The intent of this diagram is to show the social and environmental effects of the Biogas Generator in India. The Biogas generators have improved the quality of life of some of the poorest people in the country. The use of cow dung helps keep the country side clean, while also providing the necessary element of the Biogas generator. The methane produced from the dung/water slurry mixture is used as a clean energy source for cooking and heating. Before the generators, firewood would have been used. The smoke was detrimental to the people’s health, increased deforestation, and children missed out on educational opportunities because they were working. An added side effect of the slurry mixture is its use in composting. Women especially have been able raise revenue through the sale of the nutrient rich compost mixture. The impact that the booming population has had on the ecosystem is a driving force behind the Biogas Generators.

There are a few similarities and differences between my diagram and figure 1.5 in the Marten reading. They are similar in that they both showcase the cross-interaction between the social system and the ecosystem. The methane gas that is produced leads to less deforestation and increased health benefits by improving air quality. A major difference is that Marten’s diagram is much more detailed, highlighting some of the smaller catalysts within the system.