Environmental Science

Study of environmental systems and human impact on the natural world.

Basic Concepts

Human Impact on the Environment

How Do People Change the Planet?

Humans use natural resources for food, energy, and shelter. Sometimes, these activities harm the environment.

Pollution

  • Air pollution from factories and cars adds harmful gases to the atmosphere.
  • Water pollution from chemicals and waste can make rivers and lakes unsafe.

Deforestation

Cutting down forests for wood, farming, or buildings destroys habitats and reduces biodiversity.

Climate Change

Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, which trap heat and change the climate. This can lead to rising sea levels, stronger storms, and shifting weather patterns.

Overuse of Resources

Overfishing, mining, and excessive water use can exhaust natural resources and damage ecosystems.

What Can We Do?

By understanding our impact, we can make choices that protect the planet.

Examples

  • Smoggy cities caused by car emissions and industrial pollution.

  • Coral reefs dying because of ocean warming and pollution.

In a Nutshell

Human activities can harm the environment, but we can make a positive difference by changing our habits.

Key Terms

Greenhouse Gas
A gas that traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
Deforestation
The clearing or thinning of forests by humans.