essay about how we can protect the environment

Environmental Protection Essay

The environmental protection essay is a great way to assist the little ones in understanding how to protect the environment. Environmental protection has emerged as one of the major challenges in the world for centuries and has always been important to humans. As of late, it has seen a dramatic change in environmental policy, primarily through the use of the law. One way that law is used to protect the environment is by enacting government regulations on pollution and preventing environmental degradation.

Environmental protection is an integral part of today’s society, but many people lack even basic knowledge on what they can do to help protect our environment. The destruction of the environment and the depletion of natural resources are significant issues that are ever-present. In this essay, there will be a list of ideas for participating in the fight against these problems. This essay on environmental protection describes the meaning and importance of environmental protection and also teaches the right method to preserve the environment.

How to Protect the Environment Essay

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment against various human activities that degrade, destroy, or otherwise reduce its quality for future generations. Environmental protection has become a widespread issue in recent decades as human pressures on the environment have increased exponentially.

There are many ways to protect the environment. One way to protect the environment is by recycling – a way to reduce the carbon footprint and conserve natural resources. It also decreases the amount of waste that goes into landfills, which causes less pollution to water bodies. Another way is to use eco-friendly products in your life. This can contribute to a healthier environment by reducing the number of harmful chemicals and toxins in the air, ground, and water.

To protect the environment, we should be conscious of what we consume and how we consume it. Many factors affect the quality of our air, water, and land, but it is best to start small by always considering its impact on the environment.

Afforestation and tree plantation help protect our environment by reducing global warming, soil erosion, etc. We can reduce our carbon footprint through carpooling instead of driving, which is cheaper and reduces our energy usage and emissions.

For more essays similar to the environmental protection essay, visit BYJU’S website. You can also find more exciting kids’ learning resources, such as poems, stories, worksheets, etc., on the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is environmental protection.

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment by maintaining the quality of air, water, land or ecosystem. The effects that humans have on their environment create issues for the natural environment. This can include air pollution, water pollution, and degradation of land. Governments and people are involved with environmental protection through policies and regulations.

How to protect the environment?

Environmental protection has seen a dramatic change, especially through environmental laws. These laws call for reducing pollution and environmental degradation.

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Protecting the Environment Argumentative Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Protecting the environment is the act of taking care of natural resources and using them rationally to prevent annihilation and pollution. It also involves the use of comprehensive management measures that can create an environment that supports human activities and life.

Protecting the environment creates sustainable development in an economy. An attractive, natural environment encourages both domestic, and international tourism and this create revenue for the country.

Tourism also contributes to the economic growth of a nation as it leads to the creation of jobs for many people (Holden 177). Some people work as tour guides and agents while others work in food and accommodation sector.

Protecting the environment also attracts many foreign investors into the country. Foreign investors invest their money and introduce industries in other nations, thus promoting economic growth (Goodstein 26).

If a country has a terrible environment, investors will avoid making businesses there, and this reduces economic development in a country.

Another way that protecting the environment creates sustainable development is through preservation of natural resources. Most development activities make use of natural resources, and if the environment lacks protection, such resources may become depleted, thus, making further developments impossible.

Also, environmental protection causes sustainable development as governments cut the money spent on health-care costs. A good natural environment protects human beings from diseases like skin cancer, cataracts and other illnesses that arise due to environmental pollution. This, in turn, makes governments cut down on health costs.

Protecting the environment enhances welfare of human beings. People suffer from health-related issues in areas where the environment gets stressed (Frumkin et al. 4). A harmful environment is accountable for almost a quarter of the worldwide disease problem.

In emerging nations, use of incompetent wood-burning stoves to make food causes illnesses. A rising figure of cleaner and more competent stoves, which cut down both the amount of biomass that needs collection to fuel the stove and domestic airborne particulates, are becoming obtainable.

Proper environmental management can lessen the risk of malaria through destroying mosquito habitats, breeding mosquitoes that are resistant to the malaria parasite as well as reducing populations of mosquitoes.

This fact also relates with the concept of sustainable development as health is a vital element in sustainable development. Sick families cannot meet their daily needs, a mother with respiratory tract infections could be unable to take proper care of the family and a sick child is likely to miss school, or underperform in academics.

Protecting the environment enhances continuity of life. The world has limited resources, and rapid consumption of these resources by humans has led to severe environmental degradation. Failure to protect the environment is a crime as it means that we do not care about future generations.

Therefore, we must attach significance to protection of the environment so that we can give future generations a better living space.

As a result of failing to protect the environment, we continue experiencing much retribution from nature. For instance, there is scarcity in land resources due to expansion of towns and industrial development (Rubio 9).

Besides, there is pollution in lakes and rivers due to the large waste that factories emit. The number of deserts has also increased due to continuous cutting of trees. Toxic gas and liquid air have also caused pollution of water supplies.

Protecting the environment secures both plant and animal lives through preventing ozone depletion. The most common causes of ozone depletion are releasing harmful gases into the atmosphere and cutting down of trees. Depletion of ozone makes higher levels of ultra violet rays to hit into the earth’s surface (McMichael 61).

These rays may cause skin cancer and cataracts among human beings. Equally, ultra violet rays affect growth of plants and aquatic food systems. These rays affect nutrient distribution in plants as well as secondary metabolism, thus causing disease in plants.

Besides, ultra violet rays affect the euphotic zone, which limits productivity of phytoplankton. The euphotic zone is the top cover of water column where there is adequate light to promote net productivity.

Although most phytoplankton can move actively to enhance their efficiency and, thus, their continued existence, contact with ultra violet rays from the sun affects survival rates of phytoplankton. Also, ultra violet rays from the sun affect early developmental phases of shrimp, fish, amphibians and crabs.

Other dangerous effects of ultra violet rays to aquatic life include decreased reproductive ability and weakened development of larvae (McMichael 63).

Considering present levels, solar radiation is a restrictive feature, and small raises in ultra violet exposure could cause noteworthy decrease in the number of animals that feed on these minor organisms.

In conclusion, protecting the environment is essential for enhanced human and plant life, continuity of life, sustainable development of an economy as well as economic enhancement. Natural resources are essential for life on earth, and thus they need protection. Failure to protect the environment may affect future generations of both plants and animals.

Works Cited

Frumkin, Howard, Richard Jackson, and Christine Coussens. Health and the Environment in the Southeastern United States , Washington, D.C: National Academy Press, 2002. Print.

Goodstein, Eban. Economics and the Environment, Hoboken, N.J: John Wiley and Sons, 2011. Print.

Holden, Andrew. Environment and Tourism , New York, NY: Routledge, 2008. Print.

McMichael, Asunta. Climate Change and Human Health: Risks and Responses , Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization, 2003. Print.

Rubio, Jose. Water scarcity, Land Degradation and Desertification in the Mediterranean Region Environmental and Security Aspects , Dordrecht, MA: Springer, 2009. Print.

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IvyPanda. (2019, June 18). Protecting the Environment. https://ivypanda.com/essays/protecting-the-environment/

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• Environmental Protection Essay

Essay on Environmental Protection

Environmental protection is improving, defending, and maintaining the quality of the environment. The main methods of environmental protection are recycling, reusing, and reducing; however, some other methods such as Green Energy production, green transportation development, and eco-friendly industrialization also exist. Not only residents but also businesses and industries should play their basic roles to improve the environment.

The History of Environmental Protection  

Humankind has always been concerned about the environment. The ancient Greeks were the first to develop environmental philosophy, and they were followed by other major civilizations such as India and China. In more recent times, the concern for the environment has increased because of growing awareness of the ecological crisis. The Club of Rome, a think tank, was among the first to warn the world about the dangers of overpopulation and pollution in its report "The Limits to Growth" (1972).

In the early days of environmentalism, people thought that the best way to protect nature was to set aside areas where humans would not disturb the environment. This approach, which is known as preservation, was given a major boost in the United States with the establishment of the National Park Service in 1916.

The modern environmental movement began in the 1960s when concerns about the negative impact of humans on the environment began to increase. In response to these concerns, governments around the world began to pass legislation to protect the environment. In the United States, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in 1970.

The Principles of Environmental Protection

There are three fundamental principles of environmental protection:

The precautionary principle: This principle states that if an activity has the potential to cause harm to the environment, then steps should be taken to prevent that harm even if there is no clear evidence that the activity is damaging.

The polluter pays principle: This states that the party responsible for causing pollution should be held responsible for cleaning it up.

The public right to know the principle: This principle states that the public has a right to know about any potential threats to the environment and what is being done to address them.

The goals of Environmental Protection

There are three main goals of environmental protection:

To protect human health: This is the most important goal of environmental protection because humans cannot survive without a healthy environment.

To protect ecosystems: Ecosystems are the foundation of life on Earth, and they provide many benefits to humans, such as clean air and water, food, and fiber.

To promote sustainable development: Sustainable development is a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Environmental protection is a practice that aims to protect the natural environment from the hands of individuals, organizations, and governments. It is the need of the hour because the Earth's environment is deteriorating every day, and the reasons are human beings. They are mishandling the Earth's environment to fulfill their needs. If it goes like this, then it is difficult to say that the future generation will have a safer environment to live in. Through this essay, you will learn the importance of environmental protection.

A Long Essay on Environmental Protection

It is imperative to protect our natural environment from deteriorating, and the only way to do that is through environmental protection. This process should be adopted by every country as soon as possible before it is too late. The objective of this process is to conserve all the natural resources and try to repair some parts of the environment that are possible to get repaired. The biophysical environment is getting degraded permanently because of overconsumption, population growth, and the rapid development of technology. This can be stopped if the government plan strategies to restrict these activities to perform in a controlled way. This environmental protection essay can be a great help for the students to understand the environment they are living in.

Voluntary Environmental Agreements

Voluntary environmental agreements are getting popular in most industrial countries. Through this free essay on environmental protection, one will learn more about this type of agreement. These agreements provide the companies with a platform where they are recognized if they are moving beyond the minimum regulatory standards for protecting the environment. These agreements support the development of one of the best environmental practices. For example, the India Environment Improvement Trust (EIT) has been working in this environment field since the year 1998. Through this environmental protection essay, one is getting so much to learn.

Ecosystems Approach

An ecosystem approach to environmental protection aims to consider the complex interrelationships of the ecosystem as a whole to the process of decision making rather than just focusing on specific issues and challenges. The environmental protection essay writing will give a more precise overview of this approach. The ecosystems approach aims to support the better transferring of information, develop strategies that can resolve conflicts, and improve regional conservation. This approach has played a major role in protecting the environment. This approach also says that religions also play an important role in the conservation of the environment.

International Environmental Agreements

In the present scenario, many of the Earth's natural resources have become vulnerable because of humans and their carelessness towards the environment across different countries. As a result of this, many countries and their governments have come into different agreements to reduce the human impact on the natural environment and protect it from getting deterioration. Through this environmental protection essay in English, one will get a much clearer view on this matter particularly.

The agreements made between different governments of various countries are known as International Environmental Agreements. This agreement includes factors such as climate, oceans, rivers, and air pollution. These agreements are sometimes legally bound, and in case they are not followed, it may lead to some legal implications. These agreements have a long history with some multinational agreements that were made in the year 1910 in Europe, America, and Africa. Some of the most well-known international agreements are the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. Through this environmental protection essay, it is clear that governments are taking steps to solve the environmental issue, but it is not enough.

