Perspective! ROLE OF EDUCATORS IN ADDRESSING ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

CHILLET G. CREDO, MAT

The current condition of the earth’s natural resources has reached its alarming state as different environmental issues have emerged. Global warming, air pollution, ozone layer depletion, and problems with waste disposal are a few of the issues of the environment that continue to emerge.

Global warming is one of the environmental issues faced by all nations of the world. Different human activities had contributed to the emission of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere such as burning of fossil fuel, deforestation and different agricultural activities. The burning of fossil fuel also has detrimental effects to wildlife and the environment. The emission of green-house gasses can result in the destruction of plants and in turn can lead to the extinction of animals.

The burning of fossil fuels is the world’s largest contributor to air pollution and is a major global public health concern. It releases a wide array of harmful pollutants, including particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, mercury, and other hazardous air pollutants. The health effects of breathing polluted air include reduced lung function, asthma, cardiovascular disease, preterm birth, and premature death.

Actions that are valuable in saving and protecting our environment are crucial in the hope of conserving the environment. Educators have a crucial role in dealing with different environmental issues. Environmental awareness and education can equip learners with proper knowledge and motivation in finding solutions to various environmental issues. Educators also have important role in promoting and in modelling sustainable practices in the academic community. Learners can learn best when they are given opportunity to participate to different environmental activities such as recycling, waste segregation and reduction of energy consumption.

Educators can also help in shaping the learners to become responsible citizens of the nation. Campaigns and integration of environmental education in different subject areas can help in instilling to the minds of the students that every action can have direct effect to the environment and every individual has responsibility in protecting and in preserving the environment.

-oOoThe author is Instructor I in Don Honorio Ventura State University