The Impact of Our Own Species on Earth Discussion

The material covered in this module has shown that changes in global geology and climate over the past 3+ billion years have dramatically shaped the evolution of life on Earth. Simultaneously, life has altered the Earth in a variety of ways. More recently, one species-Homo sapiens-has been altering conditions on Earth, with potentially catastrophic effects for myriad species. Some argue that we are even on the cusp of a 6th mass extinction event.

Your initial post should be at least 250 words and must substantively integrate the assigned readings from the module with proper APA style formatting// You may use additional sources and materials as long as they are relevant to the discussion and cited properly

Question:

If all of the ice stored in Antarctica and Greenland were to melt due to global warming, the World's oceans would rise by approximately 100m (330 ft.). Take a look at a relief map of the globe and briefly describe some of the major consequences of a 100m rise in sea levels. Please include in your discussion estimated changes to land area (including continents, islands, and low-lying coastal regions), loss of human habitat, and the potential loss of biological diversity. As a sentient species, should we try to curtail our impact on the planet and 3.5 billion years of evolution or should we simply consider ourselves part of the natural cycle of Earth's biodiversity?

Your initial post should be at least 250 words and must substantively integrate the assigned readings from the module with proper APA style formatting// You may use additional sources and materials as long as they are relevant to the discussion and cited properly.