Unit 8: B1 Vocabulary Environmental Conservation

Pollution

Definition: The introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment.

Example: Factories can contribute to air pollution by releasing toxic gases into the atmosphere.

 

Public Transportation

Definition: Systems of buses, trains, subways, and other forms of transportation that are available for use by the general public.

Example: Using public transportation like buses and trains can help reduce the number of cars on the road, decreasing air pollution.

 

Recycle

Definition: The process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects.

Example: Recycling paper, plastic, and glass can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

 

Single-Use Plastics

Definition: Plastic products that are intended to be used once and then discarded.

Example: Straws, plastic bags, and water bottles are common single-use plastics that contribute to pollution.

 

Natural Resources

Definition: Materials or substances occurring in nature which can be exploited for economic gain.

Example: Water, trees, and minerals are essential natural resources that need to be conserved.

 

Sustainable Products

Definition: Products that are produced in a way that does not deplete natural resources and can be maintained for the long term.

Example: Buying sustainable products like recycled paper helps reduce environmental impact.

 

Wildlife

Definition: Animals, birds, and other living things that are not domesticated.

Example: Protecting wildlife means ensuring that animals like tigers and elephants can live in their natural habitats.

 

Conservation Organizations

Definition: Groups dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural environment and wildlife.

Example: Organizations like WWF and Greenpeace work to conserve natural habitats and protect endangered species.

 

Greenhouse Gases

Definition: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

Example: Carbon dioxide and methane are common greenhouse gases that result from burning fossil fuels.

 

Renewable Energy

Definition: Energy from sources that are naturally replenishing and sustainable over long periods.

Example: Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are forms of renewable energy that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Deforestation

Definition: The clearing or thinning of forests by humans.

Example: Deforestation for agriculture and urban development reduces biodiversity and contributes to climate change.

 

Ecosystem

Definition: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Example: Coral reefs are fragile ecosystems that support a diverse range of marine life.

 

Emissions

Definition: The act of releasing something, especially gas or radiation.

Example: Car emissions are a major source of air pollution in urban areas.

 

Endangered Species

Definition: Species that are at risk of extinction due to loss of habitat, hunting, or other factors.

Example: The giant panda is an endangered species that requires special protection efforts.

 

Volunteering

Definition: Offering time and service freely without financial compensation.

Example: Volunteering with a local conservation group can help protect local wildlife and habitats.