A Short Paragraph on Environmental Protection in English

Earth is a beautiful place to live in, with the most favorable environmental conditions for living beings. But we humans are making it vulnerable and are destroying our own homes with activities that are causing pollution at an increased rate. In this protecting the environment essay, 200 words will be explained properly on how to save the environment.

Environmental protection has become the need of the hour as it is getting destroyed each day. So, governments are making policies and are coming into agreements with other countries to come up with strategies that can protect the environment. Some companies also have the same aim of protecting the environment from the activities of humans.

In this short article on environmental protection, it is clear that if sudden steps are not taken then, our future generation will have to live in a polluted environment that is conserved very conserve difficult. Environmental protection is the key to a safe and secure future with a beautiful environment to live in. 

With pollution increasing each year and causing deterioration of the natural environment, it has become necessary to take steps to protect the natural environment. As we know that the reason for all these problems is humans, governments should make policies to restrict their activities that are causing harm to the environment. If they are not stopped urgently, then the world might see some catastrophic destruction in the coming years. For example, climate change has been a huge problem, and this is one of the causes of increased pollution. A secured future depends on the environment as a whole.

FAQs on Environmental Protection Essay

1. What are International Environmental Agreements?

International environmental agreements are legal contracts between countries that discuss the protection of the environment to provide better living to present and future generations. These include issues such as climate, oceans, rivers, air pollution, etc. we should always consider that if we harm our environment, then it can affect us as well, and we will become more vulnerable. If we do not take action now, it might get a lot worse. We need to be the generation that starts taking care of our planet and future generations!

2. What is the Kyoto Protocol?

The Kyoto Protocol is one of the most well-known and successful international environmental agreements that has been made in the past to protect the environment. This agreement between countries was made to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases which are causing damage to the ozone layer and climate change. With the help of Kyoto, protocol countries have reduced emission rates by 8% and are planning to reduce them more so that future generations can live in a healthy environment in which they can flourish.

3. What is the Paris Agreement?

The Paris Agreement was made in 2015 to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and to stop climate change. This agreement is very important as it includes every country in the world, and all have agreed to work together to stop climate change. This is a huge step forward as it means that everyone is now working together to try to save our planet. If we try to solve these problems together, then we will have a chance to save our planet.

4. What is the Green Climate Fund?

The Green Climate Fund comes from an agreement made in 2010 to provide money for developing countries that are going through issues such as deforestation and air pollution by making them more sustainable. This fund has a goal of collecting 100 billion dollars by 2020 for supporting developing countries. If this can happen, then many lives can be saved, and we will be able to see a lot of positive changes in the coming years and decades so that we can see an improved environment.

5. What are some activities that harm the Environment?

Some activities that harm the environment include burning fossil fuels, deforestation, air pollution, and wastewater discharge. These activities harm not only the environment but also humans, and we must take action now to reduce the impact which we are causing. For example, the burning of fossil fuels is one of the main reasons for climate change and air pollution, which both have a huge impact on humans. If we stop these activities, then it will be a lot better for everyone!

6. How can we protect the Environment?

Environmental protection is very much required in today's time. Some of the ways to protect the environment are to reduce, reuse, recycle, conserve water, save electricity, clean up the community, educate people on pollution, conserve water, preserve soil, tree plantation, use long-lasting bulbs, and plant trees. Heaven these are the ways which help us to protect the environment from getting polluted.

7.  Why is Environmental Protection Important?

The ecosystem in which we live provides the natural services that are very much important to humans and other species for health, quality of life, and survival. So to protect that, environmental protection is very important. Hence, governments of various countries should make strategies to protect our natural environment from getting polluted.

Essay on Save Earth for Students and Children

500+ words essay on save earth.

Earth and the resources of earth make life possible on it. If we were to imagine our lives without these resources, that would not be possible. As life cannot function without sunshine , air, vegetation , and water . However, this is soon going to be our reality if we do not save the earth now.

The resources earth provides us with are limited. They are blessings which we do not count. Human has become selfish and is utilizing the earth’s resources at a rapid rate. We need to protect them in order to protect our lives. This is so because man and all living organisms depend on the earth for their survival.

It is The Need of the Hour

To say that saving the earth is the need of the hour would be an understatement. All the activities of humans driven by greed and selfishness have caused immense damage to the earth. It is degraded it beyond repair. Almost all the natural resources are now polluted due to these activities.

When all these resources will be under threat, naturally lives of all living organisms will be under peril. This is why we need to save the earth at all costs. All the other issues are secondary and saving the earth is the main concern. For when the earth will not remain, the other issues will go away automatically.

Earth is the only planet which can sustain life on it. We do not have a planet B which we can move onto. This makes it all the more serious to save the earth and save our lives. If we do not take strict actions now, we will lose the chance of seeing our future generations flourish forever. Everyone must come together for the same causes, as we are inhabitants of this planet firstly and then anything else.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

How to Save Earth

As all human activities are impacting the lives of other organisms, humans only need to take steps to protect the earth and its resources. A little effort will go a long way on everyone’s end. Each action will make a difference. For instance, if one man decides to stop drinking bottled water, thousands of plastic can be saved from consuming.

Furthermore, we can start by planting more trees to make up for the deforestation that is happening these days at a rapid rate. When we plant more trees, ecological balance can be restored and we can improve the quality of life.

Similarly, we must stop wasting water. When done on individual levels, this will create a huge impact on conserving water. We must not pollute our water bodies by dumping waste in it. It is essential to save water most importantly as it is running out rapidly.

In short, the government and individuals must come together to save the earth. We can make people aware of the consequences of not saving the earth. They can be taught ways and how they can contribute to saving the earth. If all this collective effort starts happening, we can surely save our planet earth and make brighter earth.

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Essay on Environment: Examples & Tips

• Updated on  
• May 30, 2022

In the 21st century, the Environmental crisis is one of the biggest issues. The world has been potentially impacted by the resulting hindrance in the environmental balance, due to the rising in industrialization and urbanization. This led to several natural calamities which creates an everlasting severe impact on the environment for years. To familiarize students with the importance environment, the subject ‘Environmental Studies’ is part of the curriculum in primary, secondary as well as higher school education. To test the knowledge of the students related to Environment, a question related to the topic in the form of essay or article writing is included in the exam. This blog aims to focus on providing details to students on the way, they can draft a well-written essay on Environment.

This Blog Includes:

Overview on environment, tips on writing an effective essay, format (150 words), sample essay on environment, environment essay (100 words), essay on environment (200-250 words), environment essay (300 words), world environment day.

To begin the essay on Environment, students must know what it is all about. Biotic (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and abiotic (non-living physical factors) components in our surroundings fall under the terminology of the environment. Everything that surrounds us is a part of the environment and facilitates our existence on the planet.

Before writing an effective essay on Environment, another thing students need to ensure is to get familiarised with the structure of essay writing. The major tips which students need to keep in mind, while drafting the essay are:

• Research on the given topic thoroughly : The students must research the topic given in the essay, for example: while drafting an essay on the environment, students must mention the recent events, so to provide the reader with a view into their understanding of this concept.
• Jot down the important points: When the students research the topic, students must note down the points which need to be included in the essay.
• Quote down the important examples: Students must quote the important examples in the introductory paragraphs and the subsequent paragraphs as well.
• Revise the Essay: The student after finishing writing students must revise the content to locate any grammatical errors as well as other mistakes.

Essay on Environment: Format & Samples

Now that you are aware of the key elements of drafting an essay on Environment, take a look at the format of essay writing first:

Introduction

The student must begin the essay by, detailing an overview of the topic in a very simple way in around 30-40 words. In the introduction of the essay on Environment, the student can make it interesting by recent instances or adding questions.

Body of Content

The content after the introduction can be explained in around 80 words, on a given topic in detail. This part must contain maximum detail in this part of the Essay. For the Environment essay, students can describe ways the environment is hampered and different ways to prevent and protect it.

In the essay on Environment, students can focus on summing the essay in 30-40 words, by writing its aim, types, and purposes briefly. This section must swaddle up all the details which are explained in the body of the content.

Below is a sample of an Essay on Environment to give you an idea of the way to write one:

The natural surroundings that enable life to thrive, nurture, and destroy on our planet called earth are referred to as an environment. The natural environment is vital to the survival of life on Earth, allowing humans, animals, and other living things to thrive and evolve naturally. However, our ecosystem is being harmed as a result of certain wicked and selfish human actions. It is the most essential issue, and everyone should understand how to safeguard our environment and maintain the natural balance on this planet for life to continue to exist.

Nature provides an environment that nourishes life on the planet. The environment encompasses everything humans need to live, including water, air, sunshine, land, plants, animals, forests, and other natural resources. Our surroundings play a critical role in enabling the existence of healthy life on the planet. However, due to man-made technical advancements in the current period, our environment is deteriorating day by day. As a result, environmental contamination has risen to the top of our priority list.

Environmental pollution has a detrimental impact on our everyday lives in a variety of ways, including socially, physically, economically, emotionally, and cognitively. Contamination of the environment causes a variety of ailments that can last a person’s entire life. It is not a problem of a neighborhood or a city; it is a global issue that cannot be handled by a single person’s efforts. It has the potential to end life in a day if it is not appropriately handled. Every ordinary citizen should participate in the government’s environmental protection effort.

Between June 5 and June 16, World Environment Day is commemorated to raise awareness about the environment and to educate people about its importance. On this day, awareness initiatives are held in a variety of locations.

The environment is made up of plants, animals, birds, reptiles, insects, water bodies, fish, humans, trees, microbes, and many other things. Furthermore, they all contribute to the ecosystem.

The physical, social, and cultural environments are the three categories of environments. Besides, various scientists have defined different types and numbers of environments.

1. Do not leave rubbish in public areas. 2. Minimize the use of plastic 3. Items should be reduced, reused, and recycled. 4. Prevent water and soil contamination

Hope the blog has given you an idea of how to write an essay on the Environment. If you are planning to study abroad and want help in writing your essays, then let Leverage Edu be your helping hand. Our experts will assist you in writing an excellent SOP for your study abroad consultant application. 

Sonal is a creative, enthusiastic writer and editor who has worked extensively for the Study Abroad domain. She splits her time between shooting fun insta reels and learning new tools for content marketing. If she is missing from her desk, you can find her with a group of people cracking silly jokes or petting neighbourhood dogs.

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Environmental Education — Protecting The Environment

Protecting The Environment

• Categories: Environmental Education

About this sample

Words: 742 |

Published: Jun 13, 2024

Words: 742 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Ecological health, human welfare, economic stability, global responsibility.

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1. Spread the word

Encourage your friends, family and co-workers to reduce their carbon pollution. Join a global movement like  Count Us In, which aims to inspire 1 billion people to take practical steps and challenge their leaders to act more boldly on climate. Organizers of the platform say that if 1 billion people took action, they could reduce as much as 20 per cent of global carbon emissions. Or you could sign up to the UN’s  #ActNow campaign on climate change and sustainability and add your voice to this critical global debate.

