Our farmlands, forests and waters are disappearing at an alarming rate. Habitat destruction, non-native species invasions, and air and water
pollution are damaging our environment. If this continues, we may not
have enough good land, clean water or air to sustain us. Plants produce oxygen we need to breathe. They absorb carbon dioxide to reduce global warming, help keep our air clean, and prevent erosion and landslides. Here are some more environmental facts:
Sustaining life of all kinds is crucial for a growing world economy so we can grow the food and raw materials we need. The more people there are, the greater the potential strain on our environment. Our world’s population is 6.5 billion. The UN estimates that by 2050 this will grow to 9.1 billion. Although economic development often brings more
pollution, it doesn’t have to. For example, finding ways to reduce fuel use
can be passed on to us as lower prices. We can enjoy the beauties of nature, even in major cities: view of Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Environmentally friendly economic growth can actually help the environment - and not just with a less polluting industry. The better off people are, the fewer children they tend to have. That means fewer people consuming resources. People living in a strong economy are more likely to support the development and use of clean technologies. However, if they feel their survival may depend upon a growing economy, they may feel their country's industry "cannot afford" to fight pollution. Every government should support sustainable growth and recycling through subsidies and tax breaks. Controlling pollution and minimizing use of nonrenewable resources is key. More on the Environment and What You Can Do by
Denessa Bachelor |
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