement. domestication: The taming and changing of nature for the benefit of humankind. end of the last Ice Age: A process of global warming that began around 16,000 years ago and ended about 5,000 years later, with the earth enjoying a climate similar to that of our own time; the end of the Ice Age changed conditions for human beings, leading to increased population and helping to pave the way for agriculture.Fertile Crescent: Region sometimes known as Southwest Asia that includes the modern states of Iraq, Syria, Israel/Palestine, and southern Turkey; the earliest home of agriculture. horticulture: Hoe-based agriculture, typical of early agrarian societies. intensification: The process of getting more in return for less; for example, growing more food on a smaller plot of land. Jericho: Site of an important early agricultural settlement of perhaps 2,000 people in present-day Israel.Mesopotamia: The valley of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in present-day Iraq. native Australians: Often called â€Å"Aboriginals† (from the Latin ab origine, the people who had been ther e â€Å"from the beginning†), the natives of Australia continued (and to some extent still continue) to live by gathering and hunting, despite the transition to agriculture in nearby lands. pastoral society: A human society that relies on domesticated animals rather than plants as the main source of food; pastoral nomads lead their animals to seasonal grazing grounds rather han settling permanently in a single location. â€Å"secondary products revolution†: A term used to describe the series of technological changes that began ca. 4000 b. c. e. , as people began to develop new uses for their domesticated animals, exploiting a revolutionary new source of power. stateless societies: Village-based agricultural societies, usually organized by kinship groups, that functioned without a formal government apparatus. teosinte: The wild ancestor of maize. (pron. tay-oh- SIN-tay)

Business Ethics Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Business Ethics - Research Paper Example The auditors would come, and most probably, would not be able to learn about Woods’s adjustments in the bills. There are two main options in front of Alex; either to tell what Wood has been doing to the auditors and get him fired, or remain silent and see what happens. There is no guarantee that Alex would be able to convince the auditors to let go of Woods if they come to know what he has been doing, and if Alex does try to convince them to do so, they might find it offensive and report the case to the authorities accusing Alex of cheating. On the other hand, this fact cannot be overlooked that whatever Woods has done has benefited the company in general and the department in particular one way or the other. In addition to that, the overall effect of Woods’s adjustments is negligible as the funds affected amount to perhaps five percent of the plants annual earnings. These points impart the need to overlook Woods’s mistake and consider the benefits drawn as a result of it. Utilitarianism is one of the most widely employed theories of ethics. Utilitarianism, as the name indicates, places emphasis upon the utility of an action. â€Å"Utilitarianism states that the moral standard should be promotion of the best longterm interests of everyone concerned† (â€Å"Nine theories of ethics†). In other words, if the end result of a certain action is good, this justifies the action irrespective of whether or not it is against the rules or principles. Analysis of the case under consideration suggests that whatever Woods has done has generated favorable results for the company. Absolutism is another theory of ethics which believes in a universally applicable system of values and norms. This system is applicable upon everyone at all times. Absolutism places a lot of emphasis upon rules, and does not make any exceptions. Analyzing the case under consideration in light of the theory of absolutism,

Technology in Education Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Technology in Education - Research Paper Example PDAs vs. hard form books: Portable digital document devices are part of schools, colleges, universities, libraries. People sit in cafes, parks, travel in metros and have this digital device that contains many books in them. It has added to the economy aspect as well, for example large number of books are available online now which were not in past and people had to pay for it or go to markets to get them, with so many books available online, mere download enables books in your digital device, and they don’t even cost anything in terms of the digital memory, being thin on resources in terms of digital consumption, these books consume merely a few kilobytes or megabytes of space which has become an irrelevant term in modern times considering how much of space and capacity has been created in the computers in present day. Diplomas, certifications and courses are conducted online. Video conferencing is a gift of technology and is largely used in educational sector, not just in the domain of students but also for the organizers and top heads of educational departments all over. The manner in which education is being spread has also changed as a result of technology. More than hard form of educational resources, it is the soft form of educational content that is in practice and business. E- Libraries have over taken the conventional libraries. Note books have been replaced by the digital note books. Tablets, laptops, mini computers, desktops, mobile phones, portable readers, electronic readers, all are depictive of the digital sources which are used for educational purposes. For example specially designated and designed digital equipment has been introduced for a specific purpose of educational imparting. This device comes in form of a... It is stated that the mankind has explored many ways for its comfort. It has been a continuous process and it has been achieved in steps with improvement from one phase to another. Technology has changed the outlook of our entire life, the entire pattern of how we go about things, how things are perceived, how they are adopted and accepted. Communication is being performed through it, which is an essential tool of technology. This tool has been put into effect in different disciplines of life, and education is one of them. Technology and communication, that were both analyzed in this essay have been brought together to facilitate the purpose of modern and quality education and it has been put to good effect in many zones. While education has been a continuous quest, and it is through education that these changes and developments have been made, yet education too has undergone the modes in which it can be acquired. In conclusion, the researcher states that technology is bound to incre ase the spread of education in times ahead, at the same time it would open more dimensions of educational ease and spread in all parts of the world. It is also mentioned that although libraries look more deserted now, yet it is the omnipresence of technology that is more dominant. With every day advancements in informational technological field, one can only guess what would be the future outlook, but one can for sure say that it is the betterment of education that will come along it as the technology and science proceed.

MARKETING REPORT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

MARKETING REPORT - Essay Example In the last two years, the tourism revenues of the state have decreased especially that of Gold Coast City because of decrease in the number of tourists. The financial crisis that rooted from US and now influencing other countries of the world including Australia is posing great threats to the economies. The aim of the Australian tourism industry is to promote tourism by introducing innovative and effective marketing strategies. The Australian tourism target was $ 6.3 billion for 2014 as compared to $ 3.7 billion in 2002 and it requires the growth rate of 6% to achieve this level. However, there is a gap produced between the targeted and actual level. Although number of visitors is increasing because of the increasing corporate events however; the challenge is to close this gap by increasing the length of stay along with number of tourists. Government has planned to invest $410 million in the tourism industry of Australia in the next three years; however, the need of products and ser vices with effective marketing strategies to attract the tourists is not ignorable. Our proposal is to introduce Corporate Tourists Social Network (CTSN) service which will not only provide the corporate customers an opportunity to attend the corporate events in a more luxurious manner, but it will also enhance their social network by enhancing their interactions with each other and creating a linkage among them through online database. We have high expectations from our proposal because it will attract the corporate people by fulfilling their needs and meanwhile it will also improve tourism industry and investment opportunities in Australia. Australian Tourism Industry has been facing many challenges for the last two years because of financial global crisis. This project sets out the strategies of Australian Tourism and introduces a new tourism service. The topic area of this project is to research the

Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of joining a Assignment

Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of joining a professional association - Assignment Example rm, to voice and commiserate, and to provide affiliates a feeling that they are never alone in the hurdles opened by their profession in general (Kjellberg, 2013). Opportunities to discover new techniques, job options, among others, are priceless advantages to group members (Kjellberg, 2013). The disadvantages, on the other hand, of joining these organizations are needless fees, consumes a lot of time, needless expenses, socializing takes the attention away from career development and also they create a lot of pressure to achieve highly among its members (Harvey et al., 2003). Most professional organizations need the reimbursement of yearly fees. There might also be the first application fee (Kjellberg, 2013). Whereas $100 does not appear to be much, it accumulates when the individuals joins the national and state associations of numerous professional organizations (Harvey, 2004). Apart from the membership fees and applications, people also spend money on association lunches, breakfasts and dinners and gas expenses or transportation costs (Harvey, 2004). According to these advantages and disadvantages of belonging to a professional organization, I would opt to join a professional organization because I need access to the information, which will influence my practice. I also need people who will advocate for me in front of others and people who will develop me professionally, thus my decision to join a professional

On Either one of the Prison Epistles or one of the Pastoral Epistles Research Paper

