Question

reflection questions

1. what is the relationship between food production and extinction? how do different types of food production differ in their impacts on extinction and climate change?
2. in the video it is stated that the only way to affect change is to present an alternative. often this alternative has to be viewed as economically beneficial for the people who are choosing it. how can we protect the environment and at the same time improve peoples standard of living. discuss one specific example.
3. in the video, it is stated that: “we have the illusion that its the big things in nature that count, but if the little things go, everything fails.” give an example of this phenomena.
4. the closing message of the film is, “it is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.” what would you light and how will this make a difference in the darkness?

Explanation:

1. Food production can contribute to extinction through habitat - destruction for farming, use of pesticides harming non - target species, and water pollution. Different types of food production like intensive livestock farming and large - scale monoculture have more significant impacts than sustainable and small - scale methods. Climate change is also affected as agriculture is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.
2. An alternative to a non - environmentally friendly choice could be choosing to buy locally sourced food instead of imported food. This reduces carbon emissions from transportation. We can protect the environment by supporting local farmers' markets and community - supported agriculture programs.
3. An example of the illusion that big things in nature count while little things go unnoticed and fail could be the focus on large mammals like elephants or tigers while ignoring the decline of insects. Insects play crucial roles in pollination, decomposition, and as a food source for other animals.
4. Lighting a candle represents taking positive action and hope in the face of darkness (problems). It can inspire others and create a sense of community and purpose, which can lead to more collective action to address issues, rather than just complaining about the problems.

Answer:

1. Food production can cause extinction through habitat loss, pesticide use, etc. Different types have different climate - change impacts.
2. Alternative: buy local food. Protect by supporting local markets.
3. Example: focus on large mammals, ignore insect decline.
4. Lighting a candle gives hope and can inspire action instead of cursing darkness.