Pollution in Europe – Fact or Opinion? Directions: Read the following true statements. You must decide if these statements are FACT or OPINION. Then, explain your decision in a complete sentence or two. Example: Pollution in Europe is a major problem. This statement is an opinion because of the word “major.” While pollution is a problem, not everyone would consider it “major.”

Pollution in Europe – Fact or Opinion? Pollution is a complex example of human-environment interaction. Answer: Opinion. “Complex” is an opinion. Air pollution is made up of gases and very small particles of liquid or solid matter. Answer: People damage the environment, which in turn affects human lives. Breathing polluted air can contribute to diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. In Poland, from 1988 to 1990, 44% of the cities had no sewage plant.

Pollution in Europe – Fact or Opinion? The water in most of Poland’s river is unsafe to drink. Answer: In December 1999, a tanker sank off the west coast of France and spilled 10,000 tons of oil that spread along 250 miles of coastline. Because water pollution spreads so easily, many countries must cooperate to solve the problem. The link between industry and pollution creates a dilemma. The European Union has passed laws to reduce pollution all over Europe.

Europeans prefer to drive a “smart car Europeans prefer to drive a “smart car.” How does that help reduce pollution? Answer:

 Solutions to Pollution  Brainstorm and think of at least 5 things Europeans can do to reduce pollution

The Aral Sea is shrinking… but why?

Farmers take water the rivers that feed into the lake… farmers gotta irrigate!