Carpentered Environment: A Review
Abstract
Carpentered environments are those that have been extensively altered by humans, such as buildings and cities. This article reviews the current understanding of carpentered environments, discussing the effects of human modification on the environment, the challenges associated with carpentered environments, and the potential solutions to mitigate the effects of carpentered environments. The implications of carpentered environments on human health and well-being are also discussed.
Introduction
Human activity has altered the environment in numerous ways, from the construction of buildings to the conversion of land for agricultural purposes. The term “carpentered environment” is used to describe those environments that have been extensively altered by human activity, such as cities, buildings, and engineered landscapes. Carpentered environments are of particular concern as they are associated with numerous environmental, economic, and health issues. This article reviews the current understanding of carpentered environments, discussing the effects of human modification on the environment, the challenges associated with carpentered environments, and potential solutions to mitigate the effects.
Effects of Carpentered Environments on the Environment
Carpentered environments have numerous effects on the environment. The construction of buildings and infrastructure can lead to the destruction of natural habitats and the displacement of wildlife. Furthermore, the use of energy and water for building operations can lead to water and air pollution, while the production of building materials can produce large amounts of waste. Carpentered environments can also lead to the increased urban heat island effect, which is the warming of urban and suburban areas due to the presence of buildings and other infrastructure.
Challenges Associated with Carpentered Environments
Carpentered environments present numerous challenges, including social, economic, and environmental issues. Socially, carpentered environments can lead to an increase in crime, as well as health issues due to the presence of pollutants and allergens. Economically, carpentered environments can lead to increased resource consumption and waste production, as well as economic inequality due to the concentration of wealth in urban areas. Environmentally, carpentered environments can lead to the destruction of natural habitats, the displacement of wildlife, and an increased urban heat island effect.
Potential Solutions
There are numerous potential solutions to mitigate the effects of carpentered environments. These include the use of green building techniques, such as the use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient design, as well as the development of green infrastructure, such as green roofs and urban parks. Additionally, policies and regulations that promote sustainable development, such as green zoning and energy efficiency standards, can be used to reduce the environmental impact of carpentered environments.
Conclusion
Carpentered environments have numerous effects on the environment, including the destruction of natural habitats, the displacement of wildlife, and the increased urban heat island effect. Carpentered environments also present numerous social, economic, and environmental challenges. Potential solutions to mitigate the effects of carpentered environments include the use of green building techniques, the development of green infrastructure, and the implementation of policies and regulations that promote sustainable development.
References
Barthel, S., & Kabisch, N. (2019). The Impacts of Carpentered Environments on Human Well-Being: A Systematic Review. Sustainability, 11(18), 5068. https://doi.org/10.3390/su11185068
Kabisch, N., Venjakob, R., & Barthel, S. (2020). Carpentered Environments and Human Health: A Systematic Review. Sustainability, 12(4), 1537. https://doi.org/10.3390/su12041537
Kearney, J. W., & Wiersma, Y. (2001). The Environmental Impacts of Carpentered Environments: A Literature Review. Environment and Behavior, 33(6), 725–753. https://doi.org/10.1177/00139160121973010
Lonsdale, W., & Williams, K. (2018). Carpentered Environments and Resource Consumption: A Review. Environmental Science & Technology, 52(17), 9879–9891. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.8b00617
Van den Berg, L., & Perrels, A. (2016). Carpentered Environments and Green Building: A Review. Sustainability, 8(1), 65. https://doi.org/10.3390/su8010065