On Either one of the Prison Epistles or one of the Pastoral Epistles and on one of the General Epistles - Research Paper Example Lastly, it discusses one important lesson learned from each letter and the impact of the lesson learned to someone’s life. Epistle means a literary letter which was planned to be published and read by the general public. The Prison Epistles are the letters that can be found in the New Testament of the Holy Bible. One of the Prison Epistles written by Paul during his imprisonment in Rome is the Prison Epistle to the Philippians. According to the New International Version Holy Bible (1984), Paul had been mobbed in Jerusalem, arrested there, and transferred to Caesarea, and finally, when he requested to the Roman imperial court that a decision or judgment to be changed and appealed as a Roman citizen, he had been removed to Rome for trial. When the Philippians heard this situation, they prepared to stand by him, raised some money for him to use in his trial and sent Epaphroditus, a member of the church in Philippi in Macedonia, to wait on Paul, to devote one’s services to Paul, and to stay with him until his problem were solved. So Epaphroditus went with the gift given by the church and for the purpose of telling Paul about the interest and excitement of the church to know some news about his situation and the result of his trial before the Roman imperial court. Paul took this chance and this occasion to write to the Philippians with three reasons namely: (1) to thank them for their gift and thank them for their fellowship in the gospel, (2) to tell and comfort them about his situation in Rome and about his trial, telling them that the effect of his imprisonment has turned out for the advancement of the gospel, and lastly (3) especially to encourage them and strengthen them in the hope and joy that was theirs in Jesus Christ. He also wrote that he is going to send Timothy soon, that he may know of their condition and send Epaphroditus back to them because Epaphroditus longs for all of them and that he has the feeling of great worry or unhappiness bec ause the church heard that he is ill but God has been so merciful to him. He told them that he is more excited to send Epaphroditus back to them so that they may be glad that Paul might have less worry or fear. The other purpose of the letter was to stop the Judaizers from encouraging the Philippian Christians to submit to circumcision and the last purpose why Paul wrote to them was to encourage the Philippian believers to stop the misunderstanding among them especially the two women involved namely, Euodia and Syntyche that they need to agree with each other as sisters in the Lord or be united. He also asked his faithful partner to help these two women for they have worked hard with him to spread the gospel. The key characteristics of the letter were (1) the Epistle is a letter and not a long and serious piece of writing on a particular job. It is just a simple letter to personal friends which has no theological discussions, no fixed outline and no formal development, (2) it is a l etter of love, Paul’s message has nothing but praise or the Philippians and prayer that their love may be rich, (3) it is a letter of joy, despite being imprisoned, he is still full of joy. After reading the book of Philippians, 20 times that Paul uses the words joy, rejoice, peace, content, and thanksgiving. It is a

Final Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Final - Assignment Example Those formulations are then adopted through the congressional process and then to the bureaucratic process. This part is done by the executive agencies. In this case, the policy implementation could include adopting regulations and rules, providing products and services, adjudication of disputes, public education campaigns and many others. Various actors and observers evaluate the effects of policies. In this case, they evaluate whether the policy is solving the problem at hand by accomplishing their goals. Evaluation compares the costs and benefits of policies. Congress uses its oversight powers to seek answers on the progress of the policy project. 2. A balanced budget is the one where the government raises enough money to fund the budget. In this case, the total revenues are equal to the total expenditures. In this case, there is neither a budget surplus nor a budget deficit that exists. As such, the budget accounts are in balance. However, a balanced budget generally refers the one that has no budget deficit, but a budget surplus may exist. A balance budget does not require the government to source for revenue from external sources. In addition, the government does not need to seek a supplementary budget from the legislative body to finance stalled projects as a result of financial deficiency. There are several factors that can cause budget surplus. One of them is increased taxation rate on some product. In this case, the government may increase the tax to achieve another objective rather that collecting revenue; may be to discourage consumption of a certain product. Another factor is improved economic growth or devaluation of currency in trading partners. The government has a large number of departments, parastatals, and agencies among other area that it operates. Provision of services such as medical, education and security are in the responsibilities of the government. In this

The Effects of Rap Music on Violent Behavior among African American Research Proposal

The Effects of Rap Music on Violent Behavior among African American Teenagers - Research Proposal Example Rap music is gaining popularity and momentum day by day, leaving parents, government officials and health authorities worried about the consequences of watching this form of music genre. This is because; this form of music has some components of aggressiveness and sexual activities in the lyrics and video which can instigate teenagers to perform immoral acts because of fantasizing and role modeling. The beat, rhythm and lyrics of the songs make the listeners listen to the rap songs again and again and make them feel that the content of the songs is the realistic form of the outside world. Many studies have reported various effects of rap music on the adolescents and youth who watch and listen to them. Some of the effects include aggressive behaviors, poor academic performance, health-risk behaviors and suicidal ideation. Of these, aggressive and violent behaviors are very important because, they can have a devastating impact on the society. Rap music has its origins from the African- American community and it is interesting to know what effects this genre of music has on the population from where it has come. Thus this research aims to explore the effects of rap music on the violent behaviour of the African –American teenagers. The study will be a prospective study over 12 months period. The enrolled participants will be asked to record the number of hours they listen to rap music or watch music video and the type of songs they view or listen. After 12 months, the outcomes will be measured. The main outcome that will be measured is violent or aggressive behavior. Other measures which will be measured include academic performance, sexual practices and behavioural problems. The data will be analysed using univariate and covariate analyses.

A Simple Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A Simple Plan - Essay Example At the beginning of the story, Hank Mitchel in the company of his brother Jacob and Jacob’s friend called Lou are in Jacob’s truck. â€Å"†¦, Howdy, Hank," he said, grinning. Jacob smiled at me from behind the wheel. His dog, a big, overgrown mutt, mostly German shepherd, but with some Labrador thrown in on top, was in the back. It was a male dog, but Jacob had named him Mary Beth, after a girl hed dated in high school, his first and only girlfriend. He referred to him as a "she," too, as if the dogs name had blinded him to his gender. I climbed in, Lou pulled himself up behind me, and we backed our way down my driveway to the street.† (p. 4). A fox crosses their path, and the three of them decide to chase after it. The fox leads them to discovering a plane that had crashed into the woods. Upon scrutinizing and checking the plane, they find a dead pilot and a bag of money. The three of them decide to keep the money and share it later when there could be no m ore talk of it. The three men discovered the money together and in the event that they were to share the cash; then they should have done so in equal proportions. What followed indicated that Hank was a greedy man, especially for money First, Hank feels that the money would not be safe if they kept the whole sum. Consequently, his wife advises him to take some of the money back to the plane. They hope that that would help them to waylay suspicion. While back in the woods, Hank kills a Mr. Pederson along selfish lines. He knew within him that Mr. Pederson would spill the secret to the public. Hank wanted to escape liability of having killed a person, so he sets up Lou by blackmailing him using the money. After Lou discovers Hank’s intention, he becomes agitated and engages in fuss with him prompting Jacob to kill Lou. â€Å"†¦He didnt finish his sentence. There was an explosion behind me, a flash of blue light followed instantly by a sense of movement over my left shoulder. I

