Environmental Challenges: Understanding and Addressing Key Issues
Classified in Geology
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1. The Greenhouse Effect
Causes
- Burning of fossil fuels
- Deforestation, hindering CO2 absorption by plants
- Gas emissions from industries and vehicles
Consequences
- Potential global temperature increase of 1.5 to 4.5°C
- Significant impact on regional climates
- Loss of plant and animal life
- Disruption of agriculture and increased food insecurity
- Exacerbated water scarcity and disease
- Melting of glaciers and polar ice caps
Prevention
- Transitioning to alternative energy sources
2. Ozone Depletion
Causes
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Consequences
- Increased UV radiation leading to skin cancer, vision problems, and weakened immune systems
Prevention
- Banning CFCs (which has shown positive results)
3. Acid Rain
Causes
- Industrial emissions
Consequences
- Damage to vegetation
- Acidification of rivers and water bodies
Prevention
- Regulation of industrial and residential emissions
4. Wastewater Pollution
Causes
- Residential, commercial, and public wastewater
- Industrial waste
- Untreated sewage
- Surface runoff
Consequences
- Contamination of water sources
- Spread of diseases
- Harm to aquatic life
Prevention
- Improved wastewater management and treatment
5. Overexploitation of Ecosystems
Causes
- Excessive consumption of biomass
- Polluting activities
Consequences
- Biodiversity loss
- Overharvesting of resources
- Depletion of fish populations
Prevention
- Regulations and penalties for overfishing and unsustainable resource extraction