2. Keep up the political pressure

Lobby local politicians and businesses to support efforts to cut emissions and reduce carbon pollution.  #ActNow Speak Up  has sections on political pressure and corporate action - and Count Us In also has  some handy tips  for how to do this. Pick an environmental issue you care about, decide on a specific request for change and then try to arrange a meeting with your local representative. It might seem intimidating but your voice deserves to be heard. If humanity is to succeed in tackling the climate emergency, politicians must be part of the solution. It’s up to all of us to keep up with the pressure. 

3. Transform your transport

Transport accounts for around a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions and across the world, many governments are implementing policies to decarbonize travel. You can get a head start: leave your car at home and walk or cycle whenever possible. If the distances are too great, choose public transport, preferably electric options. If you must drive, offer to carpool with others so that fewer cars are on the road. Get ahead of the curve and buy an electric car. Reduce the number of long-haul flights you take. 

4. Rein in your power use

If you can, switch to a zero-carbon or renewable energy provider. Install solar panels on your roof. Be more efficient: turn your heating down a degree or two, if possible. Switch off appliances and lights when you are not using them and better yet buy the most efficient products in the first place (hint: this will save you money!). Insulate your loft or roof: you’ll be warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and save some money too. 

5. Tweak your diet

Eat more plant-based meals – your body and the planet will thank you. Today, around 60 per cent of the world’s agricultural land is used for livestock grazing and people in many countries are consuming more animal-sourced food than is healthy. Plant-rich diets can help reduce chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer.

The climate emergency demands action from all of us. We need to get to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and everyone has a role to play.

6. Shop local and buy sustainable

To reduce your food’s carbon footprint, buy local and seasonal foods. You’ll be helping small businesses and farms in your area and reducing fossil fuel emissions associated with transport and cold chain storage. Sustainable agriculture uses up to 56 per cent less energy, creates 64 per cent fewer emissions and allows for greater levels of biodiversity than conventional farming. Go one step further and try growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs. You can plant them in a garden, on a balcony or even on a window sill. Set up a community garden in your neighbourhood to get others involved. 

7. Don’t waste food

One-third of all food produced is either lost or wasted. According to UNEP’s  Food Waste Index Report 2021 , people globally waste 1 billion tonnes of food each year, which accounts for around 8-10 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Avoid waste by only buying what you need. Take advantage of every edible part of the foods you purchase. Measure portion sizes of rice and other staples before cooking them, store food correctly (use your freezer if you have one), be creative with leftovers, share extras with your friends and neighbours and contribute to a local food-sharing scheme. Make compost out of inedible remnants and use it to fertilize your garden. Composting is one of the best options for managing organic waste while also reducing environmental impacts.

8. Dress (climate) smart

The fashion industry accounts for 8-10 per cent of global carbon emissions – more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined – and ‘fast fashion’ has created a throwaway culture that sees clothes quickly end up in landfills. But we can change this. Buy fewer new clothes and wear them longer. Seek out sustainable labels and use rental services for special occasions rather than buying new items that will only be worn once. Recycle pre-loved clothes and repair when necessary.

9. Plant trees  

Every year approximately 12 million hectares of forest are destroyed and this deforestation, together with agriculture and other land use changes, is responsible for roughly 25 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. We can all play a part in reversing this trend by planting trees, either individually or as part of a collective. For example, the Plant-for-the-Planet initiative allows people to sponsor tree-planting around the world.

Check out this UNEP guide to see what else you can do as part of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration , a global drive to halt the degradation of land and oceans, protect biodiversity, and rebuild ecosystems. 

10. Focus on planet-friendly investments

Individuals can also spur change through their savings and investments by choosing financial institutions that do not invest in carbon-polluting industries. #ActNow Speak Up  has a section on money and so does  Count Us In . This sends a clear signal to the market and already many financial institutions are offering more ethical investments, allowing you to use your money to support causes you believe in and avoid those you don’t. You can ask your financial institution about their responsible banking policies and find out how they rank in independent research. 

UNEP is at the front in support of the Paris Agreement goal of keeping the global temperature rise well below 2°C, and aiming - to be safe - for 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. To do this, UNEP has developed a Six-Sector Solution . The Six Sector Solution is a roadmap to reducing emissions across sectors in line with the Paris Agreement commitments and in pursuit of climate stability. The six sectors identified are Energy; Industry; Agriculture & Food; Forests & Land Use; Transport; and Buildings & Cities.

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Further Resources

• 7 climate action highlights to remember before COP26
• Climate Action Note - data you need to know
• Emissions Gap Report 2021
• Food Waste Index 2021
• Act Now: the UN campaign for individual action
• Count Us In
• Food Loss and Waste Website

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Human Impacts on the Environment

Humans impact the physical environment in many ways: overpopulation, pollution, burning fossil fuels, and deforestation. Changes like these have triggered climate change, soil erosion, poor air quality, and undrinkable water. These negative impacts can affect human behavior and can prompt mass migrations or battles over clean water.

Help your students understand the impact humans have on the physical environment with these classroom resources.

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Essay on Ways to Protect The Environment

Students are often asked to write an essay on Ways to Protect The Environment in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Ways to Protect The Environment

Understanding the environment.

The environment is our home. It provides us with air, water, food, and shelter. But, it is in danger due to pollution, deforestation, and climate change.

Reducing Waste

We can protect the environment by reducing waste. We can reuse and recycle items instead of throwing them away. This reduces the amount of waste in landfills.

Conserving Water

Water is a precious resource. We can conserve it by taking shorter showers and fixing leaky faucets. This helps to preserve our water supply.

Planting Trees

Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a harmful greenhouse gas. By planting trees, we can fight climate change and provide habitats for wildlife.

250 Words Essay on Ways to Protect The Environment

Introduction.

The environment is our life-support system, providing the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. Its protection is not just a responsibility but a necessity for our survival. College students can play a significant role in this endeavor.

Adopting Sustainable Practices

The adoption of sustainable practices is a crucial step towards environmental protection. This includes minimizing waste, recycling, and reusing items as much as possible. It also involves choosing products with less packaging, using reusable shopping bags, and opting for digital versions of documents and bills to reduce paper waste.

Energy Conservation

Energy conservation is another effective way to protect the environment. By turning off lights, electronics, and appliances when not in use, we can significantly reduce our energy consumption. Additionally, using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs can further decrease energy use.

Green Transportation

Transportation is a major contributor to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Opting for greener modes of transportation, such as walking, biking, carpooling, or using public transit, can help reduce these impacts.

Supporting Sustainable Businesses

Supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability can also promote environmental protection. These companies often employ practices that minimize their environmental footprint, such as using renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and sourcing materials responsibly.

In conclusion, protecting the environment requires concerted efforts at individual and collective levels. By adopting sustainable practices, conserving energy, choosing green transportation, and supporting sustainable businesses, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world.

500 Words Essay on Ways to Protect The Environment

The environment is a crucial aspect of our existence, providing us with essential resources and services. However, human activities have led to environmental degradation, threatening the planet’s health and our survival. This essay explores ways to protect the environment, focusing on sustainable practices, technology, policy, and education.

Sustainable Practices

Embracing sustainable practices is an effective way to protect the environment. This includes reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, which minimizes the pressure on natural resources and reduces pollution. For instance, composting organic waste can provide nutrient-rich soil for gardening, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, sustainable consumption, such as choosing products with minimal packaging or buying locally sourced goods, can significantly reduce our environmental footprint.

Technological Innovations

Policy interventions.

Policy interventions play a critical role in environmental protection. Governments can implement regulations to control pollution, manage resources, and promote sustainable practices. For example, emission standards can limit air pollution, while land use planning can protect ecosystems. Additionally, economic instruments, such as taxes or subsidies, can incentivize environmentally friendly practices. International cooperation is also vital, as environmental issues often transcend national boundaries.

Education and Awareness

Education and awareness are fundamental to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. Formal education should incorporate environmental studies to equip future generations with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges. Besides, public awareness campaigns can inform people about the environmental impact of their actions and motivate them to adopt sustainable practices. Social media can be a powerful tool in these efforts, reaching a wide audience and facilitating engagement.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Essay on Save Environment

List of essays on save environment, essay on save environment – short essay for kids (essay 1 – 100+ words), essay on save environment – 10 lines on save environment written in english (essay 2 – 250 words), essay on save environment (essay 3 – 300 words), essay on save environment – for children (essay 4 – 400 words), essay on save environment – for school students (class 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 standard) (essay 5 – 500 words), essay on save environment – introduction, importance, ways, challenges and conclusion (essay 6 – 600 words), essay on save environment – how to save environment (essay 7 – 750 words), essay on save environment – long essay for competitive exams like ias, ips and upsc (essay 8 – 1000 words).

“Save Environment” is a mantra that has developed to represents several acts aimed at preserving the sanctity of our environment. Our environment suffers from several risk factors.

Some of them stem from human interference while others are natural occurrences. Whether caused by humans or not, what is clear is that we must take action. Doing nothing might lead to severe consequences for our environment. These conscious acts are generally aimed at reducing greenhouse emissions thereby creating a safer environment.

Audience: The below given essays are exclusively written for school students (Class 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 Standard). Furthermore, those students preparing for competitive exams like IAS, IPS and UPSC can also increase their knowledge by studying these essays.

Introduction:

The air we breathe, the soil we live on, the trees which give us oxygen along with other flora and fauna on the earth all constitute the environment. It would have been impossible to survive on the earth had we not had such a supportive environment. However, with the surge in the urbanisation over the last few years we have seen a steady decline in the quality of the environment around us.

“Save environment” should be the priority of each and every person today. Environment constitutes the entire surroundings comprising water, air, sunlight, plants, animals, etc., that offer viable conditions for development and growth.

Reasons to Save Environment:

It is important to save environment as life of living beings is completely dependent on it. Humans utilize the water for drinking, air for breathing and also use other natural resources for their regular everyday jobs. In fact, the food we consume like milk, eggs, and vegetables, etc., are also derived from animals and plants, which is provided to us by the environment around us.

How to Save Environment:

Environment can be saved by planting more trees, recycling, reusing, reducing pollution, creating awareness through environmental programs, etc.

Conclusion:

If we want to save the environment then, we should stop the exploitation of natural resources. Using these resources cautiously is very important to save the environment.

In the so-called modern era, the biggest issue for the human race is to save environment and make earth a cleaner and greener planet. The human race has done a lot of damages to this world. Our surroundings have suffered the curse of pollution, exploitation of resources, and many other things. Now, it is our duty to take some important measures and save environment for future generations.

Industrialization has been the biggest source of pollution. To compensate for the fuel needs, we over exhausted most of the non-renewable resources, like coals, minerals, and oils. In order to save environment, we should switch to eco-friendly energy sources, such as solar power, hydropower, wind energy, etc.

Lots of public places use the ‘save environment’ posters and stickers to create awareness among the general public. We can also watch this burning issue being discussed on news channels. At schools, students are given the topic of ‘save environment’ for an essay writing or drawing purposes. This helps them understand global warming and its dangerous consequences.

It is hard to believe but we don’t always have to do something huge to save environment. Every person, even a child can contribute to the world’s ‘save environment’ goal. We can together do so by reducing the plastic usage, saving electricity, using solar power, and planting more trees in our surroundings. Doing this will not only save environment but also improve the quality of life for both animal and plant species and save them from going extinct.

The earth is called the ‘blue planet’ and it is the only one which sustains life but given the rate of anthropogenic exploitation, how long can we get on with our selfish attitude towards the environment?