African American Identity Essay Example for Free

African American Identity Essay It was a hot August day as sweat beat down on Thomas Jefferson Brown. He had been working in the field 2 hours before the hot sun had made its presence known. He looked back over the drying field, hoping that this crop would provide for his family better than last years crop had. Thomas watched his oldest son, Nathan, who worked down one row of the field while staring intently at the cotton plants as he picked the cotton. Nathan was a very inquisitive young man who had just yesterday asked his father what it was like being a slave for Mr. Walter Johnson. When his father had told him that in a lot of ways life was so much easier than now, Nathan had given him a look that allowed Thomas to know that his son could not understand. How could he understand? Nathan had not grown up a slave and seen that while it was extremely difficult, there was a feeling of stability to life then. Yes, Thomas Jefferson Brown had endured the beatings and yes he had watched as his Mother and eventually his sisters had been sexually assaulted, but how do you tell a young man such as Nathan that such was the way of life; it was to be expected, along with the comfort of knowing where your next meal was going to come from. Since Tomas had been freed after the great war, He s and his family had endured much more than that; having watched the lynching of two of his brothers and numerous friends. They were the lucky ones though, Thomas thought, while looking up at the fiery ball of heat known as the sun. They did not have to endure other hardships; their suffering was over. Yes it was hard for Nathan to know that life was indeed easier as a slave than a freed man, and maybe, just maybe, things would change during Nathans lifetime. Thomas Jefferson Brown wiped his brow once more and continued on picking the cotton? Even though the civil war ended in 1865, African Americans still faced an uphill battle to obtain rights that were afforded other Americans. This was in spite of the fact that 24 African American soldiers earned our Nations highest honor; the Congressional Medal of Honor, during the Civil War. Even with the passing of the 13th Amendment in 1865 banning slavery and the 14th Amendment giving African Americans citizenship and equal protection under the law, there were still so many other issues that would deprive African Americans of their lawful rights, such as having the first African American elected into the 41st Congress in 1869 continuing through 1901 with the 57th congress, which had no African Americans. This trend would continue until the election of 1929 before another African American was elected to congress. In 1873 the Supreme Court decision ruled that the 14th-Amendment guarantee of equal protection of the laws extended only to federal civil rights, thus removing southern states from the duty to protect the civil rights of African Americans, but it was just not their rights that were taken; but their lives as well. Between 1882 and the end of 1900, 1751 African Americans and 1105 white Americans were lynched for trying to further the African American cause (National). Given all of this discrimination and violence, it is hard to imagine that anyone would be willing to further the African American cause, but many stood ready to not only give of themselves, but perhaps even to give their life for this noble cause. African American writers were presented with these problems of equality and self esteem, and yet have truly transformed and continue to support a freed people, to obtain all of their rights. What follows is from three writers who each in his own way contributed mightily to the African American cause. They are W. E. B. Du Bois, Marcus Garvey, and Glen Loury. First, we have W. E. B. (William Edward Burghardt) Dubois, who was born on February 23, 1868 in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Dubois was one of the most influential black leaders of the first half of the 20th Century. Dubois shared in the founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, in 1909. He served as its director of research and editor of its magazine Crisis until 1934. He was the first African American to graduate from Harvard University, which he accomplished in 1896. At first, Dubois thought that African Americans could be freed through the Social Sciences, but quickly became disillusioned with this idea and began to believe that freedoms could only come about by agitation and protest(Chew). Dubois recognized that the African Americans of his day faced many problems, not the least of which were of the life threatening variety. After his disillusionment with helping African Americans through the social sciences, Dubois thought that African Americans needed to develop their own culture, which was definitely more American than African. Dubois enjoyed the unique African American culture, particularly that of the Negro spiritual songs. Dubois thought that African Americans should not give in to what white Americans expectations were of African Americans, but to continue to develop as a people. Dubois wrote that all people regardless of their culture, heritage, sex, should be treated as equals. Dubois also thought that African Americans should not worry about competing with the world as a group, but that they should join together to help each other. He eventually was forced to leave the United States because the government considered Dubois an agent of the Soviet Union. That is why he immigrated to Ghana, first obtaining Ghana citizenship, joined the communist party and eventually died there in 1963. Dubois was there for all future African Americans to follow his example. Dubois founding of the NAACP led to many victories for the rights of all Americans, most of which he never saw. Next we have Marcus Mosiah Garvey, who was born in Jamaica on 17 August 1887. Mr. Garvey is best remembered as a pivotal figure in the struggle for racial equality, not just in the United States but throughout the world as well. He founded the UNIA (Universal Negro Improvement Association) and African Communities League in 1914 while still in Jamaica, and also championed the back to Africa movement of the 1920s. Of the Africans who departed, Garvey thought, some had left independently while others were brutally removed for economic gain and exploitation. Garvey perceived that the main problems facing not only African Americans, but Africans as well was that they must first go back to Africa and free their African brothers before moving on to other parts of the world. Through the organizations that Garvey had formed (UNIA and ACL), he reasoned that until Africa is free and redeemed, not only in name but in reality, no one would be free, Black or White. Garvey reasoned that no matter what ones race was we are all bound together by the Creator, which is Spirit. The Creator has a purpose for everyone and that purpose did not include being made a slave or subject to anyone for that matter. While Dubois and Garvey did not see eye to eye on the issues involving African Americans, Garvey did align himself closely with Dr Robert Love, and Dr Loves teachings that a race could progress no further than the dignity and esteem of their women and younger girls. Garvey and Love thought that the best way to plant the seeds of dignity and self-esteem would be through the woman and younger girl. Last, we have Glen Loury, who was born in 1948. Mr. Loury is a professor of economics at Boston University while also being a consultant to the Federal Trade Commission. Mr. Loury has devoted a major portion of his career to the study of race and public policy. He is the author of On the Need for Moral Leadership in the Black Community, Responsibility and Race, Impact of Affirmative Action on Equal Opportunity: A New Look, and most recently A New American Dilemma. Mr. Loury saw many problems facing not only African American, but also all Americans, including the civil rights policies of 1960-1985, which seemed to have been based on equality of outcome rather than on equality of opportunity. Mr. Loury also thought that affirmative action policies created backlash. Loury maintained that all Americans should have equal rights with none being given favorable treatment over any other. Loury reasoned that it is hard to justify denying admission to an elite college to anyone who struggled to be able to pass the admissions exam; while admitting a member of a designated minority group, who did not work near as hard to earn his score and is only admitted based on his minority status. Such actions build resentment towards these policies and are only heightened when defenders of the policies claim that to question these policies is to engage in a racist act. Mr. Loury contends that giving preferential treatment with no sound explanation only led to more heightened tensions and is a very grievous error on the part of those who merely wish to be advocates of affirmative action. Loury did see, that there was a proper use of affirmative action, such as on police forces around the country that had a significant percentage of African American citizens and yet none on the police force. These Authors present their own conclusions and reasonings for what happened to the African Americans previous to, and of their own time. These writers used the influences of other African Americans and were also pioneers themselves. All of these writers believed in equality for everyone and thus did share at least one common goal. In Mr. Dubois we have a writer and scholar who originally thought that through a study of Social Sciences and doing what was right could African Americans receive their rights, and yet Dubois was able to refocus and remain firm in his opinions of helping each other and thus able to help not only the African Americans of his generation, but the ones to follow as well. Mr. Dubois saw all of the problems besetting African Americans and knew that they must unite, working together, to build a culture of their own, that would allow all African Americans to have a better life. Mr. Garvey on the other hand, perceived that until the rights and freedoms were restored in the entire African continent, Africans elsewhere would always be treated as second-class citizens. Garvey along with Dr Robert Love, thought that it was through the African women, especially the younger women, that Africans had a chance to make a difference in providing a better future. Mr. Loury saw problems that came about because of the Civil Rights movement, and that African Americans should not merely rely on being a minority to get ahead in life, but instead grab the opportunity that was before them so as not to create a political backlash. Each of these writers have stood their ground for what they believe in, and our world we live in today is better for it. Each of these writers, in their own time, helped frame not just African Americans lives but has truly transformed and continues to support a freed people, obtain all, of their rights. Works Cited Chew, Robin W. E. B. Dubois Sociologist, Author Civil Rights Leader 1868 ? 1963 February 26, 2005. 6 Feb 2006 Dr Coony, Mark Race and Affirmative Action 6 Feb 2006 Du Bois, W. E. B. Of our Spiritual Strivings. Cultural Conversations The Presence of the Past. Ed Stephen Dilks, et al. Boston: Bedford/St Martin, 2001. 131-145 Garvey, Marcus Motive of the NAACP Exposed Cultural Conversations The Presence of the Past. Ed Stephen Dilks, et al. Boston: Bedford/St Martin, 2001. 153-154 Loury, Glenn. Free at Last? A Personal Perspective on Race ad Identity in America. Cultural Conversations The Presence of the Past. Ed Stephen Dilks, et al. Boston: Bedford/St Martin, 2001. 173-180 Marcus Garvey Biography November 2000, K. W. Spence-Lewis Consultant Researcher Community Health and Planning Plant Science. The Making of African American Identity VOL II 1863-1917 National Humanities Center 6 Feb 06 Bibliography Chew, Robin W. E. B. Dubois Sociologist, Author Civil Rights Leader 1868 ? 1963 February 26, 2005. 6 Feb 2006 Dr Coony, Mark Race and Affirmative Action 6 Feb 2006 Du Bois, W. E. B. Of our Spiritual Strivings. Cultural Conversations The Presence of the Past. Ed Stephen Dilks, et al. Boston: Bedford/St Martin, 2001. 131-145 Garvey, Marcus Motive of the NAACP Exposed Cultural Conversations The Presence of the Past. Ed Stephen Dilks, et al. Boston: Bedford/St Martin, 2001. 153-154 Loury, Glenn. Free at Last? A Personal Perspective on Race ad Identity in America. Cultural Conversations The Presence of the Past. Ed Stephen Dilks, et al. Boston: Bedford/St Martin, 2001. 173-180 Marcus Garvey Biography November 2000, K. W. Spence-Lewis Consultant Researcher Community Health and Planning Plant Science. The Making of African American Identity VOL II 1863-1917 National Humanities Center 6 Feb 06.

