Showing papers on "Sustainability published in 1983"

Major water problems facing the world

Abstract: Water has become an increasingly important ingredient in the development process of all countries. Not only is safe drinking water essential for our well‐being, but water is also a primary requisite for further agricultural, industrial and energy‐related developments. Based on existing studies, four major water problems facing the world today are identified. These are the provision of safe drinking water; water requirements for further agricultural, hydroelectric and industrial developments; sustainability of water development projects; and development of water resources shared by two or more states. Both the magnitude and nature of the problem areas are discussed. Four major strategic considerations, as they relate to the priority areas identified, are outlined. These include consideration of the multidimensionality of the problem; promotion of the efficient use of water; encouragement of better management of water resources systems; and application of research results to solve real‐world problems.

High Temperature Composting as a Resource Recovery System for Agro-Industrial Wastes

Abstract: In a workshop devoted, in principle, to the exploitation of biomass for chemical feedstocks or biofuels, it is perhaps paradoxical to present a paper that urges the return of biomass to that most precious component of our natural resources -- the soil. This paper will discuss the potential use of high temperature composting as a resource recovery system, not only as a technological solution to the ever burgeoning organic wastes of human society, but also as a low technology approach to the maintenance and sustainability of our ecosystems in the future. Whether the biomass being produced is for food, fuel, feedstock or fibre, its continued production is dependent ultimately on the effective management and maintenance of the fertility of the soils utilized. The need for biomass recycling in order to achieve such sustainability is a major theme underlying this presentation.

Implications of Soil Loss Control Policies upon the Long-run Sustainability of Agricultural Production within the State of Iowa

Abstract: There is a growing tendency in the United States for decentralized public policymaking concerning agricultural production and resource use. Regional differences in climate, soil characteristics, water resource development, and input factor costs present each region with a unique situation. Individual regions have an incentive to develop a framework for analyzing both the impacts of national farm policies upon their own area, and in formulating region-specific policy programs which take explicit account of important local problems.