Essential Vocabulary for Environmental and Urban Studies

Environmental and Ecological Terms

• Drought: A long period with little or no rain.
• Creatures: Living beings (animals, insects, etc.).
• Soil erosion: The gradual wearing away of soil.
• Breed: To raise animals so they produce young.
• By law: According to official rules or regulations.
• Reusable: Can be used many times.
• Single-use: Designed to be used once.
• Biodegradable: Able to break down naturally.
• Biofuels: Fuels made from living things or organic waste.
• Population: All the people living in a place.
• Restore: To return something to a good condition.
• Recovery: The process of getting something back or improving.
• Greenhouse gas emissions: Gases (like CO₂) that trap heat in the atmosphere.
• Energy-saving: Using little electricity or power.
• Bank (river bank): Land along the side of a river.
• Ecosystem: All living things in an area and how they interact.
• Domestic: Not wild; relating to the home or farm animals.
• Approval: A positive opinion or agreement.
• Die out: To become extinct.
• Bare: Uncovered; not protected or clothed.
• Campaign: Organized actions to achieve a goal (often political or social).
• Enable: To make something possible.
• Course: A series of classes or lessons.
• Absent: Not present.

Urban and Travel Vocabulary

• Overcrowded / Overpopulated: Too many people in one place.
• Landmark: An important or famous place.
• Set foot in: To enter a place.
• Pass (ticket/pass): Something that allows entry.
• Tide: The rise and fall of the sea.
• Select / Exclusive: Limited to certain people.
• Neighbouring: Nearby.
• Skyline: The outline of a city’s buildings.
• Jump the queue: Go ahead of others in line.
• Move on: Continue to the next thing.
• Outskirts: Areas outside the city center.
• Stroll: Walk in a relaxed way.
• Serve: Provide a service.
• Admission: Entrance (often paid).
• Complimentary: Free (given as a gift).
• Picturesque / Idyllic: Very beautiful and peaceful.
• Amenity: A useful facility or service.
• Free of charge: At no cost.
• Metropolitan area: A large city and surrounding areas.
• Suburb: Residential area outside the city center.
• Feel free: You are allowed to do something.
• Capture: Attract attention or take a photo.
• Era: A period of time.
• Commute: Travel regularly to work or school.
• Contrast: A clear difference.