Threats To the Environment

Threats to the Environment Many human activities threaten the environment, causing pollution that leads to environmental problems that impact us on a local and global level.

Threats to the Environment Habitat Destruction – species are threatened as forests and other habitats are cleared and polluted. Deforestation may contribute to global warming. Can you think of a form of habitat destruction that may occur on St. Kitts and Nevis?

Threats to the Environment Waste dumping pollutes sensitive ecosystems. Burning waste creates toxic fumes.

Threats to the Environment Pesticides used to protect food from harmful insects, but also kill off helpful insects. They pollute water and concentrate in bodies of predators such as osprey. Fertilizers damage ponds and rivers by causing too much algae to grow.

Threats to the Environment Oil spills damage delicate coastal ecosystems, killing seabirds and polluting beaches. Can you name two ways that oil spills can occur?

Threats to the Environment Waste and misuse of water by individuals and industry creates water shortages. Lack of fresh water affects crop production and health. At what times should we water our lawns, if we must, and why?

Threats to the Environment Air pollution in towns and cities creates smog and affects health. Large scale air pollution by burning fossil fuels creates global environmental problems including acid rain and global warming. The release of CFCs has helped destroy the ozone layer.

Threats to the Environment Water pollution by factory waste and sewage harm wildlife and spreads disease.

Sad Stuff! As bad as all this seems, we can make a difference by the way we decide to live our lives with respect to the earth!

What you have learned Copy and complete these sentences using these key words (global, national, environmental problems, local, pollution): Global warming and deforestation are two that we face. Our environment is being damaged by and by habitat destruction created by human actions. Waste disposal may affect the environment on a scale. Problems such as deforestation, air pollution, and global warming are issues of and importance.

In-class Assignment Give an example of a local environmental issue that affects St. Kitts and Nevis. Give an example of a global environmental problem. What affect could this problem have on your community/country if it is not solved?