Environmental Terms 

Ecosystem

• Definition: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
• Example: “The forest ecosystem is home to a diverse range of wildlife.”

Biodiversity

• Definition: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
• Example: “Protecting biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.”

Conservation

• Definition: The preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment and wildlife.
• Example: “Conservation efforts have helped save many endangered species.”

Sustainability

• Definition: The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level, avoiding the depletion of natural resources to maintain ecological balance.
• Example: “Sustainability practices include reducing waste and conserving water.”

Pollution

• Definition: The presence in or introduction into the environment of a substance which has harmful or poisonous effects.
• Example: “Air pollution is a major problem in many industrial cities.”

Climate Change

• Definition: A change in global or regional climate patterns, particularly a change apparent from the mid to late 20th century onwards, attributed largely to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels.
• Example: “Climate change is causing more frequent and severe weather events.”

Carbon Footprint

• Definition: The amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc.
• Example: “Reducing your carbon footprint can help combat climate change.”

Deforestation

• Definition: The clearing or thinning of forests by humans.
• Example: “Deforestation is a major environmental issue, leading to loss of habitat for many species.”

Renewable Energy

• Definition: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
• Example: “Investing in renewable energy can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”

Habitat

• Definition: The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.
• Example: “Wetlands are important habitats for many bird species.”

Ozone Layer

• Definition: A layer in the earth’s stratosphere containing a high concentration of ozone, which absorbs most of the ultraviolet radiation reaching the earth from the sun.
• Example: “The depletion of the ozone layer increases the risk of skin cancer.”

Greenhouse Gases

• Definition: Gases in the earth’s atmosphere that trap heat, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.
• Example: “Greenhouse gases contribute to global warming by trapping heat in the atmosphere.”

Recycling

• Definition: The process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects.
• Example: “Recycling helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.”

Organic Farming

• Definition: A method of farming that uses natural fertilizers and pest control methods instead of synthetic chemicals.
• Example: “Organic farming promotes healthier soils and reduces pollution.”

Actions to Protect the Environment 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Definition: The three Rs of waste management that promote reducing waste, reusing items, and recycling materials.
• Example: “By practicing reduce, reuse, recycle, we can decrease the amount of waste we produce.”

Composting

• Definition: The process of recycling organic waste, such as food scraps and yard waste, into a valuable fertilizer that can enrich soil and plants.
• Example: “Composting kitchen scraps is an excellent way to reduce landfill waste.”

Conserving Water

• Definition: Using water efficiently to reduce unnecessary water usage.
• Example: “Conserving water by fixing leaks and using low-flow fixtures helps protect this vital resource.”

Planting Trees

• Definition: The act of planting trees to improve the environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, and supporting wildlife.
• Example: “Planting trees in urban areas can help reduce air pollution.”

Using Public Transportation

• Definition: Opting for public transit options like buses, trains, and subways instead of personal vehicles to reduce carbon emissions.
• Example: “Using public transportation can significantly lower your carbon footprint.”

Eco-friendly Products

• Definition: Products that have been designed to do the least possible damage to the environment.
• Example: “Switching to eco-friendly products, like reusable shopping bags, can reduce plastic waste.”

Sustainable Living

• Definition: Adopting lifestyles and practices that reduce one’s environmental impact.
• Example: “Sustainable living includes actions like using energy-efficient appliances and reducing waste.”

Energy Conservation

• Definition: The effort made to reduce the consumption of energy by using less of an energy service.
• Example: “Energy conservation can be achieved by turning off lights when not in use and using energy-efficient light bulbs.”

Protecting Wildlife

• Definition: Actions taken to preserve and protect animal species and their habitats.
• Example: “Protecting wildlife involves creating and maintaining natural reserves and preventing poaching.”

Using Renewable Resources

• Definition: Utilizing natural resources that can be replenished naturally with the passage of time, such as sunlight, wind, and biomass.
• Example: “Using renewable resources helps ensure that we do not deplete the earth’s natural assets.”

Reducing Plastic Use

• Definition: Cutting down on the use of plastic products to lessen pollution and environmental impact.
• Example: “Reducing plastic use by opting for reusable containers and bags can help protect oceans and wildlife.”

Environmental Education

• Definition: Teaching individuals and communities about the environment and how to protect it.
• Example: “Environmental education programs can inspire people to adopt more sustainable practices.”

Supporting Conservation Efforts

• Definition: Contributing to and participating in activities aimed at preserving and protecting the environment.
• Example: “Supporting conservation efforts, such as donating to wildlife organizations, helps protect endangered species.”

Advocating for Environmental Policies

• Definition: Promoting and supporting legislation and policies that aim to protect the environment.
• Example: “Advocating for environmental policies can lead to stricter regulations on pollution and better protection for natural resources.”

Eco-tourism

• Definition: Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.
• Example: “Eco-tourism allows travelers to explore natural habitats while supporting conservation efforts and local communities.”