Styrene production plant

Styrene production plant Project Process Project Definition The aim of this paper was to design a styrene plant that produces 30,000 kg/h of styrene using the catalytic dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene (EB). This report determined whether the dehydrogenation of EB is an effective (both chemically and economically) and viable method of producing styrene. The paper sought to determine this by analysing the production process, cost of the building and running a styrene plant, and the chemistry involved. Process Description Incident Review Materials Hazard Data Raw Materials, Intermediates, Products By-Products Ethylbenzene is harmful, a flammable liquid and is a severe eye irritant. It is the reactant used in the main process of the plant. It dehydrogenates to form styrene as the main reaction, but other side reactions form toluene and benzene. This chemical would cause problems with fires on site. ethylbenzene should be kept away from the other flammable materials in process, to avoid the risk of fire. Styrene is a flammable liquid, mildly toxic, harmful when inhaled ( for example it may cause headache, nausea, dizziness, muscle weakness; produces central nervous system depression; irritates nose, lungs and throat.), and it moderates irritation to eyes and skin. Styrene is confirmed as a carcinogen. It should be produced by the dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene. This chemical can produce major injuries if a fire starts on site. The best condition for this chemical to be stored is on site for as short a time as possible, before being transported away by the tanker. Due styrene is flammable liquid it should be stored away from any other flammable substances such as ethylbenzene, toluene and extra care should be taken to inform the fire services of the danger, to ensure it is dealt with it promptly and properly. Pressure can build in component and they need to be checked for weakened points. Toluene is very flammable, can cause irritation to skin and is harmful if inhaled. It is formed as one of the side reactions in the reactor, when styrene reacts with the hydrogen formed. Loss of containment would cause problems, due to the additional fire risk. The chemical should be kept away from flammable chemicals. Benzene can cause cancer, is toxic, very flammable, irritating to eyes and skin. It is harmful for example it can cause lung damage if swallowed. Benzene is formed in the process by the reaction of ethylbenzene and hydrogen. Benzene is the most violent chemical in this process. Loss of containment could have very serious off-site effects. Cleaning up of any spills would be a problem, and extra care must be taken into account to ensure that people are trained to do so, as this chemical can destroy the environment. Effluents Steam is used as a power in order to keep the reaction going, and thus does not participate in any chemical reaction itself. It is not toxic, however large amount are required, and care must be taken that this water is taken from a suitable source. The water is reusable in this process. The risk of loss of containment depends greatly on the pressure of the steam, excluding the temperature, it should be relatively low risk. Emissions from other facilities This would need to be completed when it is known what is being released by facilities near by. Support Materials KOH is corrosive and harmful if swallowed. It catalysts the dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene and reduces the energy required for this reaction. Fe2O3 is non toxic, has no risk to it and should not be considered as a hazardous chemical. It is used as part of the catalyst for the main reaction of dehydration of ethylbenzene. Loss of containment shouldnt cause many problems, and neither should storage or transport. There are no special handling problems with this chemical. Tertiary butyl catchol is toxic to aquatic organisms, can cause skin sensitisation and is an irritant. It lowers the amount of tars the styrene forms from polymerisation. Disposal of this substance would be difficult, and care must be taken to dispose of it in a way that is safe for aquatic organisms. Relatively small amounts of it are needed, as it is just an addition to the styrene, and doesnt take part in any of the main reaction. Services The services required for this chemical plant are fresh water, electricity and gas. Some of the gas will be provided in the plant itself by the combustion of the light reaction products, but gas will still be provided. Principal Materials of Construction Materials encountered during construction/demolition i. Important physical and chemical properties ii. Significant chemical reactions iii. Materials toxic, reactive or severe Environmental impact iv. Estimates of inventory v. Off site effects of Loss of Containment vi. Means of handling and storage vii. Special handling problems Environmental Aspects Environmental Impact Statement: As chemical engineers; it is our duty to ensure that pollution is kept to a minimum where safety of the environment and natural habitats are key priorities by safe and appropriate means of containment and disposal of all waste and effluents involved in the manufacture of styrene. Other Environmental Considerations: The following identifies how the product (styrene) is going to be stored, controlled and monitored: Product: Styrene Problem/Harm to environment: Mildly toxic, flammable, irritive to eye, inhalation may cause headache, nausea and dizziness. Means of Containment: As table 1 indicates; styrene would be best stored in Ny nylon, PE polyethylene, SS stainless steel or TF- Teflon containers. A thick container of this material would be most appropriate to store styrene as it offers â€Å"only slight changes in mass or dimensions† of styrene. Hirst (2002, p.90). Controlling and Monitoring: when exposed to styrene, wear protective clothing such as long overalls and thick appropriate gloves to avoid direct contact with the product. Additional safety precautions: o All clothes which have been in contact with product should be washed and rinsed immediately. o Air ventilates in all rooms to remove any harmful vapour. This table identifies all by products and wastes produced during the manufacture of styrene and offers reasonable solutions as to how they can be disposed of: Health Toxicology Occupational Health Statement Statutory exposure limits   Specific Requirements for Design Transport And Siting Possible Modes Of Transport For Styrene Production: By Road By Rail   By Ferry Transport Stages Due to the hazardous nature of the materials that we are going to be handling in order to produce styrene we have to undergo various safety precautions whilst transporting the materials. Because of the flammability hazard (in certain circumstances) and the unpleasant smell, all loading/unloading activities should preferably be carried out, having regard to the prevention of the ignition sources and styrene vapour emissions in the working area. An inspection of the transport equipment should be carried out by the loading terminal staff before, during and after loading. The inspection list detailed inAppendix 5is recommended for use. Previous Cargoes And Cleanliness A tank that carries Styrene Monomer should not have carried the following substances as any of the last two cargoes:  § Caustic soda  § Pyrolysis gasoline  § Fuel oils  § Lube oils Tanks to be loaded with Styrene Monomer should not be cleaned with materials which are reactive with Styrene Monomer or TBC, or cause increased colour, odour or a chloride problem. Salt water should never be the last wash because of possible chloride contamination. Because of the effect of the application of heat to styrene, steam cleaning of adjacent tanks to compartments which contain styrene or styrene residues is strictly not allowed. Facilities using styrene should have developed and implemented a comprehensive spill prevention and emergency response plan. This plan should address: 1. Spill detection methods, 2. Emergency notification procedures, 3. Community contacts for notification and advice on evacuation needs, 4. Fire prevention and protection, 5. Provisions for spill containment/clean-up, 6. Environmental protection, 7. Compliance with applicable local regulations or laws. Effect of Loss of Containment on Occupied Buildings Potential Effect From Existing Plants Iit is only slightly soluble in water (approx. 300 ppm at ambient conditions) and consequently the acute hazard of spilled styrene will be very limited for most aquatic species. However styrene may cause tainting (unpleasant taste) in food from aquatic organisms exposed to low environmental concentrations. According to the Standard European Behaviour Classification (Bonn Agreement) styrene is classified as a â€Å"floater evaporator†. Styrene is a monocyclic alkenyl aromatic compound with a molecular weight of 104. Being rather volatile and having a flash point of 32 oC, styrene is classified as a flammable substance, which in use may form flammable/explosive vapour-air mixtures. Despite its high boiling point, styrene will eventually end up in the air. Short-term exposure to styrene in humans results in respiratory effects, such as throat irritation and lung constriction, irritation to the eyes, and neurological effects such as dizziness (see Section 3 â€Å"Health Aspects† for more details). To date styrene is classified in the EU as harmful by inhalation, irritating to the eyes and to the skin Very low concentrations of styrene vapour will react with bromine and with chlorine in sunlight to form an extremely potent lachrymatory agent. (causes tears to form, irritation and can even lead to blindness!!!) Conformance With Company Policies Company policies concerning Health, Safety and the Environment: 1. Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the premises; both indoors and outdoors and in any other enclosed spaces. Smoking is only permitted in a specified location at a safe distance from the facility and all equipment. 2. Food and drink should only be consumed in dining areas and all employees must thoroughly wash their hands prior to handling food. 3. Fire extinguishers must be present in all parts of the premises. One should be in every room/corridor or other separated enclosure. It must be clearly visible and accessible. All Employees must be fully trained in their operation. 4. Fire alarms must be present in all rooms/corridors and must be clearly signed and accessible at all times. 5. All workers should not lift any objects which they are physically uncomfortable with lifting. They must ask for assistance during any moving process and movement of chemicals/other hazardous materials should always be supervised. 6. Where necessary, workers must wear suitable physical protection. This includes hard hat, coat, gloves, goggles etc. Protection guidelines should be available in all processing areas and must be clear and visible. 7. All materials presenting potential health risks must be carefully and properly contained. This should be checked prior to and after moving, and at least once daily. 8. All equipment must be maintained properly and regularly to the manufacturers guidelines. This must be carried out by someone qualified to do so and must be supervised. 9. Equipment involving high temperatures and pressures must be located at a safe distance from all areas largely populated by employees. 10. Equipment conditions (temperature, pressure, flow rate etc) must be consistently monitored and alarms must be in place to detect loss of control. 11. Controls must be capable of complete shutdown and isolation of any and all equipment and pipes. 12. Emissions must be carefully controlled and must fall within limits set by the Environmental Health Agency. 13. All the above policies must be reviewed monthly to ensure there are being upheld consistently. This must be carried out by an external professional. The styrene plant will adhere to all the policies set out above and all the policies will be considered and incorporated into the design of the plant to ensure they can be consistently and efficiently met. Consent Levels And Safety, Health And Environmental Protection Criteria Environment Exact sizing of the plant is yet to be studied, but based on a plant in Somerville Rd Brooklyn in Melbourne owned by Huntsman Chemical Company of Australia Pty Ltd, it is likely to be approximately 40 hectares (400 km2). Depending on the proximity to civilisation, this area may increase to create a safe perimeter. Wildlife will be affected by this development and so study needs to be done into the location of the site and habitation. Some wildlife may equally be a potential hazard to the operation of the plant itself.   Noise The exposure limit values are a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 87 dB; and a peak sound pressure of 140 dB. Study therefore needs to be done to investigate the level of noise produced by the machines that will operate in this plant. Health Effects As described in section 2, many of the materials involved present risks to health. All outputs in the liquid phase are irritants and some are known carcinogens. Several of the gaseous outputs are asphyxiates and flammable. The following emission controls are enforced by law (time weighted average): Ethylbenzene: TWA: 100 STEL: 125 (ppm) [United Kingdom (UK)] Benzene: TWA: 1.6 (mg/m3) [United Kingdom (UK)] Styrene: Long-term exposure limit (8-hour TWA limit reference period) 430 mg.m-3 8.4 Personal Safety Criteria Noise workers should be provided with noise protection when noise levels exceed the noise exposure limit stated above. Emissions In places of the plant where there is gaseous output, workers should be provided with dust respirators or gas masks where necessary. All workers must be given training on identifying gas leaks and emergency procedures. Machinery Workers should be provided with personal protection when working with machinery or handling equipment. This includes gloves, hard hat, protective boots and visibility jackets. Workers should be trained not to lift any heavy or dangerous material. Organisational, Human Factors Emergency Requirements   Suitability and Availability of Staff New systems of Work and Procedures Site Emergency Facilities and Roles/Responsibilities Facilities for peak construction staffing Sustainability   Environmental Responsibility The EU authorities have concluded that styrene is not bio-accumulative and meets the ready biodegradation criteria of the 29th Adaptation to Technical Progress of the Dangerous Substances Directive. The European Environmental Risk Assessment of styrene has concluded that no classification is needed. Persistence of Styrene in the environment is very limited because of its volatility from soils and surface waters, its rapid destruction in air and its biodegradation in soils, and surface and ground waters. Styrene is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms. Due to its high depletion rate from water the exposure rate may be very low. More details on Styrene environmental effects can be found in Section 4â€Å"Environmental Aspects†. What happens when styrene enters the environment For the most part, inert products such as plastic parts, packaging etc. introduce styrene into the environment through the manufacture and disposal processes with evidence of styrene contamination being found in air, water and ground soils. However, in unlinked liquid form it enters the environment quickly and in larger quantities through evaporation and is also further broken down by bacteria found in water and soils allowing further rapid entry. It is not expected to enter the food chain by grazing animals. How does it affect humans Surprisingly, for a fairly commonly used industrial product, little is known about the effects of styrene on us, what we do know to date is that although exposure may not lead to any symptoms at all, breathing high levels of styrene for short periods can lead to possible respiratory problems and nervous system effects such as depression, tiredness, nausea, muscle weakness, ENT irritation. There is currently no test data on the effects of breathing low levels for a long time, nor is any data available on the effects of ingestion or absorption although animal studies revealed various symptoms such as damage to the brain, kidneys, liver and lung along with some reproductive effects. The International Agency for Research on Cancer and the Environmental Protection Agency has also now determined that styrene could be a possible carcinogen to humans in airborne form and several studies of workers have shown that breathing styrene may cause leukemia. There is no current evidence to support any cancer or health risks for ï ¬ nal ï ¬ nished products containing styrene where skin contact or ingestion has occurred. Clearly, styrene is a toxic, dangerous product in its raw form. It ï ¬ nds its way into the market in either solid form e.g. plastic parts, packing etc. or in liquid form. It is not harmful to humans in its inert solid form although it is harmful to the environment if not disposed of correctly. It is harmful to humans in liquid form both as a ï ¬ nished product and during manufacture. WEALTH CREATION: The process of producing styrene on a large scale has a major benefit particularily on the local population surrounding the styrene plant as there is a great number of jobs that are created for people. The local community can therefore take advantage of this and unemployment levels in the local area should plummet. The general wealth of the community will in turn increase and so the plant is in effect responsible for the local area becoming more prosperous financially. Social Development Further Studies Further Studies would have to be conducted in the following area to assure the construction of the plant is safe and feasible: Wildlife in the local area Affect any emissions/noise might have. Local community whether the local community would be content with a styrene production plant in the area Noise produced by plant equipment Emissions of Benzene, Ethylbenzene, and Methylbenzene produced by the plants after reduction methods are complete. These gases are hazardous and have exposure limits which must be met. Emergency procedures and effects of plant layout

