Environmental Problems, Causes and Measures for a Sustainable Future
Environmental Problems and Human Activities
In developing countries, family planning (kazoku keikaku) is a policy aimed at suppressing the birth rate. Increased consumption also calls for countermeasures. Industrial pollution (kōgai) is a major source of pollution, and governments must take measures (kōjiru) to address it.
Global Environmental Destruction
Global warming and ozone layer destruction are global-scale environmental problems caused by human activities. Although the downward trend of some substances has been observed, solving these problems is extremely difficult. Some even describe the goal as freeing the human race from these threats.
Environmental destruction has explosively expanded and resulted in difficult problems. To examine these issues, an international organization was established (hossoku) and a conference was held (kaisai) to warn of risks and negotiate solutions.
Global Warming and Its Causes
The average global temperature has been rising. Scientists analyze whether the cause is natural or anthropogenic (jin'i). In the worst case, a serious situation is possible, so countries must act.
Energy, Economy and Emissions
- Wealthy countries with high gross national product (GNP) consume large amounts of energy.
- The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) raised oil prices, which significantly reduced consumption.
- Energy efficiency improvements have progressed rapidly.
- Wind power and solar energy are promoted as alternative energy sources.
- Some countries maintain stable growth and have experienced rapid economic growth, yet this can cause environmental pollution.
The principal energy sources emit carbon dioxide (CO2), which must be reduced. The pursuit of prosperity should not come at the cost of the environment. Building cooperation beyond national borders is essential to take measures against these problems.
Effective Use of Finite Resources
Using finite resources effectively is key to global warming countermeasures. Of course, producing new products and delivering them to consumers is not always the answer. Wasting resources rather than saving them requires great effort, and simply making more products is not necessarily good.
Reducing Consumption and Environmental Burden
To reduce the consumption of natural resources and lessen the burden on the environment, the first step is to reduce waste. The guiding principles are:
- Reduce waste at the source.
- Reuse products whenever possible.
- Recycle materials to return them to use.
The Carbon Cycle and Ecosystems
Organisms emit CO2, which is then absorbed again by plants and other organisms. This circulation maintains the ecosystem. Unnecessary emissions disrupt this natural balance, so reducing waste helps protect it.
Toward a Recycling-Oriented Society
Building a recycling-oriented society (junkangata shakai) helps conserve resources, reduce emissions and protect ecosystems for future generations.