The kind of damage that has been inflicted is palpable and the need has been felt to save environment sooner rather than later. The effect of global warming, the increase of greenhouses gases, the depletion of the ozone layer and the alarming levels of pollution are all an indicator of an impending catastrophe. Until and unless we know how to save environment and take remedial measure, our future is in grave hands.

What are the remedial measures to save environment?

Too many people complain that the damage is beyond the repair point, however, it is better to put an effort rather the sit and whine. The environment is capable of healing and all we need is to give it a push in the right direction in order to save environment.

1. Sustainable Living:

It is important to understand and imbibe the concept of sustainable living. It is the art of living wherein you use the current resources keeping in mind the needs of the future generation. We have to be mindful of how what and why we are consuming especially when it comes to the natural and non-renewable resources.

2. Tree Plantation to Save Environment:

First of all, we need to come with great afforestation and reforestation schemes to save environment. It is the depletion of the green cover that has done the highest damage.

3. Pollution Mitigation:

The next thing one needs to do immediately to save environment is to cut down the pollution level. From the controversial ‘odd-even’ schemes in New Delhi to the policy of banning firecrackers or bike and carpooling, every step counts.

The Conclusion:

So if you want to save environment, you need to be prepared to put in the best of efforts. It is the cumulative effort over a collective period of time which can help the environment heal again.

“Save Environment” is a mantra that has developed to represents several acts aimed at preserving the sanctity of our environment. Our environment suffers from several risk factors. Some of them stem from human interference while others are natural occurrences.

Whether caused by humans or not, what is clear is that we must take action. Doing nothing might lead to severe consequences for our environment. These conscious acts are generally aimed at reducing greenhouse emissions thereby creating a safer environment.

Acts that Save the Environment:

We already know that we must take action to save environment. It is also important to point out the types of action we must incorporate into our daily lives to keep our environment safe.

The following are some of the steps that can lead to a better and safe environment:

1. Control electricity consumption – Most of the powers we consume are not from renewable energy sources. While the world would be better served by renewable energy sources, it would be prudent to control electricity consumption in the meantime. To do this, we must curb wastage. Little acts like turning off the bulb would make a big difference in the long run.

2. Consume less water – As the world population grows, water scarcity is becoming a profound problem. While scientific advances to solve the world water problem, more immediate action is needed for a safe environment. Thus, we must inculcate the habit of consuming less water through water conservation practices.

3. Paper reduction – The paper we use comes from trees. These trees are cut down from their natural habitat leaving our environment exposed to the risk of global warming. To save our environment, we should embrace digital tools at our disposal and use less of paper. By doing so, we would reduce the demand for paper which invariably leads to less tree cutting.

4. Reuse – Most of the materials we use in our daily lives are not actual waste. They can be recycled and subsequently used for something else. Thus, when we use things such as plastic, elastic, metal and more, we should not simply throw those things away. With the right machinery and foresight, they can be turned to materials that translate into a safe environment.

To conclude, living in a safe environment goes beyond the actions mentioned above. The extent of our involvement cannot be exhausted to one single article. However, if we stay conscious of our environment and do not relent in taking steps that are pro-environment we would make our world a better place.

Environment is the surrounding in which we live in. It is the natural habitat around us, which is essential for life to thrive in. It constitutes of air, water, soil, animals and human beings.

We humans have a blind spot concerning the degree of dependence we have on our surroundings. Mindlessly, we build and industrialize our habitat in the name of advancement only to later realize that we have been destroying our surroundings all along. We still steadily go on with our reckless way of life without the slightest awareness of what we are doing to ourselves by destroying Mother Nature. It is very important to understand and save our environment.

Reasons for Environment Degradation:

1. Urbanization:

The hash one reason for environment degradation is Urbanization. We cut down trees, lay roads and build buildings for our sophistication, without even thinking about the implications caused by our actions. In the process we completely destroy our natural surroundings and seal ourselves inside un-natural habitats called cities.

2. Consumerism:

With the birth of Industrial revolution, manufacturing processes have speeded up to a fraction of the time taken by its handmade counterparts. This has led to mass production which in turn has led to mass consumerism, and before we knew it, we became a consumer-oriented society. Thus came the practice of ‘Use and Throw’ products, which causes rapid depletion of existing resources.

3. Pollution:

Today, almost every natural resource is polluted. Industries pollute our air with the harmful gases they exhale. Automobiles have greatly contributed to air pollution by polluting it with harmful smoke they let out. Burning of plastics has resulted in the depletion of Ozone layer. Industries pollute our rivers and other water bodies by draining chemicals and oils into them. Commonly used bath soaps and detergents are highly insoluble in water and pollute drainage water. Our soils are polluted by excessive use of chemical fertilizers.

Saving our environment and thereby ourselves is in the hands of each and every one of us. Small changes made to our everyday lifestyle are all we need to do to save environment.

‘Recycling’ our material things is one big step towards saving environment. Metal scraps from old buildings can be recycled and used for producing new metal items. Plastic recycling is another big solution. Paper and cardboard items can also be recycled into new products.

Use of materials like paper and wood can be ‘Reduced’ wherever possible. Fossil fuels are depleting natural resources which cannot be renewed. Use of petroleum can be reduced by opting carpooling and cycling. Coal is another non-renewable resource used extensively in electricity production. Energy efficient light bulbs and solar cars reduce the use of such fuels.

‘Reuse’ of products is another solution to save environment. Plastic covers can be reused to minimize their production. Plastic containers can be reused and repurposed into potting for plants. Tires can be repurposed into building blocks. Every product has the capacity to be repurposed if we allow ourselves to see it with an open eye.

‘Planting’ of more trees is a step towards a greener environment. Going back to traditional agricultural practices will save our environment.

By saving our environment we are only saving ourselves. This truth needs to sink deep into our hearts, which will cause our inner man to act responsibly to save our environment.

The environment is the most valuable component of life because it enables the existence of living and non-living things. The environment is a vast source of resources like air, shelter, food and water. Living things are dependent on the environment for the continuation of life. The environment should be sacred and respected by all living things because of it is important for survival. However, the environment is not given the respect it deserves because there are several incidences on environmental pollution. The pollution of environment contaminates all the resources required to sustain the life of living things and therefore the lives are affected negatively. The effects of environmental pollution have been serious and harmful. The environment needs to be saved from pollution so that the lives of living things can be saved from full destruction. Saving the environment begins by identifying the pollutants and trying to mitigate them. The causes of these pollutions need to be identified and then prevented as the damage that is already done is being repaired in order to restore the environment.

Importance of Saving the Environment:

The environment is the main source of life for living things on the earth’s surface. The trends of environmental pollution have compromised the lives of animate objects on earth. The threat to life has forced living things to survive. Survival is not possible for all organisms and therefore deaths have been experienced, which has to be prevented.

Saving the environment will enable the nature to thrive again and reduce the survival needed. The environment will be back to its rich resourceful nature.

Ways of Saving the Environment?

Formulating strategies for unifying people to initiate the saving of the environment. Saving the environment is a collective responsibility that requires cooperation and collaboration from organizations, societies, governments and individuals so that an effort is realized. Global call should be made so that the project to save environment is initiated as a whole.

Proper handling of waste materials should be done so that pollutants do not end up in the environment. The policy of recycling and reusing the recyclable and reusable wastes is a good way to save environment. Another strategy is effective planning of the cities according to the resources that are available. Cities that are unplanned end up in environmental crisis because the population might rise beyond what the environment can support. Also, crowding causes environmental pollution because there will be clearing of natural trees in order to build houses for people to live in.

Supporting of environmental programs by participating in activities aimed at saving the environment is another way to save environment. Change should be embraced with regard to environmental conservation e.g., the ban of plastic bags and bottles should be respected. In agriculture, it is recommended that organic fertilizers have to be used in order to minimize the amount of chemical washouts that end up in water bodies.

Planting of trees should be encouraged so that air pollution effects can be reduced because trees will replenish the air quality in the atmosphere and save environment.

Challenges in Saving the Environment:

The environment has been greatly damaged and it requires a lot of effort to restore it. Limited resources for example finances poses a challenge to the project to save the environment.

Climate change affects the restoration processes like planting trees because the trees might not be favoured by the climate to grow back as expected.

Political instabilities in countries cause stagnation in the process of saving the environment because they always lag behind.

The environment needs to be saved because it is the source of life and living things are dependent on it.

Human beings cannot live all alone on the earth. They need a host of other things to support their survival. For instance, the trees provide us with oxygen and rid the air of harmful carbon-dioxide. Similarly, soil provides us with nutrients through various plants which we consume in everyday life and provides us with a surface to live on.

The entire flora and fauna or rather the entire ecosystem are what constitutes the environment for us. It is our privilege to have been provided such a beautiful environment by nature. However, have been using it judiciously? Of course, not! We have largely ignored the individual requirements of the environment for our own benefits and thus have affected the natural balance of nature. This has in turn affected as well. So, in order to sustain mutual harmony and survival for all, we need to save the environment as well.

At the very start, we need to realise that saving the environment is for our own good. We need it more than other plants and animals around us. The environment is integral to our very survival on this planet. Losing it shall lead to our extinction as well. Although necessary, steps required to save the environment can be quite challenging given the current nature of our lifestyles and the modernisation which has taken place. However, some small yet fruitful steps can surely be the guiding force towards our need to save the environment for our own benefit.

For instance, we can put an end to contamination and toxicants in air, water, soil and structures or at least try to minimise it. Moreover, conservation of biodiversity and insurance of jeopardized species should be looked into. Additionally, protection and reasonable utilization of assets, for example, water, air and crude materials should be encouraged to preserve natural resources. Also, stopping human-initiated global warming process which as on today imposes a huge danger on the existence of life in different regions of the world should be enforced.

Moving from petroleum products to a sustainable power source in power, warming and cooling, and transportation, which tends to contaminate the environment, should be promoted. Cleaner fuels should be used as to minimise air pollution. Reasonable and less contaminating waste disposal and management including reduction of waste generated, reuse, reusing, fertilizing the soil, squander to-vitality, and anaerobic processing of sewage muck should be introduced in areas grappling with waste-related pollution of water.

Steps by Government to Save Environment:

A number of initiatives have been taken by various governments in order to aware people on the need to save the environment.

Some of them have been very popular among citizens such as:

1. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:

The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is India’s greatest save environment drive ever. The battle covers upwards of 4041 towns and goes for cleaning boulevards, streets, and foundation. It was formally announced on October 2, 2014, at Rajghat, New Delhi by the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister even assigned nine conspicuous public from the nation to help and energize the activity.

2. The Cleaning of Rivers, Especially Ganga:

Three days in the wake of confirming as the fifteenth Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, expressed his goal of cleaning the Ganga River. It served a dual purpose, as it was eco-friendly on one side and the sacred for others on the side. The Prime Minister additionally set The Ganga Action Plan under the immediate supervision of Water Resources Minister Ms Uma Bharti. The Clean Ganga Plan includes five services working in close co-task to see the results in the dram project of the government.

We must give ourselves a chance to design our urban communities as per the available resources in the region. This is a must to ensure that overuse of resources does not take place. The less we dirty our environment, the more we avert a worldwide temperature alteration. We must check for measures to stop the rising level of water in the oceans due to global warming. Expanding number of associations are being shaped to keep the planet from untimely annihilation.