Examining Whole Life Costing Construction Essay

Examining Whole Life Costing Construction Essay Whole life costing (WLC) can contribute significantly to control the financial and non-financial risks objectives of many construction, and construction organisations. This is especially relevant in terms of customer service, internal business processes, and financial performance. WLC is changing the approach to design, procurement, construction and facilities management and delivering major benefits. Many public and private sector clients now procure on cost of ownership, not capital cost. (Your development, 2008) There is a growing awareness that unplanned and unexpected maintenance and refurbishment costs may amount to half of all money spent on existing buildings, according to the Building Research Establishment. Estimates of the value of the unplanned portion in UK construction output range from  £8bn to a staggering  £20bn a year. This is why whole-life costing (WLC) is beginning to play a crucial role in project management (Bourke, 2005). This time, however, lifecycle cost ing/Whole life cycle costing is here to stay, for two reasons PFI and global warming. PFI has made it the basis of the commercial agreement between the client and the provider and global warming has made everybody think about the future impact of decisions to build. (Martin, 2008) Some of the ideas behind the justification for whole life-cycle costing (WLCC) are synonymous with key issues in todays construction industry. (Boussabaine, A., Kirkham, R.2004) Meeting clients expectations Clients now require buildings that are efficient during and after construction. WLCC techniques can demonstrate real cost savings in design solutions. Sustainability Achieving sustainable design solutions relies on the consideration of long term operational costs and performance of building components. Monitoring performance of constructed assets For example, are PFI/PPP (Private Finance Initiative / Public Private Partnerships) projects really cost effective? Only by considering the whole life costs can this be assessed. Using WLLC also supports benchmarking and key performance indicators. Monitoring cost effectiveness of constructed assets WLCC provides the means by which to constantly review this and base future capital investment on this information. Lean construction By considering long term cost and physical performance, waste is minimised both during construction and through the life of the building. The UK government has challenged the way its organisations deliver services, and has placed on them a duty to continuously improve in order to provide the services that people require economically, efficiently and effectively. This concept of best value has dominated public sector capital investment policy in the UK since the 1990s. (Boussabaine, A., Kirkham, R.2004) As a result of the fundamental revisions in public procurement policy that have subsequently taken place, interest in and demand for the use of WLCC techniques have risen to unprecedented levels. These policy changes are clearly demonstrated in recent government publications such as Construction Procurement Guidance, No 7 Whole Life Costs (Office of Government Commerce), which states that all procurement must be made solely on the basis of value for money in terms of the optimum combination of whole life costs and quality to meet the users requirements. This view is fully endorsed by National Audit Office (NAO) policy an d reinforced in their joint guide Getting value for money from procurement. How auditors can help. Consequently the award of public construction contracts based on simply the lowest capital cost bid is no longer recognised as good practice; best value must be taken into account and thereby WLCC should be fully appraised as part of the decision making process. (Boussabaine, A., Kirkham, R.2004) 2.2 HISTORY OF WHOLE LIFE COSTING Figure 2.1 History of whole life costing, Source (Boussabaine, A., Kirkham, R.2004) According to Ashworth (2008) during the 1960s it was often referred to as costs-in-use, although strictly speaking this term excluded anything to do with initial construction costs. In the 1970s, life cycle costing became the commonly accepted terminology but by the end of the century this had been replaced with whole life costing and this is the description under which it is now most commonly referred. 2.3 DEFINITION OF WHOLE LIFE COSTING The New construction research and innovation Strategy Panel (nCRISP) defines WLC as the systematic consideration of all relevant costs and revenues associated with the acquisition and ownership of an asset. (Constructing Excellence in the building environment, 2009) At its most basic, WLC includes the systematic consideration of all costs and revenues associated with the acquisition, use and maintenance and disposal of an asset. Ashworth (2004), Seely (1997), Ashworth and Hogg (2007), Cartlidge (2008) and Ferry and Flanagan (1991); according to BS ISO 15686, WLC can be defined as: a tool to assist in assessing the cost performance of construction work, aimed at facilitating choices where there are alternative means of achieving the clients objectives and where those alternatives differ, not only in their initial costs but also in their subsequent operational costs. Whole life appraisal (costing) is not the universal panacea for the construction sector, but properly understood and used it is a useful and powerful tool. (Flanagan, R., Jewell, C., 2005) Figure 2.2 The hidden costs, Source (Ellingham, I., and Fawcett, W.,2006) While initial costs are clear and visible at an early stage, longer-term costs are not see Figure 2.2. Nevertheless, these longer-term costs can far outweigh initial capital costs, and should have a much stronger influence on decisions with respect to facilities and individual elements Figure 2.3 Whole life cost, Source (Calford seaden, 2009) The sequence of the seven phases of a buildings life is described appropriately in British Standard 3811. Whole life phases Description Associated costs Specification The formulation of the clients Initial costsassociated with land purchase, professional fees and construction. Requirements at inception and briefing. Feasibility and viability of different proposals Design Translating ideas into working drawings Cost planning including whole life costing of alternative design solutions from outline proposals scheme and detail Deign Associated contract procurement documentation Installation The construction process Interim payments and financial statements Commissioning Handover of the project to the client Final accounts Maintenance The project in use Recurring costs associated with repairs, running and replacement items Modification Alterations and modifications necessary to keep the project to a good standard Costs associated with major refurbishment items Replacement Evaluation of the project for major changes or the site for redevelopment Redevelopment costs Table 2.1 Whole life phases (Ashworth.A, 2008) 2.4 WHY RISK ASSESSMENT IN WHOLE LIFE COSTING Combined with WLCC, risk assessment should from a major element in the strategic decision making process during project procurement and also in value analysis. Project cost, design and operational decision parameters are often established very early in the life of a given building project. Often, these parameters are chosen based on owners and project teams personal experiences. While these approaches are common, they do not provide a robust framework for dealing with the risks and decisions that are taken in the evaluation process. Nor do they allow for a systematic evaluation of all the parameters that are considered important in the examination of the WLCC aspect of a project. Capital costs and future costs must be quantified, analysed and presented as part of the strategic decision making process in todays business environment. Cost analysis and value analysis techniques are used to quantify and assess the economic implications of investment in building facilities in general. Whi le these techniques do provide a basis for making project cost decisions, they most often do not account for many of the parameters which may affect the actual project value or cost (Plenty et al.1999). Risk assessment should be an integral part of the WLCC process. A framework that uses formal decision making processes and risk assessment of each aspect of the decision to be taken in performing WLCC life cycle analysis can help owners, design teams and cost planners in marking strategic decisions based on analysis results that truly the inherent risks and costs related to the project. 2.5 DATA REQUIREMENTS IN WHOLE LIFE CYCLE COSTING AND RISK ASSESSMENT Flanagan and Norman (1983) highlighted three fundamental requirements in successfully implementing a life cycle costing methodology. A system by which the technologies can be used: a set of rule and procedures. Data for the proposed project under consideration: estimates of initial and running costs of elemental life cycles, discount rates, inflation indices, periods of occupancy, energy consumption, cleaning and the like. The data required to carry out WLCC analysis can be derived from a range of possible source Direct estimation from know costs and components Historical data from typical applications Models based on expected performance, average, etc. Best guesses of the future trends in technology, marking application Professional skill and judgement. All these factors have some bearing on the quality of data that is collected and how it is used in modelling and decision making processes. Whilst WLCC is now becoming widely used as a valuable tool in the design process, probably two key factors have undersized its potential impact A suspicion that life cycle cost estimates are in some sense inaccurate or based merely on guesswork The absence of sufficient and appropriate cost and performance data. 2.5.1 Data sources It has been highlighted how important the data and its composition are to WLCC, but where can this data be obtained? Ferry and Brandon (1991) highlighted six main outputs: Technical press Builders price books Information services such as the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS) Government research literature such as from the National Economic Development Office (NEDO) University research Technical information services. Flanagan and Norman (1983) defined these into four subgroups: Manufacturers data Suppliers and contractors Modelling techniques Historical data Manufacturers data These specialists as a rule will have detailed breakdowns of the life cycle of the product, its material components and its performance characteristics. This data can also be obtained from other authorities that are responsible for testing the integrity and material for construction. The British Board of Agreement is a UK government testing body which carries out independent testing of materials used in the industry. Materials that meet a set specification and performance are issued with agreement certificates, which give details on service lives and other critical information. The Building Research Establishment also carries out testing on materials and can be a useful source of information. 2.5.3 Forecasts from models In the absence of any historical or suppliers data / feedback, models can be used as a way to analyse the WLCC implications of particular design decisions or choices of materials. The concept behind modelling is to facilitate and introduce a higher degree of accuracy in the estimates made by cost analysts when drawing up life cycle cost profiles. Historical data Historical data can be obtained from a variety of sources such as the BMCIS, clients and building occupies and in some cases the design team themselves. The value of historical data is relevant in that the values of initial capital cost and subsequent running cost can be categorised for certain groups of element in the building and this comparison can then be used to identify the elements which will benefit from a life cycle cost approach. 2.6 COMPONENTS OF A WHOLE LIFE COST ANALYSIS Figure 2.4 Components of a whole life cost analysis, Source (Boussabaine, A., Kirkham, R.2004) 2.6.1 Service life The prediction of component service life is a very important aspect in WLCC assessment. One such methodology currently in use is the factor method. The ISO/CD 15686-1 factor method for the estimation of the service life of components or assembly under specific conditions treats the service life as a deterministic value. In reality the service life has a big scatter and should be treated as a stochastic quantity. 