Global threats Vs. Personal Strategies to Protect the Environment Work done by: A ndreia Loureiro 11ºC Nº2

What is pollution? Pollution is the introduction of pollutants (chemical substances, noise, heat, or light) into the environment to such a point that its effects become dangerous to human health, other living organisms, or the environment.

Which are the different forms of Pollution? Air pollution; Water pollution; Land pollution; Noise pollution; Light pollution; Radiation.

Scientists expect that dramatic (and mostly unavoidable) natural changes in the earth's planetary condition will mean the end of life here in another 500 million years. But what about unnatural, man-caused changes to earth? Which ones have a more future potential to dramatically change, or even destroy, the ecosystem that supports all life on planet earth?

The most significant global threats 1. Nuclear Power (from warfare or energy production); 2. Depletion of the Ozone Layer; 3. Global Warming. 4. Greenhouse Effect 5. Melting Glaciers

But, what can we do to protect the environment? Our pollution problems are not unsolvable! We can work together as well as individually to overcome this urgent situation: Never leave your TV/Video there on standby for a long time; Use energy-saving, long-life light bulbs; Use your washing machine in 40º C programs, and if possible, at night;

Low down your central heating by 1º C: It’s 10% of energy saving; Always stop water running when you brush you teeth, use your shampoo or shower gel; Use recycled paper bags, because they are better for the environment, and choose products in a recycled packaging; Recycling is urgent! You can help by separating garbage according to different materials (glass; paper; plastic; metal; batteries), and put them in a recycling bank;

If you are a single person, you should do the washing manually. But if you leave in groups, it’s better to use a machine; Wash glass containers before sending for recycling; Use more public transports, and less your car; Avoid air-conditioning which use CFC’s; Avoid aerosols which use cfc’s; Save water! Control your taps, use dirt water for your plants and use water bottles inside your flusher.

Bibliography Images: Pollution;

Information: world/environmental-issue-12.htm;