Human Impact

How do humans affect the Earth? Human activity can have a positive or a negative impact on the surface of our Earth. We deplete resources found on Earth. We pollute the environment when we use fossil fuels.

Types of Natural Resources Renewable resources can be replenished within a relatively short time period. Nonrenewable resources form very slowly, over millions of years. When present supplies are used, there will be no more.

Conservation Through conservation strategies, people can slow down the degradation (damage) of the environment and the depletion of non-renewable resources.

Alternative Energy Sources Wind electricity Solar electricity Hydroelectricity These natural resources are renewable and produce little to no waste products.

Wind turns turbines that generate electricity. Wind electricity Wind turns turbines that generate electricity.

Solar electricity Photovoltaic cells absorb solar radiation and convert into electricity.

Moving water turns turbines that generate electricity. Hydroelectricity Moving water turns turbines that generate electricity.

Good techniques for Conserving Soil contour plowing strip planting cover crops crop rotation terrace farming planting groundcovers windbreaks tree planting mulching

Good techniques for Conserving Water Short showers Turn off water when brushing teeth Run dishwasher only when it is full Water plants early in the morning

Good techniques for Conserving Fossil Fuels Walk or bike Carpool Use public transportation Buy alternative fuel vehicles

How can I persuade others to practice conservation?

Design a Conservation Poster Topics Soil Water Plants Pollution Energy Fossil fuels Animals