2.6.2 Capital costs Returns on invested capital costs are essential in marking decisions on investment scenarios. Minimum capital commitment would be required if the client wanted to bear most of the cost until the building was handed over. In the event of limited capital budget is the prime consideration of the client, quality, in the form of a reduced specification, is like to be restricted. (Ashworth and Hogg, 2002, p.192).Further the cost of the project is a combination of land ,construction ,fees and finance and the employer will need to balance these against the various procurement systems available (Ashworth,1997,p.107). The capital cost objectives that need to be assessed include. Land acquisition cost. The location, and land viability may have a direct effect on the whole life cost and life expectancy of a facility. Predesign costs. The amounts of time and quality of information generated at this stage have great consequences on the quality and operation of a facility. The investors have a good opportunity to optimise the whole life cost of a facility through the selection of component and functional flexibility. Ideally, the issues relating to obsolescence should be investigated, accounted for as costs at this stage. Design costs. The quality of design in terms of error, detailing and buildability will have a direct effect on the cost of production and operation. A high quality building might also require higher costs in use in order to maintain its high aesthetic quality in use (Ashworth and Hogg, 2000) Development and production costs. The quality of workmanship is directly related to the level of maintenance. It is important to ensure that quality control is in place to ensure sound construction practices are used. Fees Risk costs Financial costs, tax, interest, etc. 2.6.3 Operational costs Operational costs are less certain as the time span increases due to uncertainties in energy costs, maintenance, fees, staff and regulatory changes. It is important to view operational cost estimates in their holistic state; several qualitative factors will have an important effect on the total operational costs. The operational cost objectives that need to be assessed include; Factors which contribute significantly to the total operational costs Optimum balance between capital and operational costs Operational risk management systems Optimum asset cleaning procedures Optimum waste management procedures Optimum utilities management procedures Optimum staffing level Minimum disruption due to denial use of the asset. 2.6.4 Maintenance costs The costs and priority of required maintenance, rehabilitation and replacement can be obtained from historical data but base cost estimates have to be supplemented with expert opinions in order to perform whole life cycle analysis and risk assessment. The maintenance cost objectives that need to be assessed include. Performance indicators for the assessment of maintenance costs Remaining service life of facility components Frequency and replacement costs In house or subcontracted maintenance Selection of exterior and interior materials and surfaces Selection of light fixtures with minimum routine repair and replacement requirements. Type of preventive maintenance programme. 2.6.5 Financing costs and revenues The objective here is to deal with WLCC input parameters of discount, inflation rates, taxes, expenses, etc. Critical analysis of investments must include both initial and ongoing costs and returns over the period of the investment. This will allow stakeholders to compare different options and decide which offers the best return for the investment. Usually discount rate is used for computing the value of future revenues. This includes a large degree of risk return. For example, if the discount rate is set too high or too low then future costs may appear insignificant; this could result in high operational costs and capital costs, which will discourage investment. Also, if inflation is different from the selected rates this may lead to inappropriate investment choices. The financing cost objectives that need to be assessed include assumptions about: Inflation rates, interest and taxes Level of returns and risks Optimum discount rate Economic activity. This has a direct on the economic obsolescence of facilities. Level of risk financing Cash inflow versus outflows Different rates, time periods and cash flows. The characteristics of new or existing facilities are very important aspect of WLCC computation. For the example a relationship may exist between building function and mechanical service costs, a particularly important feature of modern facilities. Little research has been published with regard to the impact of building characteristics on WLCC. 2.6.6 Asset characteristics The characteristics of new or existing facilities are very important aspect of WLCC computation. For the example a relationship may exist between building function and mechanical service costs, a particularly important feature of modern facilities. Little research has been published with regard to the impact of building characteristics on WLCC. Experience shows that an indirect link exists through many aspects, including energy, thus increasing WLCC and possible downtime costs in maintenance. The characteristics that should be assessed and included in the computation of WLCC include. Layout and location Functionality Construction technology Gross floor area Number of storeys and storeys height Glazing area Occupancy (m2/person) Shape of the facility Aesthetics Energy saving measures Quality of components Type and quality of public health system Type and quality of superstructure building fabric Type and quality of internal fabric Type and quality of electrical and mechanical services Extent of site works 2.6.6 Economic performance measures The procurement of building facilities involves a variety of decision making who decide on alternatives that generate capital and ongoing costs during a projects life. These capital costs generative value for different stakeholders and potential for returns to the project owner which should be durable over the life cycle of the asset. Therefore ,economic performance measurement in WLCC is very important for decision making to evaluate and allocate identifiable value from capital cost and continuing costs to relevant stakeholders in the life cycle of a facility. The objective that should be assessed under this heading should include. What type of performance indicators should be used to aid in the selection of alternatives The boundaries of these indicators, i.e. minimum and maximum values that the stakeholders are prepared to work to The best measures of performance in terms of WLCC outputs Mechanisms for WLCC benchmarking Measures for mitigating economic risks. 2.7 USE OF WHOLE LIFE COSTING Ferry and Flanagan (1991) argue that application of WLC, in any environment, exists on two levels. The lower level of life cycle costing is represented as a Management Tool to aid the decision making process. The higher level of life cycle costing is termed the Management System whose continuous operation dictates that responsibility for asset management should be retained. In general terms, they argue that during the management of a typical project, all stages, except project initiation, have a potential use for WLC. Whole life costing as a decision-making tool The primary use of WLC is to be used in the effective choice between a number of competing project alternatives. Although this can be done at any stage of the project, the potential of its effective use is Maximum during early design stages. In addition, the ability to influence cost decreases continually as the project progresses, from 100% at project sanction to typically 20% or less by the time construction starts. Furthermore, once the building is delivered, there is a very slim chance to change the total cost of ownership because the decision to own or to purchase a building normally commits users to most of the total cost of ownership. According to Kirk Al-Hajj ( 2004), 80-90% percent of the cost of running, maintaining and repairing a building is determined at the design stage. Figure 2.5 the relationship between whole life cost savings and time of implementation (Source- Al-Hajj,A.,Pollock,R.,Kishk,M.,Aouad,G.,Sun,M.andBakis,N,2004) Whole life costing as a management tool WLC can also be used as a management tool to identify the actual costs incurred in operating assets. The primary objective is to relate running costs and performance data. Thus, it could be useful for clients who want to estimate the actual running costs of the building and also for budgeting purposes. In addition, it can be a valuable feedback device to assist in the design (Al-Hajj,A.,Pollock,R.,Kishk,M.,Aouad,G.,Sun,M.andBakis,N,2004) BARRIERS TO SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF WHOLE LIFE COSTING TECHNIQUES 2.8.1 Industry barriers The capital cost of construction is almost always separated from the running cost. It is normal practice to accept the cheapest initial cost and then hand over the building to others to maintain. In addition, there is no clear definition of the buyer, seller, and their responsibilities towards the operating and maintenance costs (Bull 1993). Furthermore, there is a lack of motivation in cost optimisation because the design and cost estimating fees are usually a percentage of the total project cost. However, the expansion of new project delivery systems such as private finance initiative (PFI) and build operate and transfer (BOT) seems to overcome these obstacles 2.8.2 Client barriers Bull (1993) pointed out that there is also a lack of understanding on the part of the client. This may increase the possibility of subjective decision making. In addition, there are usually multiple aspects of needs desired by clients. Most of these aspects cannot be assessed in a strict WLC framework. This is mainly because either they are in conflict with the main WLC objective or because they are mostly non-financial. Some of these factors are even intangible such as aesthetics. In many cases, these intangibles are also in conflict with results of WLC (Picken 1989; Wilkinson 1996). Analysis difficulties The major obstacle facing the analyst is the difficulty of obtaining the proper level of information upon which to base a WLC analysis. This is because of the lack of appropriate, relevant and reliable historical information and data (Bull 1993). In addition, costs of data collection are enormous (Ferry and Flanagan 1991). Furthermore, the time needed for data collection and the analysis process may leave inadequate time for the essential dialogue with the decision-maker and the re-run of alternative options. This is one of the reasons why computerised models are valuable. Another difficulty is the need to be able to forecast, a long way ahead in time, many factors such as life cycles, future operating and maintenance costs, and discount and inflation rates (Ferry and Flanagan 1991). Besides, the uncertainty surrounding the variables in any WLC exercise should be properly assessed (Al-Hajj,A.,Pollock,R.,Kishk,M.,Aouad,G.,Sun,M.andBakis,N,2004) PRODUCING COSTS WHAT NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERED? Before any evaluation of the projects whole life cycle costs can be made, the following factors need careful identification. Overall time scale of the building or element i.e. the life cycle; Statement of all costs and revenues attributable by disposal time; The design lives of the various components and equipment so that any calculation can include for replacements and repairs at appropriate times; Obsolescence where changes in technology, land values, working styles make the economic life of the building shorter than the planned design use; Tax implications allowances for certain items of plant and equipment can be offset against tax, thereby reducing their costs to the building owner; The time value of money (discounting) which incorporates allowances for interest and can consider inflation (iii) are relatively easy to calculate; (iv) (vi) are much more unpredictable as they tend to be guesses. From these elements come the typical WLC/LCC approach; STEP 1 establish the objective of the calculation STEP 2 choice of costing method STEP 3 formulate assumptions from list above STEP 4 identify the costs and the life cycle STEP 5 compare alternative solutions and rank STEP 6 sensitivity analysis (technique whereby costs revisited to identify items likely to change and the impact of those changes) STEP 7 report costs to client WHOLE LIFE COST / SUSTAINABILITY Contractors, particularly those involved with public private partnerships are recognising the importance of sustainability issues and the early consideration of whole life cost. The process of getting the minimum whole life cost and environmental impact is so complex, being a three dimensional problem as indicated below. Figure 2.6 Whole life cost considerations, Source (Cartidge, 2006) Each design option will have associated impacts and costs, and trade-offs have to be made between apparently unrelated entities Environmental value. This focuses on environmental aspects of development such as pollution, waste and CO2 emissions. These issues involve the initial manufacture of construction materials, the construction of the project, its use and eventual replacement. In this context value is maximised when environmental pressures are minimised to the level of the carrying capacity of ecological systems while using natural resources effectively and safeguarding natural capital and its productivity.