More corporates have joined the race to spare the planet. We can just start by purchasing reused items for our office, home or school. The more prominent the interest for reused items, the more these organizations will be urged to add reused material to their items. Finally, we must all understand that the movement to save the environment starts from me, myself and I. don’t wait for others to take the initiative. Begin today and the others will definitely follow.

The environment is simply the surroundings where all non-living and also living things are there and form a sort of relationship between one another. The components of the environment include soil, water, air, animals and human beings. All of the gifts provided through the natural environment are wonderful for the entire living organism most especially mankind.

All natural resources are very important to life so much that there would be no life without them. The rapid increase in the population of the world has led to the rise in the need for goods and materials by the very large population. The components of the environment and other natural resources are constantly and seriously being exploited and overexploited way above and beyond natural limits. The overexploitation and misuse of these natural resources is highly hazardous and dangerous to the health of humans and animals.

In the words of Margaret Thatcher, “No generation has a freehold on this earth. All we have is a life tenancy- with a full repairing lease.” There are a lot of reasons to save the environment; why wouldn’t anyone want to save his surrounding and the place that houses him.

Some points that describe the pollution of the environment largely because of the wastage and misuse of the natural resources around us and the effects of this continual wastage and misuse on both non-living and living things are discussed below:

1. Air Pollution:

The rapidly increasing rate of the use of diesel and petrol for the burning of fossil fuel majorly in industries, in order to generate energy is a devastating contribution to the pollution of the air. This causes an increase in the amount and levels of hydrocarbons, sulphur oxides, carbon monoxide, chloro-fluoro-carbons, etc. All of these are very harmful and hazardous gases that affect the human health negatively and can cause lung cancer, chronic bronchitis and a lot of other countless respiratory diseases. The ozone layer is also depleting at an alarming rate and this makes us very vulnerable and prone to the dangerous harm of ultraviolet rays. Air pollution harms the environment in numerous ways like global warming and also weakens and lowers the immune system.

2. Water Pollution:

The release of animal and human wastes that aren’t treated in fresh water, suspension of inorganic chemicals in water is leading to industrial wastes, and the draining of pesticides and fertilisers into rivers during irrigation can lead to the pollution of water bodies.

The pollution of water makes the water totally unfit for domestic use especially drinking and cooking (cancer and gastro-intestinal diseases are some of the few effects of the consumption of such water). The pollution of water also affects aquatic life in a very bad way such as the fishes in polluted waters are not fit for human consumption, the death of aquatic life and even the forced migration of aquatic organisms and animals to waters that aren’t polluted.

3. Soil Pollution:

Pesticides and fertilisers used on plants in soil do not just kill pests and provide nutrients to the soil but they also kill organisms and microorganisms that help improve the nutrients in the soil and thus produce crops that are less nutritious. Crops that have been exposed to chemicals through soil pollution over the years lead to cancer and various forms of mutation when consumed. Soil erosion has also become rampant as a result of construction and deforestation which has led to a higher flood frequency that costs a lot of human lives and properties.

4. Noise Pollution:

Vehicles and factories produce a lot of noise that can potentially cause permanent physical damage to man’s ear including permanent or temporary hearing loss. Noise pollution has a lot of negative effects on emotional, mental and psychological health and can cause irritability, anxiety and stress and all of these can lead to performance at work dropping.

There are some methods that can be employed to save the environment. Even way back in history, people have always been concerned about the environment and saving it.

Some of the methods we can employ in saving the environment are highlighted below:

i. The concept of 3Rs (recycle, reduce and reuse) should be applied and promoted so that we can prevent the highly excessive use of resources that are non-renewable. For example, new metal products can be made from scrap metal.

ii. Bulbs and tube lights that are energy efficient should be used to save energy.

iii. The use of wood and paper products should be reduced and the use of e-paper and e-book should be encouraged.

iv. The use of fossil fuels can be reduced by using public transport, walking, cycling or car-pooling.

v. Instead of using plastic bags, jute/cloth bags can be used.

vi. Solar panels and rechargeable batteries can be used as alternative sources of energy.

vii. Compost bins can be set up to produce manure instead of using fertilisers.

Even though there are various established laws and schemes constituted by governments in order to save the environment, it is everyone’s duty and responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for present and future generations.

There is a popular saying by Lester Brown that reads “We have not inherited this earth from our forefathers-we have borrowed it from our children.” So, every individual on earth must contribute his quota towards the conservation of the environment, not just waiting on the government to do everything.

Unknowingly or knowingly, we contribute to pollution every day. Therefore, it is important that we do both our individual best and collective best to get involved in activities that help save the planet like recycling of products, engaging in rainwater harvesting, avoidance of wastage of natural resources like fresh water and also resources like electricity. It doesn’t matter how small or large our contributions is? what really matters is that we are doing our best to save the environment. We can only save our environment through proper management and sustainable development.

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13 ways to save the Earth from pollution

You might use plastic water bottles, yogurt cups, and straws for just a day, but they can remain in the environment for years. And that pollution can harm habitats and the animals that live there. Cut down Earth’s trash with these tips. 

Bust the balloons

Balloons eventually fall back down to Earth … and can end up in the ocean, entangling animals or being mistaken for food. Skip the balloons at your next party, and ask friends to do the same. Make pom-pom decorations instead!

Bin for the win

Always throw trash in the can. Garbage left outside might harm wildlife and end up in the ocean. Trash that’s properly brought to a landfill is kept out of the sea.

Fish responsibly

If you go fishing, don’t leave nets or lines in the water. Animals can become entangled in the trash.

Scientists estimate that about half the world’s sea turtles accidentally eat plastic and other trash. Keep the ocean clean by never leaving toys or trash at the beach.

Dump plastic

According to one study, over eight million tons of plastic pollution end up in the ocean each year. Drink from a refillable water bottle, place your sandwich in cloth or a reusable container, and use bar soap instead of bottled.

Garbage club

Form a club in your classroom to reduce your waste at school . Monitor what’s thrown away each week, and think about ways to cut down on those items.

Trash trooper

Participate in a community cleanup . The groups that host the events sometimes weigh the collected trash, which helps leaders make decisions about laws that encourage people to waste less.

Recycle right

People in the United States recycle only about 35 percent of their waste, so recycle what you can. Ask for help to create a paper and plastic recycling program in your classroom.

Business talk

Does your favorite ice-cream shop use plastic spoons? Ask an adult to help you talk to the owner about switching to a non-plastic option. Some kinds of spoons are even edible!

Do-good goodie bag

Don’t fill your birthday goodie bags with plastic yo-yos and other trinkets for your friends. Instead, give them homemade treats or coupons to a local bakery.

Straw sense

Experts estimate that Americans use about 500 million plastic straws a day, and they’re one of the top 10 trash items found during ocean cleanups. If you must use a straw, find a reusable metal straw or a paper version or make your own.

Pest Friends

Ask your parents to buy food and clothes that are made without pesticides—chemicals sprayed on crops to kill bad bugs. The problem? Pesticides also can kill critters like bees that are eco-friendly.

Stuffed with stuff

Items shipped to your home often come wrapped in plastic packaging; toys bought at the store are covered in it. Think about what can be bought secondhand, what can be shared, and what doesn’t need to be purchased at all.

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Learn about plastic and how to reduce your use., save the earth, save the earth tips, endangered species act.

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Our Science

A Long Term Strategy for People and the Planet

The Earth is at a tipping point. Here are 3 actions global leaders must take now.

Last updated January 10, 2024

Our planet faces the interconnected crises of rapid climate change and biodiversity loss. We have years, not decades, to address these existential threats.

Global Insights Newsletter

We explore the top sustainability issues and their solutions—in a 5-minute read or less.

In 2023, a new word was born to describe interacting current and future risks with potentially catastrophic consequences: polycrisis.

Another word is about to enter our collective dictionaries: permacrisis. Will this be our fate, or will 2024 be a time for resolution, resilience and recovery? This is a pivotal moment for global leaders attending the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, where they will develop a long-term strategy to prepare for and respond to these risks.

What we do between now and 2030 will determine whether we slow warming to 1.5° Celsius while also conserving enough land and water to fix biodiversity loss. The good news is there is much that global leaders can do now to keep the polycrisis from becoming a permacrisis.

3 Things We Must Do To Save The Planet

Solutions to climate change and biodiversity loss won't come from any one sector: they'll come from governments, finance, business and civil society. We can achieve a nature-positive world by 2050 while providing affordable, secure and inclusive access to energy, food and water.

Here are three ways we need to up-end “business as usual” and act boldly to advance conservation.

1. Produce more food on less land.

Today’s version of large-scale agriculture is the biggest source of land conversion, drives deforestation that worsens climate change, uses 70% of the world’s freshwater supply and relies on fertilizer practices that pollute our waters. As the need to feed a billion more people increases, agricultural expansion could devastate habitats, release even more carbon into the atmosphere, and dry up rivers.

Transitioning to Regenerative Food Systems

Our global food system can help us achieve our climate and biodiversity goals.

How to fix it:

Produce food where it’s most likely to thrive, which will use less water and less land.

How we’re taking action right now:

We’re analyzing satellite images and local yield potential to pinpoint where soy farming and cattle ranching can expand without destroying nature. This approach is especially vital in Brazil’s Cerrado region, where half of all natural habitat has already been converted to cropland and pasture. Cooperating with farmers on sustainable practices can help save what’s left of the Cerrado’s rich savanna.

2. Increase clean energy.

Climate change is the single most serious threat facing our planet today. We must reduce carbon emissions to, or below, levels agreed to in the Paris Climate Agreement to prevent catastrophic harm. And with global energy demand expected to increase 56% over the next couple decades, it will be impossible to meet those emissions targets if we stick primarily with traditional fossil fuels.

Benefits of Solar Energy on Former Mine Sites

An affordable path to repurposing former mines into clean energy hubs.

Shift 85% of the world’s energy supply to non-fossil fuel sources and invest in strategies like reforestation that capture carbon dioxide.

We’re championing regulations that allow former mining lands to be repurposed for solar and wind energy. Tens of thousands of acres of degraded mine sites in Nevada’s Great Basin are now available for renewable energy development. By targeting already-disturbed land, new turbines and solar panels won’t need to destroy more natural habitat.

There is much that global leaders can do right now to build a better future for people and the planet. Our newsletter explores potential solutions to our top challenges, all in a five-minute read or less.

3. Get $700 billion to finance nature.

Our economies depend on healthy, supportive natural systems. In fact, around half of the gross world product is dependent on nature. Globally, we're already spending up to $143 billion USD each year on activities that benefit nature, but we need more. A lot more. We need to spend at least $722 billion (and as much as $967 billion) USD every year, putting the nature finance gap at $579-824 billion USD.

A Finance Plan for the Planet

Here's how we get $700 billion each year to reverse the biodiversity crisis.

We need to close the funding gap—and spend at least $700 billion USD on nature every year—to reverse the decline in biodiversity by 2030. Fortunately, this number is only 1% of annual gross global product, or about what the world spends on soft drinks.

