Chapter 13 homework

Chapter 13, Section 1

1. Natural resources, people, and culture are 3 reasons major economic changes are taking place in Europe.

2. Since the fall of communism in 1989, eastern European countries have been moving from command economies to market economies. Private ownership of land and food production has risen. Yield and profits have increased through the use of modern equipment and fertilizers. Many laid-off workers were retrained, as industries tried to acquire new technology and adopt measures to reduce pollution. Cell phone use is increasing in eastern Europe.

Creative Writing:
I agree with this statement because Europe already has very efficient transportation systems. Europe’s network of highways, railroads, waterways, and airline routes is among the best in the world. Trade is very important in Europe and with it current transportation systems it will continue to flourish. Europe’s communications are not as advanced but are important to linking parts of Europe to one another and to the rest of the world.

Chapter 13, Section 2

1. Humans’ repeated misuse of the land has accelerated soil erosion in Europe. Activities such as over-farming, bad farming practices, removing too much vegetation, and overgrazing livestock lead to rapid erosion. Deforestation has reduced the amount of Europe covered in forests from 4/5 to 2/3. Air and water pollution, caused by industries, have damaged Europe’s ecosystems.

2. The European Union requires environmental protection and cleanup from its members. Many power plants now burn natural gas instead of lignite coal. By 2010 all EU member countries must lower emissions to 15% below the 1990 levels to reduce greenhouse gases.

Creative Writing:
I disagree with this statement. The pollution laws and controls put in place by the members of European Union are helping to protect the environment in Europe today and in the future. But, damage has already been done and efforts need to be put in place not only to protect the environment, but to also repair Europe’s damaged ecosystems.