The environment has always been crucial to human survival, providing us with food, shelter, recreation, and livelihood opportunities. From the oceans and rivers to mangroves and rainforests, we depend on the natural resources the environment offers. Moreover, various natural processes within the environment benefit us and collectively sustain our planet. Undoubtedly, the environment is integral to our everyday lives.
To foster a greater appreciation for this life-sustaining environment, it is essential to understand its basic components and the processes that occur within it.
What makes up the Environment?
The environment is comprised of both living and non-living elements and the natural processes that continuously occur around them. Living things include plants and animals, while non-living things encompass soils, air, and water. Each environment is unique, and may encompass a variety of habitats, supporting a wide range of plants and animals.
What threatens the Environment?
Over the years, we have witnessed the degradation, and even complete loss, of some of the most pristine environments on Earth. Our pursuit of advanced lifestyles and the pressures of an increasing global population have accelerated the demand for environmental resources. Urbanization has led to the clearing of land for housing and infrastructural development, with wetlands being increasingly filled as settlements expand along coastlines. Other common activities impacting the environment include logging, pollution, and the over-harvesting of natural resources such as fish and wildlife.
Deforestation is a particularly pressing global issue in the fight against climate change. Forest ecosystems provide essential services, including water purification, nutrient recycling, and carbon storage. The latter is especially important, because forests absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, one of the most prevalent greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Excessive carbon dioxide levels are a major cause of global warming, which in turn drives climate change. This change is associated with extreme weather events that are becoming more frequent and severe, and is a trend that is expected to continue.
How can we combat environmental challenges?
Sustainability is key to balancing human demands on the environment, with its natural limits. While we all require food, water and shelter to survive, we cannot afford to exhaust the natural resources our environment provides. Instead, we must practise sustainable use, wisely utilizing resources today while ensuring their availability for tomorrow.
At the individual or family level, embracing sustainability does not require much effort, and can even save money. Here are some simple steps you can take to live a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle:
* Support local farmers and food manufacturers.
* Reduce, reuse, and recycle.
* Conserve water and electricity at home and at work.
* Invest in energy-efficient devices such as TVs, microwaves, laptops, and security lights.
* Walk, bike, or use public transportation more often.
We can all make a difference by adopting lifestyles that prioritize the environment. Collectively, we can contribute significantly to the global fight against climate change. Make 2024 the year you commit to positive environmental change.