Through our Nature Bonds program, we’re taking a holistic approach to leverage debt refinancing for effective, durable conservation and climate action. We work with governments to help them refinance debt and generate new funding to invest in conservation, and in climate mitigation and adaptation measures. Like in Barbados, where we worked with the government, partners from the financial and conservation sectors, and local communities to develop a set of commitments for durable conservation that is tailored to meet the country’s specific needs.

We truly do have the power to build a future in which nature and people can thrive together.

A more sustainable path is possible. But we need to rally individuals, governments, companies and communities around the world to take action with us over the next decade. When we’re at the table with leaders around the world, it gives us great strength to show how many people are with us.

Solutions with Impact

Regenerative Food Systems

Together we can turn one of today’s biggest challenges into our greatest opportunity—a food system that goes beyond sustainable and creates positive growth for communities, economies and the planet.

Nature Bonds Program: Unlocking Funds for Conservation and Climate Action

TNC’s Nature Bonds Program combines debt refinancing, science, planning and policy to help countries protect ecosystems and support communities.

Renewable Energy Transition

We no longer need to choose between abundant energy and a cleaner environment. A renewable energy revolution is happening across the globe.

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How to Save the Environment: 17 Easy & Helpful Things You Can Do at Home

Last Updated: June 24, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by One Tree Planted and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau . One Tree Planted is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on a mission to make it simple for anyone to help the environment by planting trees. Their projects span the globe and are done in partnership with local communities and knowledgeable experts to benefit nature, people, and wildlife. Since 2014, One Tree Planted has planted over 40 million trees across the globe. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,881,806 times.

Saving the environment might seem like a tall order, but living an environmentally friendly life is actually quite easy. With just a few small lifestyle changes, you can protect the planet while creating a healthier life for yourself and future generations. A single household or individual can make a big difference: the more people become environmentally conscious, the healthier our planet will be. Read on for a comprehensive list of tips on how you can save the environment at home.

Things You Should Know

• Follow the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle! Upcycle things you don’t need in fun creative projects, shop secondhand, and compost scraps too.
• Eat locally-grown foods, cut back on meat and dairy, and shop at farmer’s markets. Make an effort to conserve water and electricity around the house.
• Walk or bike rather than drive a car when possible. Volunteer your time to clean up the community and advocate for environmental awareness.

Plant a tree in your yard.

• You can also plant other plants in your yard that are native to your area in order to support local ecosystems and wildlife.
• If you don’t have a yard of your own, you could always support organizations that aim to plant more trees, like the Nature Conservancy’s Plant a Billion Trees campaign, or One Tree Planted .

Cut back on driving.

• Combine multiple errands into one trip to minimize the distance traveled and fuel consumed.
• If you need to use a car, choose fuel-efficient models or hybrid/electric vehicles. Regularly maintain your vehicle to ensure optimal fuel efficiency.
• Carpooling will also enable you to take a highway's High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane, usually saving time and money on gasoline.
• Many bus systems in major cities operate diesel-electric hybrid buses, reducing harmful emissions.

Volunteer to clean up your community.

• If you prefer to be part of a group, volunteer with friends, your class, a church group, or anyone else.

Recycle items properly.

• Check the rules and regulations in your area to ensure you recycle properly. For instance, some places may not accept glass, while others might require you to separate the different materials.
• It’s important to know what is and is not recyclable in your area because if you dispose of something improperly, the whole load will likely be rejected and end up in a landfill.

Upcycle items.

• You might turn glass jars into windchimes or create lanterns with them. You could turn an old metal dish rack into hanging wall storage or use old newspapers to line a garden path before covering it with pebbles.
• Upcycling can be as simple as refinishing or repainting a piece of furniture rather than replacing it outright!
• If you aren’t going to reuse something yourself, donate it. This ensures that nothing is wasted, and someone in need can use your old items.

Compost your food scraps and yard waste.

• Food scraps that can go in the compost pile include fruits and veggies, egg shells, coffee grounds, nut shells, and tea bags.
• You can compost plant matter like yard trimmings, grass clippings, leaves, houseplants, sawdust, and wood chips.
• Other biodegradable materials include shredded newspapers, cardboard, hair and fur, and even fireplace ashes.
• If you don’t plan to use your compost, check and see if garbage removal services in your area can pick up organic waste as well as trash and recycling.

Cut back on product consumption.

• Avoid purchasing products with excess packaging. Often, food companies spend just as much energy creating the packaging for food products as they do producing the actual food.
• When you do buy something, look for durable products that will last you a long time.
• Borrow or rent items you need only for brief or occasional use.

Shop at second-hand stores.

• This philosophy also applies to bigger purchases, like cars. Buying a secondhand car can help the environment and impacts your wallet less.
• If you have family members or friends looking to give away some clothing, consider doing a swap with them. You can refresh your wardrobe without buying anything at all.

Alena Le Blanc

Invest in well-made garments that are eco-friendly. Look for natural, sustainable fabrics like organic cotton or recycled synthetics. Look for durable denim with a high cotton content (around 98-99%). Prioritize quality over quantity to extend your closet's lifespan and reduce your environmental footprint.

Choose reusable items over single-use plastic.

• Next time you need batteries, consider investing in rechargeable ones. Most batteries can now be thrown out with the regular trash—thanks to reduced chemical use—but they still take up space in landfills.

Reduce the amount of paper you print and use.

• Try using a washable cloth or sponge for most of your cleanup if possible.

Buy locally-sourced foods.

• If you’re in the US, look for CSAs using the Department of Agriculture’s directory . Otherwise, do an online search for CSA produce boxes. Local foods are fresher, so they’re higher in nutrient value!
• Avoid waste by planning your meals ahead of time so you don’t cook more than you’ll eat. Store leftovers and use them for one of your meals over the next few days.
• Buy from local artisans, clothing makers, and retailers too. Avoid ordering things online to be shipped to you whenever possible. The more locally-sourced products you buy, the better.

Cut back on eating meat and dairy.

• You don’t have to go fully vegetarian or vegan, especially if you have dietary restrictions that would make it difficult. The most important thing is to cut back on meat and dairy as much as your dietary needs allow.
• Meat and dairy are also typically more expensive, so cutting back and eating vegetarian meals can help your wallet!
• Eat more seafood as well. Seafood (and seafood fishing) is much more sustainable than producing vast amounts of meat and dairy, and it’s a great source of protein in your diet.

Conserve water around the house.

• Consider investing in a high-efficiency washing machine in the future.
• Fix leaky faucets and pipes as soon as possible to avoid wasting water.
• Install efficient shower heads and low-flow faucets in your kitchen and bathrooms to reduce water consumption further.
• Use a pool cover if you have an outdoor swimming pool. This will prevent water from evaporating, so you don’t need to refill the pool as often.

Use fewer chemicals in your daily life.

• When you have hazardous materials to throw away—like fluorescent light bulbs, cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, automotive fluids, and paint—be sure you dispose of it properly .
• Harmful chemicals and materials should never end up in a landfill, sanitary sewer, or storm drain! Contact your local waste management office for proper disposal options.
• Avoid blowing up helium balloons, too. Fill them up with regular air instead.

Conserve electricity at home.

• When you buy new appliances, be sure to choose Energy Star-certified products.
• Air-dry your clothes on a clothesline rather than turning on a dryer.
• Cut back on your heating and air conditioning use by ensuring your home is properly insulated and sealing air leaks around doors and windows.
• If nothing else, you can always throw on a sweater when it’s cold or turn on a fan when it’s hot, rather than using energy-consuming air conditioning or heating.

Donate to environmental causes.

• For example, you could host a Facebook fundraiser on your birthday and ask people to donate to an organization you support.
• Check out organizations working to save the environment like the Rainforest Alliance , Earthjustice , the Ocean Conservancy , or the World Wildlife Fund .

Encourage others to help save the environment.

• Visit https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials to find local representatives in the United States.
• If a friend or family member asks for tips, be sure to educate them about what they can do to save the environment and encourage them to get involved, too!

Community Q&A

Reader Videos

• Stay up-to-date on environmental issues, using reliable sources of information. This way, you'll be able to share helpful information if someone asks for tips on how they can save the environment. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• If you have old clothes, donate them to a secondhand store or take them to a shelter so someone else can wear them.
• Before you start a new school year, look through last year's materials. Many supplies can be reused or recycled.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-priorities/build-healthy-cities/cities-stories/benefits-of-trees-forests/
• ↑ https://www.onegreenplanet.org/environment/awesome-hands-on-ways-you-can-volunteer-to-help-the-environment/
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/recycle/frequent-questions-recycling
• ↑ https://upcyclemystuff.com/what-is-upcycling/
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home
• ↑ https://habitatbroward.org/blog/benefits-of-buying-things-second-hand/
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics
• ↑ https://sustainability.uic.edu/green-campus/recycling/paper-waste-reduction/
• ↑ http://www.gogreen.org/blog/the-environmental-benefits-of-buying-locally
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/watersense/start-saving
• ↑ https://www.epa.gov/greenchemistry/benefits-green-chemistry
• ↑ https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk//guidance/safety-around-the-home/energy-saving-tips/
• ↑ https://www.nrdc.org/stories/how-call-congress

About This Article

You can help save the environment by turning off things that use electricity when you're not using them and unplugging devices when they're not in use. You can conserve water by taking shorter showers, turning off the faucet when you're brushing your teeth, and doing laundry less frequently. Also, try walking or riding your bike instead of driving, which will help reduce carbon emissions. Buying your food locally also helps lower carbon emissions since the food doesn't have to be shipped from far away! If you want to learn more, like how to recycle or reuse materials, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What You Can Do

Everyone has a role to play in meeting the challenges of the world's most pressing environmental problems, including climate change, land degradation, and loss of biodiversity. Even our everyday choices and purchases—things we might not give a second thought to—affect the environment and biodiversity. For example, the production and transport involved in a cup of coffee impacts myriad species, from invertebrates to birds to fish. At the CBC, we like to use a  systems thinking   lens to engage with this complexity — by zooming out and broadening your perspective, you'll quickly notice the interconnectedness of many of these pressing issues facing our planet. 

While there are many steps you can take as a  consumer  to live more sustainably, your engagement as a  citizen  is equally as important. Contact your  local officials and government representatives  about issues that are important to you. If possible, volunteer your time with local environmental groups.

It’s not necessary to turn your life upside down to make a difference. If we all commit to just one or two lifestyle choices that are more sustainable, over time this will have a cumulative and positive impact on the Earth. The time to act is now. Not next year... this week! 

Simple tips and resources to live a more sustainable lifestyle:

The  Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change  (IPCC) conducts regular scientific assessments on climate change, its implications, and potential future risks, as well as adaptation and mitigation options. The Museum's permanent exhibition in the Hall of Planet Earth on  Causes of Climate and Climate Change  is another excellent resource on how climate works and the consequences of climate change. 

The  Yale Program on Climate Change Communication  conducts research and provides resources on how to conduct climate change communication more effectively.

Green power is supplied in whole or in part from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, geothermal, and hydropower, all of which come with fewer negative environmental impacts. For more information visit the  Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)  and ask your power company about purchasing green power!

Moving your thermostat down just two degrees in winter and up just two degrees in summer adds up to real energy savings over time. If possible, install a programmable thermostat and turn it down at night and when the home is empty.

Trees and shrubs are not only beautiful, they can also provide shade and help you save energy. Native species are often best, requiring minimal maintenance and enhancing wildlife habitats.  Native Plant Finder  can help you find the best choices for your area.

