What Is the Environment? The environment is something you are very familiar with. It's everything that makes up our surroundings and affects our ability to live on the earth. the air we breathe, the water that covers most of the earth's surface, the plants and animals around us.

How People Have Affected the Environment? In recent years, scientists have been carefully examining the ways that people affect the environment. They have found that we are causing air pollution, deforestation, acid rain, and other problems that are dangerous both to the earth and to ourselves.

Environmental Issues : * Global Warming & the Greenhouse Effect Global Warming: How Does Global Warming Affect Our Health? Global warming currently contributes to more than 150,000 deaths and 5 million illnesses every year, according to the World Health Organization

Pollution Pollution can take many forms. The air we breathe, the water we drink, the ground where we grow our food, and even the increasing noise we hear every day— all contribute to health problems and a lower quality of life.

More than 10 million people in eight different countries are at serious risk for cancer, respiratory diseases, and premature death.

What Can We Do to Reduce Global Warming ? You can help to reduce the demand for fossil fuels, which in turn reduces global warming, by using energy more wisely. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Use Less Heat and Air Conditioning Change a light bulb Drive less and drive smart Buy Energy-Efficient Products Use Less Hot Water

Use the "Off" Switch Plant a tree Encourage Others to Conserve

Ways to Reduce Air Pollution turn off appliances and lights when you leave the room. Recycle paper, plastic, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans. Keep woodstoves and fireplaces well maintained. Connect your outdoor lights to a timer or use solar lighting. Wash clothes with warm or cold water instead of hot. Choose not to smoke in your home, especially if you have children.

Ways to Reduce Water Pollution Reduce the amount of runoff that comes from your property Minimize your use of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. Properly store and dispose of chemicals. Clean up pet waste. Pick up litter and properly dispose of trash.