What do you think about the idea of putting an economic value on ecosystem services, as discussed in the NPR article? Is this possible? What would be the advantages and disadvantages of this approach?

Iceberg model of systems thinking

1.What is likely to happen over time as a positive feedback loop occurs, and why are positive feedback loops a potential concern in relation to climate change? Use a specific example of a positive feedback loop in your answer.

2.Consider the iceberg model of systems thinking discussed in the Sweeney article. Give an example of a problem in your life (could be social, professional, environmental, etc.) and explain how the iceberg model can be applied to it. Be sure to identify 1) the event 2) the patterns 3) the structure, and 4) the mental model.

3.What are three examples of ecosystem services that you can identify in your immediate environment (say, within a mile of where you live)? For each of your examples, indicate which category of ecosystem service it belongs to.

4.What do you think about the idea of putting an economic value on ecosystem services, as discussed in the NPR article? Is this possible? What would be the advantages and disadvantages of this approach?

5.Are you optimistic about the potential for widespread systems change to address current planetary crises? Why or why not?
Grading Rubric (100 points)
1. Mention at least 5 specific points as you address these 5 questions. (40 points)
2. Explanation at a critical level, not just recitation of facts. (30 points)
3. Respond (thoughtfully) to at least one other post. (20 points)
4. Length of first post, around 300 words. (10 points)