ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the consequences people face through the use of energy resources: consequences on the natural environment, on resources, economic consequences, and why oftentimes they must make informed choices that may not be ideal, but are the best choices for the bigger picture. During the Industrial Revolution and this time of notable transition, lifestyles and roles changed significantly. Populations grew rapidly, and with this came huge demands for energy and raw materials to produce goods and supplies. As civilizations advanced both technologically and socially, their wants and needs began to skyrocket. Soil contamination, or soil pollution, as part of land degradation is caused by the presence of xenobiotic chemicals or other alteration in the natural soil environment. Air pollution is the introduction of particulates, biological molecules, or other harmful materials into Earth's atmosphere, causing diseases, allergies, death to humans, damage to other living organisms such as animals and food crops, or the natural or built environment.
