Protecting the Environment

WHAT IS THE ENVIRONMENT?

We are always talking about the environment, but what is it? The environment is everything around us which can affect our lives. It surrounds and affects all life on earth, including the air, food chains, the water cycle, plants, animals and other humans. One of the biggest issues faced by the environment these days is climate change, and it is affecting the lives of not only people, but animals and plants around the world too.

DOES THE ENVIRONMENT NEED YOUR HELP?

Of course it does! All of us have basic needs. These include oxygen, water, food, shelter and warmth. For example, we get our food from the animals and plants. Except for warmth, the rest of the needs are provided by the environment. But as the human population increases, so has the harm caused upon the environment. Because humans have polluted the environment, it has led to a lot of negative consequences. Therefore, by protecting the environment, we are also helping ourselves and ensuring our survival.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

There are many things you can do to help protect the environment. You will be surprised to know that everyone, no matter how young or old, can make the necessary changes to make a positive impact on our environment. All it requires is that you be thoughtful and mindful of a few of your actions. Here are a few ways you can help. Use less water: Using less water is easier than you think. Start small - turn off the tap while you brush your teeth. Turn off the water when you shampoo yourself. Have quick showers instead of filling up bathtubs. Use a watering can to water plants instead of using a hose. Easier still is to turn off taps completely, without letting water drip from the faucet. These little drips may not look like much, but try collecting those in a cup and you will see how much water gets wasted every half hour!

Reduce power usage: Keep the lights and fans switched off when you don’t need it. The same goes with other electrical items such as TVS and radios. When possible, use a bicycle to go somewhere close by rather than expecting to be driven around. Turn your TV or computer off at the wall rather than use power by leaving it on standby. Discard less rubbish. Sort out garbage into those that can be recycled, and those that can’t. Reuse things as much as you can instead of discarding at first use. For example, you can print on both sides of a paper rather than print on consecutive papers. Recycle clothes, toys, books and games by giving them to another family, charity shop or putting into a charity recycle bin at the supermarket.