Humans and the Environment
What is extinction?
When a species no longer exists
Extinction Natural process Caused by climate changes, predators, environmental factors, and human involvement
Natural Resources Resources taken from the environment Renewable resources can be replaced by nature Nonrenewable resources cannot be replaced
Questions What is extinction? What are some causes of extinction? What is the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources?
Pollution Making the environment unclean with wastes Gases, chemicals, heat, garbage, and noise Materials that cause pollution are pollutants
Air pollution Caused by burning fuels and trash Industries cause such pollution Causes lung disease and acid rain
Water pollution
Industrial wastes, sewage, and chemicals dumped into water supply
Soil pollution Some is caused by pollutants in the air or chemical used to control pests Burying toxic wastes can cause soil pollution as well
Consequences of pollution Acid rain Endangering or extinction of animals Contamination of environment Poor air quality Disease
Questions How are the types of pollution different? What is pollution? What are some causes of pollution?
Conservation Wise use of materials and energy Recycling (reusing) materials Decreasing amounts used Using alternative forms of energy and materials
Questions What are some ways pollution can affect the environment? How can humans reduce pollution?