Environmental research broadly refers to those studies across many scientific disciplines that relate to understanding and solving the problem of the environment. It commonly appears as homogeneous, but there are significant diversities that lie within the field in more broad focus areas regarding approaches and targets. In this article, a foray into distinguishing types of environmental research will serve to highlight their salient differences, unique characteristics, and unique contributions to our understanding of the natural world.
1. Basic vs. Applied Environmental Research
Basic Environmental Research
Basic environmental research has, in the common usage, given rise to the nomenclature “pure” research. It is research that mainly has as its aim the acquisition of comprehensive knowledge and the understanding of basic processes in the environment. Such research attempts to answer questions about ecosystems, climate change, biodiversity, and other natural phenomena without short-term concern for their implications. For instance, the monitoring of the effect of pollutants on microbial communities is registered under this category. The most important goal of such research would be to expand on an already existing body of general knowledge, a body of knowledge that could later influence applied research and policy.
Applied Environmental Research
On the other hand, applied environmental research focuses on the development of concrete solutions to specific environmental problems. This method is typically interdisciplinary, using fields such as ecology, chemistry, and sociology to tackle real-life issues, including climate change mitigation, pollution control, and resource management. A case in point would be researches carried out with new technologies for renewable energy that should reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The focal point of such intervention is practical and, as such, finds its results on the doorstep of those concerned with policies, industries, and communities.
2. Quantitative vs. Qualitative Environmental Research
Quantitative Environmental Research
Quantitative research comprises a procedure for collecting juxtaposition and analyzing numerical data in order to discern patterns, correlations, and trends. This methodology very often entails the use of statistical approaches in putting the hypotheses to the test or verifying their correctness. For example, a study measuring concentrations of heavy metals in soil in various places would provide quantifiable data for statistical analysis in order to draw conclusions about the sources and levels of pollution.
Qualitative Environmental Research
On the contrary, qualitative research is concerned with bringing such insights to the experience, behavior, and perceptions-interdependently-of humankind in respect to environmental issues. This type of research generally employs interviews or questionnaires or is conducted through ethnographic studies. For instance, the attitudes of a community towards local conservation efforts could lead to an in-depth inquiry as to what motivates these attitudes. Qualitative research, therefore, is indispensable in understandings of the social dimension of environmental issues.
3. The monodisciplinary and interdisciplinary research into the environment.
Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
Environmental problems, by their nature, are robustly complex and multi-scale in consideration, calling for an interdisciplinary methodology integrating knowledge from several disciplines. Interdisciplinary research combines knowledge of ecology, economics, sociology, and political science, among other disciplines, for undertaking different problems like climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental justice. For instance, researches concerning the impact of city development on local ecosystems could be joined with inputs from urban planners, ecologists, and community stakeholders to come up with holistic solutions.
Monodisciplinary Environmental Research
On the contrary, the monodisciplinary approach stands in contrast to the interdisciplinary in focusing solely on one discipline. This has the merit of being able to provide deeper knowledge and expertise when considering an environmental problem. At times, as the case is with a group of researches dealing solely with the biologist’s effects of certain pesticides on certain living species, the socio-economic implications of pesticide operation by local farmers may not be well given priority. It would not equate of course to being able to set penalty for involvement of a certain researcher. Monodisciplinary is often valid for specific research and simultaneously allows collaborative efforts with an interdisciplinary approach.
4. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Environmental Research
Short-Term Environmental Research
The study is common in addressing short-term environmental problems or phenomena that can be observed within a short time span. Seasonal shifts in wildlife populations or the effects of chemical spills could be identified. This is an important study that aims at alerting stakeholders to act promptly with the right and necessary information to stem the adverse impacts of such events.
Long-Term Environmental Research
Long-term studies take years or decades to evaluate the gradual changes and changes that take years to develop. They are paramount in providing the foundation for understanding climate change, deforestation, the extinction of species, and other phenomena that take time to develop. These studies may utilize some long-term historical data to find underlying patterns and make predictions about the future. Findings generated through long-term studies may provide a basis for developing sustainable policies and practices.
Conclusion
A good appreciation of the differences between the varying kinds of environmental research is of paramount interest for the effectiveness with which Earth can pull through its numerous challenges. Basically, from applied to basic, quantitative to qualitative, multi- to monodisciplinary approach, and short- to long-term study, any research offers something that not only creates knowledge but could also be used to provide direction to policy making. With this appreciation, cooperation within the relevant stakeholders of researchers, policymakers, and the general public may further propel a sustainable future concerning the environment.
