Extinction Prevention via Engineering
Figure 1. The Caribbean Monk Seal was put on the endangered species list in 1967 and is now extinct.Copyright National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/images/pinnipeds/mediterraneanmonkseal_ifaw.jpg
Species extinction is happening at an alarming rate according to scientists. In this lesson, students are asked to consider why extinction is a problem that we should concern us. They are taught that destruction of habitat is the main reason many species are threatened. The lesson explores ways that engineers can help save endangered species.
Engineers can prevent extinction by developing ways to preserve diverse biological habitats. Materials engineers develop materials that mimic the qualities of wood to be used instead of rainforest timber. Chemical engineers have developed a way to lessen the harmful effects starfish have on coral reef. Environmental engineers are developing ways to combat global warming, which adversely affects coral reef. Agricultural engineers work to develop farming techniques that limit depletion of soil nutrients and maintain soil health. Engineers consult both the sciences and ethics issues as they shape their designs.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Understand why it is important to prevent extinction.
- List ways that engineering can prevent extinction.
- Evaluate competing solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.