When it comes time to replace household appliances, choose items with the Energy Star label — they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the  Environmental Protection Agency  and the  US Department of Energy . 

Since about 90% of the energy used for washing clothes is for heating the water, you can drastically cut energy by using cooler water. ENERGY STAR washers use 50% less energy than standard washers, and about half the water! Also consider lines outside or racks indoors for drying.

Chargers for your cell phone, tablet, digital camera, and computer can all use significant amounts of power even when they’re not charging the devices. Use power strips to switch off televisions, home theater equipment, and stereos when you’re not using them, as these products waste energy even when you think they are turned “off.” Consider investing in a solar-powered charger for your electronic digital devices.

LED (Light Emitting Diode) light bulbs are extremely energy efficient—90% less energy than traditional bulbs! Look for LED bulbs with the Energy Star certification (tested and accredited for quality and efficiency standards). 

We are all part of larger food systems, and our choices on our plates and at the ballot shape this system—from farm to fork. 

If possible, visit farmers' markets and stock up on food in-season or join a community-supported agriculture group. Supporting local agriculture helps conserve farmland, bolsters the economy, provides fresh food to people, and reduces the pollution and energy use related to transporting food over great distances.

Increased use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, irrigation, and fossil fuels have caused pollution of our waterways and degradation of habitat. Studies have shown that agricultural chemicals can be replaced by alternatives that are friendlier to biodiversity and better for our health.

Choosing organically grown food supports the demand for such food and will help lessen the impacts of synthetic chemicals on the environment.

Livestock production is one of the major causes of the world's most pressing environmental problems, including climate change, land degradation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Reducing our meat consumption and making wise choices can encourage more sustainable livestock management.

Check out  Local Harvest  or the  Eat Well Guide  to find nearby sources of sustainable meat, poultry, and dairy (US and Canada).

All seafood is not the same! Many fish and shellfish species have been severely  overharvested , and some fish farming practices are polluting or unsustainable. To make informed choices, consult one of these sustainable seafood guides:  Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch ,  Oceana's Sustainable Seafood Guide .

Biologists report finding many fewer bird species in newer, sunny coffee fields than in the traditional shaded farms they replaced. Coffee grown in the shade also requires few or no chemical inputs—the leaf litter replenishes the soil nutrients and birds discourage pests.

Water 

Fresh water is a precious, limited resource . Conserving water not only helps to preserve this essential natural resource, but also helps save money and reduce the energy used to purify, heat, and distribute water. There are many, easy ways to conserve our water resources into the future.

Plastic water bottles  are one of the most common single-use plastic items. However, these plastic bottles have a dark side: energy consumption, waste disposal, health and safety concerns, contribution to global climate change, and other environmental impacts. Switching to a reusable bottle and refilling it at the tap is an easy, and cost-saving, solution to reduce your environmental footprint.

There are a myriad of ways you can conserve water in your own home. These include: taking shorter showers, turning off the faucet while you brush your teeth or shave, and only run the washer with a full load. In addition, a few simple changes in your home make a big difference. By switching to low flow shower heads and low flow toilets, you can cut down on some of the biggest household uses of water. What's your water footprint ?

Getting Around

In the United States, transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gases. A  single passenger vehicle  emits on average 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. Ride-sharing offers an opportunity to reduce carbon emissions and save money.

Consider purchasing a vehicle that uses less fuel or that functions electrically, and regularly maintain the operation of your vehicle. Checking various components and engine levels helps the vehicle to function efficiently and to use less fuel overall.

Take the bus—or even better—bike or walk when you can! During its lifetime, on the road, each car produces another 1.3 billion cubic yards of polluted air and scatters an additional 40 pounds of worn tire particles, brake debris and worn road surface into the atmosphere. Bicycling and walking significantly reduces transportation emissions while also reducing traffic congestion and the need for petroleum—it is also good for your health!

Try to avoid air travel when possible (can you take the train where you're going?). If you need to fly, choose airlines with more efficient aircrafts with higher occupancy capacity. Most airlines offer carbon offset programs to reduce your carbon footprint associated with air travel. 

One of the best ways to make an impact is to use your consumer power as an informed shopper. Eco-labels can help you determine which products are environmentally sustainable.  Here  are some reliable and respected labels to look for.

Greening   your household products  can help you to get rid of toxic chemicals from your home and reduce the harmful effects to the environment that bleach and other conventional household products cause.

Even in the age of  COVID-19 , studies show that for most uses, antibacterial soaps aren't any better than ordinary soap at preventing common illnesses. There is also growing concern among scientists that the chemicals commonly used in antibacterial soaps — triclosan and triclocarban — pose serious health and environmental concerns, especially because they persist in the environment and can contaminate our lakes, rivers, and water sources.

Waste Reduction

Opt for repairing rather than replacing or repurpose an old item. Borrow or share things you don't need day-to-day with friends and family, or join  Nextdoor.com  to connect with people in your neighborhood. Give away what you no longer need, websites such as  DonateNYC  can help you donate. Recycle stuff that can't be used anymore. Not sure what is recyclable? Check out this  recycling guide .

Plastic bags are everywhere—they get caught in trees and they clog our waterways. Paper bags come with a significant environmental impact as well, made out of tree pulp and utilizing energy to produce. Best is to bring a cloth bag instead of plastic or paper...or choose no bag!

Start your day by breaking free of the disposable habit. Using a refillable mug reduces waste and energy consumption—even recycled paper cups need energy and resources for their production. Many coffee shops and employee cafeterias offer discounts for those that refill their mugs.

Much of the food and other organic materials that we throw away can be turned into compost, which you can use on houseplants or on plants outside. Check out resources such as the  Composting Guide for Beginners  to learn more. 

There are many ways to cut back paper usage, including opting for online billing for your utilities, switching to digital subscriptions of newspapers and magazines, and if you have to print—set your printer default to double-sided.   

Investing in rechargeable batteries cuts costs and reduces waste—including lead and other metals utilized in their production. If you have single-use batteries, remember to  dispose of them safely  once they are depleted. However, if a rechargeable battery is used only a few times and then discarded, its environmental impact is worse than a disposable battery.. so choose wisely!

Landscaping with native plants requires minimal maintenance and enhances wildlife habitat. Use a  Native Plant Finder  or contact your local botanical garden, arboretum, or native plant nursery for information about what grows best in your area and the habitat requirements of different plant species. 

Controlling non-native predators such as domestic cats is an important part of maintaining or creating native habitat. Free-roaming domestic cats are responsible for killing more than  2 billion birds  each year in the US. Many groups stress that keeping your cat inside makes for a healthier and happier feline as well.

Life on Earth has evolved over millennia in response to predictable day-night cycles. Artificial night lighting interferes with these adaptations and can affect animal navigation, reproduction, and courtship, as well as plant germination and flowering. Conserve energy and protect plants and animals from the disorienting (and often harmful) effects of light pollution.

They are not proven effective against pests and end up killing beneficial insects. The most important thing you can do to prevent mosquitos in your yard is to find and eliminate all sources of standing water.  

Paragraph on How to Protect Environment

Environment Protection is individual responsibility towards our nature. It is sad that slowly the environment around us is degrading due to human interference. We have created some of the important paragraphs about the possible threats and solutions to environmental protection. Kindly read it as per your need.

Short and Long Paragraphs on How to Protect the Environment

Paragraph 1 – 100 words.

An environment is a place where all living things dwell. Sadly a large portion of the environment is degrading due to pollution and similar reasons. It’s our duty to maintain the quality of the environment.

Our natural environment is the source of where we get air, food, and water. In short, the environment provides us everything and it is the base of lives on earth. Saving environment is a practice that we can include in our regular live for maintaining the quality of life here. Due to the scarcity of natural resources, various environment activists appeal to save these resources. Individual efforts are the first initiative for saving the environment.

Paragraph 2 – 120 Words

There are many ways to save the environment. Here we are providing some of the ways for protecting our environment from damage:

Plantation: Tree plantation is the best step we should take for environmental protection. The world is facing deforestation, trees maintain our environmental balance.

Save Drinking Water: Drinking-Water is one of the scarce resources. We should use it wisely. Habits like turning off the tap after using can be beneficial for saving the water.

Wise Use of FUELS: Burning of fossil fuels is a major reason behind environmental pollution. Fuels are also one of the scarce resources, habits like using public transport than that of our private vehicle.

Use of Recyclable Products: For conserving the natural resources, we can include the use of recyclable products.

Paragraph 3 – 150 Words

Environmental protection is necessary for all of us. Here is some of the important contribution one should make, in order to save our environment:

Environmental Pollution is slowly degrading the quality of air, water, and soil. The environment is becoming toxic for living beings. Some steps like tree plantation, rainwater harvesting, using recyclable products, etc. can improve the quality of the environment around us. We can reduce the use of plastic, we can stop litter in surroundings, etc are some of the steps that can make our environment clean. Maintaining neat and clean surroundings is one of the important.

Protecting the environment is aimed towards the steps and initiatives towards the protection of the earth. Everyone should understand that saving the environment is not only a task for some group of people or authority. It should be promoted at the individual level. Due to human interference, our environment is suffering from serious issues. Everyone should think twice before wasting any scarce resources or before polluting the environment.

Paragraph 4 – 200 Words

The environment is made up of all-natural resources and living bodies. It includes flora and fauna, air, soil, mountains, water bodies, and all other things that make life possible on earth. Urbanization and population growth are deteriorating the environmental situation.

Why there is a Need to Save the Environment?

As a living being, we are totally dependent upon the environment for our basic necessities. Food, air, water and etc. are the base of living. For maintaining an ecological and environmental balance, it is important to save our environment. There are many ways to protect the environment. The main mantra of saving the environment is stopping the exploitation of the environment.

Industrialization is one of the main reasons of pollution. There should be proper norms for releasing industrial wastes. Industrial wastes pollute land, water, and the quality of air, it should be treated properly. Dumping of Plastics in marine water should be completely prohibited. Garbage pollution is the biggest problem for both land and water.

Proper treatment of Garbage is necessary. The household waste, drainage system, and industrial waste, etc. should be channelized properly. Rainwater harvesting is a way to channelize rainwater for household needs.

Paragraph 5 – 250 Words

Earth is the only planet where life dwells. Human presence has interfered with the natural balance of the earth. Here we have some shocking environmental facts :

• Each year approx 27,000 trees are cut down for the paper industry.
• Approx 50,000 species are on a stage of extent.
• Average tropical forests are losing 137 species per day.
• Glassware is also hard to decompose; it takes thousands of years to decompose single glassware.
• Plastic Pollution is dangerous for ocean life, as per a recent it is said that plastic pollution annually kills 1 million sea creatures.

Government, Businesses, individual efforts should be aware of environmental protection. The group and individual steps can take better decisions for saving the earth. Preservation, rejuvenation, and improvement of nature it’s our own responsibility. Environmentalists always advocate natural balance. It includes the preservation of wildlife and all the natural resources.

There are many problems like global warming, climate change, wildlife extension, smog, and many other changes that are the result of environmental degradation. Some habits like throwing household garbage in dustbins, reducing the unnecessary use of fuels, using public transports care the small contribution towards environmental change.

