EFFECTS OF HUMAN ACTIVITIES

Humans require a number of natural resources for everyday use Natural resources include soil, plants, water, crops, animals, gas, and oil Any natural resource that is replaced by natural processes is called a renewable resource. Any resource that is only available in limited amounts is called a nonrenewable resource. Exp: metals, minerals, topsoil, fossil fuels

One of the major ways humans affect the environment is pollution The contamination of soil, water, or air resulting from human activity

Air Pollution Caused primarily by the burning of fossil fuels to produce electricity Other major contributors Driving cars Heating homes Flying planes Types of air pollutants Dust Smoke Ash Carbon monoxide Sulfur oxides

The Consequences of Air Pollution Smog: a combination of smoke, gases, and fog Acid rain: produced when sulfur oxides react with water vapor to form sulfuric acid The greenhouse effect: excess carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels traps radiant energy from the sun preventing heat from escaping Thinning of the ozone layer: From CFC’s (chlorofluorocarbons) manufactured for coolants in refrigerators, air conditioners, and for the making of styrofoam

Water Pollution Caused from contaminants from sewers, industries, farms, and homes, which enter water sources Types of pollutants Sewage Chemical wastes Fertilizer Dirty wash water