Environmental Issues

Small Steps, Big Stakes

By Jay Stoush

Environmental issues have been a major concern over the last few years. More and more people are debating environmental issues, and that is mainly due to increased understanding and publicity of the problems associated with global warming. Though global warming has been an issue for some time, it is far more recognized today.

Most environmental issues can be roughly divided into three categories. First of all is global climate change. This encompasses global warming issues, and the impact that climate change has on plants, animals, land masses, weather patterns, and so on. This also includes the reasons for climate change, which can include various types of pollution, potential world overpopulation, and underlying scientific reasons for natural climate change.

The second major category is the overuse of resources. This can include deforestation, the stripping of fossil fuels from the land, land degradation, and other human activities that adversely affect our environment. This also relates to many endangered species, as they are often endangered because of humans encroaching on their territory.

The third category is about waste management. This includes most forms of human pollution, including pollution of the land, air and water, and covering all forms of pollutants, including oil spills, nuclear waste and chemicals.

It's a great thing that so many more people are interested in environmental issues, so that more can happen to reverse the damage. Human civilizations have often moved ahead without considering what their actions would do to our planet, and now should start changing things before it’s too late.

Sometimes, people feel overwhelmed in the face of such global problems, but we can all make a positive contribution to environmental issues. Taking personal responsibility is the first step. It's not too hard to walk to the station, recycle or buy long life light bulbs You can act on environmental issues. Think globally, act locally!