What Are Environmental Issues?
Environmental issues are problems mainly caused by humans that affect the natural environment. The most serious environmental issues facing the world today are global warming, pollution, deforestation, overpopulation and climate change.
People are becoming more aware of the impact of human activity on the planet which has led to an increase in environmental campaigns around the world.
A variety of environmental issues and sub-topics are covered as outlined below:
Types of Environmental Issues
We can examine environmental affairs on a local, national and global level but ultimately the issues are the same. The most pressing environmental problems that our world is facing today include:
Global Warming
Global warming is the heating of the Earth’s surface, oceans and atmosphere. It is mainly caused by the burning of fossil fuels which leads to the emission of carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases.
Climate Change
Scientists believe climate change is linked to global warming. Although the Earth’s climate has changed many times over the past few thousand years, climatologists believe that the long-term change in the weather pattern is the result of our own human impact on the environment.
Pollution
There are many types of pollution including:
- Air pollution
- Water pollution
- Soil pollution
- Noise pollution
- Light pollution
Most pollution types are linked to vehicle exhaust fumes, waste from industrial factories and plants, the burning of fossil fuels and the unnecessary use of lighting.
Tackling Environmental Issues
People are becoming more aware of the effect their choices have on their local environment. Whether it’s the way we manage our waste, the cleaning products we use in our homes or the amount of energy we use each day, our actions have environmental consequences. We can all make a difference and strive to save our planet as follows:
- Reduce your electricity consumption
- Walk or use a bike rather than drive
- Use less water
- Avoid products in plastic packaging