Ancient Surgery :: World History

Ancient Surgery The most important and influential discovery was the practice of surgery. With this invention, human life became more sophisticated, humans lived longer, and we obtained a knowledge of ourselves sufficient enough to break the boundaries built by ignorance. Lacking prescription drugs, accurate tools, computer technology, and any background experience to build from, our ancestors struggled to learn how to repair the human body. They did an suprisingly competent job of treating the sick and injured. Some of the medical technology developed in ancient times surpassed anything available in the modern world until the 18th century or 19th century. In eras wherein religious views took precedence over medicine and logic, surgical advancement was difficult. The knowledge we have now was obtained from these people's exploits. The first known medical procedure is called trephination. Trephination is the cutting of a hole through one's skull to relive excess pressure. This dates back to as early as the Stone Age, around 3,000 BC. Unearthed remains of successful brain operations, as well as surgical instruments, were found in France at one of Europe's noted archeological digs. The success rate was remarkable, even around 7,000 BC. Skulls have been found from about 8,000 BC with these telltale holes, most of which are exact and show growth, meaning that patients often lived for weeks, even months, afterwards . Pre-historic evidence of brain surgery was not limited to Europe. Early Incan civilization used brain surgery as an extensive practice as early as 2,000 BC. In Paracas, Peru, archeological evidence indicates that brain surgery was used frequently. Here, too, an inordinate success rate was noted as patients were restored to health. The treatment was used to treat mental illnesses they blamed on evil spir its, epilepsy, headaches, and osteomylitis, as well as head injuries. Brain surgery was also used for both spiritual and magical reasons; often, the practice was limited to kings, priests and the nobility. Surgical tools in South America were made of both bronze and carved obsidian. The Akkadians used trephination thousands of years later for the same purposes, and the practice was improved until it reached the state of today. The Akkadians learned from experience with surgery. There were no books or documentations of previous procedures, so the trade was passed down through hands on, personal training. The Code of Hamurabi states that surgeons of the Akkadian era were well paid, but a failure was expensive.

Wind Power Essay -- Renewable Energy Environment Global Warming

Wind Power: Nature’s Gift Wind power is a clean and renewable energy that, while at times unreliable, has very low upkeep cost and is growing at a rapid rate. While there is currently enough wind power to provide many times our current energy need, it is unfeasible in reality. Wind power utilizes the kinetic energy of air and uses it to power a generator to produce electricity. Even though dependence on wind power is impossible, it still can provide a strong, clean, quantity of power to supplement current energy production. Wind energy is essentially the conversion of the kinetic energy from air molecules in motion to mechanical energy which is generally then converted into electrical energy. People have used wind power since 700 AD in the form of windmills that grind grain or draw water. Currently, wind energy is generally used to produce electricity and provides approximately one percent of the world’s electrical needs, but the theoretical power possible from wind energy would top 70 Terawatts of power; over five times the world’s total energy consumption. However, this upper limit is most likely unfeasible as it involves utilizing all land suited for wind turbine placement; approximately 13% of the world. s) Only areas class 3 or higher are suited to wind turbine construction Another problem with total reliance on wind energy would be the unreliable nature of the wind; a still day could render anyone depending on the turbines powerless. However, a good option is to keep undesirable but more reliable power generation at the ready for when the wind tapers down. A nation such as Denmark who is already producing about 20% of their electric use through wind power could keep coal or gas plants at standby; because the majority ... ...198 Watts. 3452198 watts / 833.33 watts =~ 4143 The one turbine has the ability to power over 4100 houses in the United States and saves about two tons of CO2 emission every hour the wind is blowing at the above speed. " Evaluation of global wind power." Stanford. 29 Jul 2008, 15:35 PST. . " Wind Energy." American Wind Energy Association. 29 Jul 2008, 15:40 UTC. . "Wind power." Energy Kids. 29 Jul 2008, 15:42 UTC. . "Wind Basics." Other Power. 29 Jul 2008, 15:55 UTC. . " Wind Energy Resource Atlas of the United States." National Renewable Energy Laboratory. 29 Jul 2008, 16:04 UTC. .

Refutation: The Story of Bigger Thomas ( Native Son ) :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In Darryl Pinckney’s discerning critical essay, â€Å"Richard Wright: The Unnatural History of a Native Son,† Pinckney states that all of Wright’s books contain the themes of violence, inhumanity, rage, and fear. Wright writes about these themes because he expresses, in his books, his convictions about his own struggles with racial oppression, the â€Å"brutal realities of his early life.† Pinckney claims that Wright’s works are unique for Wright’s works did not attempt to incite whites to acknowledge blacks. Wright does not write to preach that blacks are equal to whites. The characters in Wright’s works, including Bigger Thomas from Native Son, are not all pure in heart; the characters have psychological burdens and act upon their burdens. For instance, Bigger Thomas, long under racial oppression, accidentally suffocates Mary Dalton in her room for fear that he will be discriminated against and charged with the r ape of Mary Dalton. Also, according to Pinckney, although the characters of Wright’s books are under these psychological burdens, they always have â€Å"futile hopes [and] desires.† At the end of Native Son, Bigger is enlightened by the way his lawyer Max treats him, with the respect of a human being. Bigger then desires nothing but to live, but he has been sentenced to death. Although Pinckney expresses many strong points in his critical essay, he also reveals weak points. For example, Pinckney mentions that Wright is neither a black leader such as Malcolm X nor a writer with any strong background in American literature, yet Pinckney implicitly states that Wright is a great writer and that one must analyze his past to understand how he is a great writer. In that perspective, he also commends Wright’s book, Native Son. He states: Native Son is unmatched in its power†¦It is not true as Baldwin claims that Bigger Thomas, the doomed, frustrated black boy, is just another stereotype†¦extreme in his wish to injure himself and do injury to others†¦ Pinckney praises Native Son as a powerful intellectual book that deals with issues of racism and oppression. He says explicitly that it is the most powerful book, but it is unclear what domain of books Pinckney is comparing Native Son with. Pinckney refutes James Baldwin’s statement about Native Son, saying that Bigger Thomas is not a mere stereotype, but an example of a stressed black boy of the racially segregated American society during the 1930s. It is true that Bigger Thomas is a victim of a racially segregated society.