We can join campaigns and NGOs for environmental saving programmes. We can also run a social media campaign and sign the petition for saving the environment. Tree plantation should be encouraged; if you don’t have proper space for gardening then you can put indoor plants. Environment Protection is a topic that should be encouraged by all.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans. If we stop taking plastic bags and carry paper bags, we can decrease land pollution.

Ans. We can stop air pollution by not burning crackers and by using public transport.

Ans. We can protect the environment by taking care of species that are endangered.

Ans. Spix Macaw recently got extinct.

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Humans can work with nature to solve big environmental problems – but there’s no quick fix

Associate Professor, School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University

Research Fellow, School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, The University of Melbourne

Disclosure statement

Rachel Standish receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies.

Tina Parkhurst has received funding from the Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies.

University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU.

Murdoch University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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“Nature-based solutions” are gaining momentum in environmental policy, including in Australia. They involve working with nature to protect, restore or manage ecosystems in a way that benefits both people and the environment.

This might include restoring coastal mangroves to protect a community from coastal erosion, or replanting forests to store carbon, provide cleaner air, and create habitat for wildlife.

But such solutions must go the distance, if their full potential is to be realised. In particular, they must be able to withstand short-term disturbances such as fire or drought, as well as longer-term change such as global warming.

How do we ensure their resilience? Our review of nature-based solutions around the world set out to answer this question.

We found biological diversity – at the level of genes, species, communities and whole ecosystems – is key to creating nature-based solutions that last. In contrast, quick-fix solutions, such as planting a single species of tree, are less likely to work in the long run.

These findings are crucial for Australia, as the federal government establishes markets for nature repair and informing biodiversity policies.

Biodiversity is vital

Biological diversity refers to richness at every level – from the genetic diversity of individual plants, animals and fungi, to the range of species, and diversity within communities, ecosystems and landscapes.

Diverse ecosystems are more resilient. That’s because different species in an ecosystem vary in their responses to change.

For example , some plant species complete their life cycle before the drought season. Other plants tolerate drought by adjusting their metabolism. A third group avoid drought by shutting down, including shedding old leaves and closing their stomata.

This means even when some species are stressed or missing altogether, an ecosystem can keep ticking along.

The same is true for planted forests . Diverse planted forests are more resilient to fires, pests and diseases compared with low diversity projects. So they’re more likely to capture and store carbon, helping tackle climate change.

So if we want nature-based solutions to last, biodiversity must be at the core.

What we did

Our review involved analysing 78 research papers published internationally and in Australia over the past 20 years. We wanted to assess how ecological resilience was addressed in nature-based solutions.

A subset of papers described nature-based solutions in urban, agricultural and forested landscapes. Many focused on reducing impacts of climate change in cities. Then we considered key papers on ecological resilience and how to apply this knowledge to nature-based solutions.

So what did we find?

Most projects did not consider how resilience came about. This was true for resilience within species and populations, such as ensuring genetic diversity. It also applied at the landscape scale, such as providing connectivity between animal populations to prevent inbreeding.

The exception was afforestation projects – planting forests in degraded landscapes. In this domain, there is increasing recognition that species diversity is needed to create resilient ecosystems.

Researchers have, however, identified ways to make ecosystems more resilient – for example by restoring degraded land adjacent to remnant vegetation or controlling invasive predators that eat native wildlife.

The knowledge exists. The key now is to put these resilience ideas into practice.

Which interventions can help?

Our review confirms the best nature-based solutions mimic nature. So, interventions to conserve existing ecosystems are ideal. Once an ecosystem is destroyed, restoring diversity is difficult.

Controlling invasive species such as cane toads can also help by protecting pockets of native species from these threats.

Measures can also be carried out across entire landscapes. For example, the Gondwana Link project in southwestern Australia set out to revegetate abandoned farmland and reconnect patches of bushland for native wildlife.

Climate change is prompting land managers to rethink their “local is best” approach to sourcing seed and seedlings. Plants that are better adapted to heat and drought may be preferable. However, this approach requires further testing.

And returning plants with different drought strategies could help restore landscapes scorched by wildfire .

Looking ahead

Quick-fix, low-diversity solutions are not likely to recover after disturbances such as fire and drought. So while these projects are nature-based, the solution could be fleeting.

In Australia, the Nature Repair Market will incentivise nature-based solutions. First Nations people, conservation groups and other landholders will be rewarded for actions that deliver improved biodiversity outcomes. This includes returning vegetation along rivers and controlling invasive weeds and pests.

Our findings suggest nature repair and biodiversity markets should support actions that provide long-term benefits rather than quick wins. This could involve providing clear guidelines to landholders and ensuring their activities are accredited. It may also involve monitoring the outcomes of projects and rewarding success.

And these solutions take time to create. Governments should invest in research to develop projects that deliver long-lasting benefits. This includes understanding how to motivate people to drive successful outcomes.

Restoring biologically diverse landscapes may take time and effort. But for the sake of both people and the natural world, we must get it right.

• Climate change
• Biodiversity
• Environment
• Carbon sequestration
• Tree planting
• Climate crisis
• Forest restoration
• nature-based solutions
• Nature restoration
• nature repair
• Nature-based solutions to climate change

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Q&A: To Protect the Natural World, We Need to Put a Price on It

• Eben Harrell

NOAA’s chief scientist explains how new technologies can help businesses understand their impact, create new financial instruments, and enhance risk management.

Sarah Kapnick, chief scientist at NOAA, tells HBR how the agency is developing scientific standards and low-cost technologies to measure and value natural ecosystems. Kapnick highlights the critical role of accurate environmental measurement in aiding businesses to understand their impacts, create new financial instruments, and enhance risk management. She discusses NOAA’s efforts to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications, the importance of international cooperation, and the growing involvement of the private sector in environmental monitoring.

A major challenge facing the sustainability movement is how to account for corporations’ positive and negative externalities — that is, the impact companies have on the wider world that doesn’t show up in traditional financial accounting. For business leaders, understanding these impacts is crucial as stakeholders, including investors, consumers, and regulators, increasingly demand transparency and accountability regarding a company’s larger footprint. When it comes to environmental sustainability, particularly, the need to measure and value nature accurately is becoming integral to strategic decision making, risk management, and long-term planning.

• Eben Harrell is a senior editor at Harvard Business Review. EbenHarrell

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THE WIDER IMAGE

At tahiti's games site, polynesians fight for a reef and a way of life.

A coral is seen at a reef near Teahupo'o, Tahiti, French Polynesia, August 10, 2024. REUTERS/Carlos Barria

By Carlos Barria

Filed Aug. 14, 2024, 11:09 a.m. GMT

Photography by Carlos Barria Reporting and writing by Lincoln Feast

Filed: August 18, 2024, 09 a.m. GMT

On the remote south coast of Tahiti, its Jurassic peaks and azure lagoon accessible only by boat, Patrick Rochette is explaining how centuries-old Polynesian conservation traditions are being revived to protect this unique environment.

Mingled with gruesome tales of the island’s history of tribal wars and the roots of wave-riding, it’s a compelling account that resonates with the school children that the Tahitian elder has brought to this idyllic spot close to the Olympic surfing venue of Teahupo’o.

Among the interconnected Polynesian concepts lost or repressed during Tahiti’s French colonisation that Rochette describes: respect for tupuna, the ancestors; mana, the spiritual power of people and places; tapu, that which is sacred; rahui, a restriction or prohibition; and the guardians - the whales, sharks, turtles.

“It’s up to the children to go home with this information and explain it to their parents,” says Rochette, a burly 63-year-old.

For Rochette and others, countering the pressures of over-exploitation and climate change go hand-in-hand with a cultural renaissance in the Pacific island group, a distinct Polynesian identity that spans the world’s largest ocean.

“We Polynesians, in 15 or 20 years, if we don’t do anything, there’ll be nothing left,” Rochette said in a boat, speeding down the jungle-clad coast. “We have to do it together, not just here, but the Pacific community has to do all of this together.”

The Polynesian Triangle encompasses some 10 million square miles of the Pacific Ocean with Hawaii, New Zealand (Aotearoa) and Easter Island (Rapa Nui) at its corners. Its people, who trace their lineage back to a spiritual homeland, are closely connected by language, culture and their seafaring history.

As ideas of sustainability and conservation build momentum around the world, the adoption of traditional and culturally relevant approaches is becoming more popular among Indigenous communities.

In Polynesia, an intimate knowledge of the moana, the ocean, and the concept of guardianship is resonating as pressures on reefs and lagoons from both development and climate change grow.

Wave of Mana

Tereva David is also working with the local Teahupo’o community to embrace the Polynesian way of living in harmony with the environment.

One of the best to ride the Paris Olympic’s ferocious wave in front of his village, David has run camps for promising young French Polynesian surfers for the past decade.

David, 35, teaches them respect - not just for the wave, but for themselves, for each other and for their culture and environment.

“My mom, when she was a little girl, she was forbidden to speak Tahitian,” he said. “For a while there, it wasn’t looking good when you speak Tahitian - ‘Oh, you’re too rude, or you’re from the street, or from Teahupo’o, in the bush.’”

Now, Tahitian language and culture is a source of pride in Teahupo’o, where clear rivers run through the village to the black sand beach and the lagoon.

Olympic gold for 22-year-old local surfer Kauli Vaast also generated great mana, spiritual power or cultural pride.

“Only kings were able to surf here before,” David said. “For us, surfing is sacred, it’s the culture - like dancing, like canoe paddling, like singing, like making food for everybody.”

David said the community had worked to ensure having one of the world’s most powerful and alluring waves on their doorsteps now fully benefited the village. Locals now provide the surf camps, camera operators, taxi boats, and water safety patrols when top surfers come for big swells.

“It took us a long time but we finally did it. Now, nobody comes in and does it like the circus - we regulate,” says David.

“For us, it was the thing to do, to represent our mana, to represent our tupuna, our ancestors.”

The Olympics brought fresh challenges, with locals fighting to reduce the impact of new Games infrastructure, including insisting that a new tower on the reef to judge the surf contest be scaled back to reduce its environmental impact.

Restore the rahui

The reef - “the oxygen we breath,” says David - is at the heart of the surf and the village, a unique, living structure that not only creates the perfect waves, but is a larder, a playground and a workplace for almost everyone who lives there.

Ten years ago, however, the reef was struggling.

Plagued by over-fishing and hit more frequently by damaging storms, a decision was made by the community to re-introduce a rahui over a 768-hectare area south of the village, banning fishing and other activities.

“In the older culture, it was the king who decided these things and you couldn’t go against it, you would be killed,” and many people were afraid of the concept, said Rochette, who manages the Teahupo’o rahui.

The approach has been modernised and democratised, with the communities across French Polynesia now instigating rahui and deciding how to operate them to sustain their environment and resources.

South of Teahupo’o, buoys are set out to mark the rahui limits, and locals monitor the zone to ensure compliance. They say the impact has been mostly positive, with the reef thriving and fish stocks improving.

Scrambling over streams and paths of broken coral, Rochette tells the story of a sacred rock and its role in ancestral fishing rituals, recounts battles that turned the lagoon red with blood and details how surfing was introduced here by twin brothers.

While the cultural aspects have been significant, ascribing an economic value to the environment has also been important.

Cliff Kapono, a Hawaiian coral scientist, surfer and Polynesian activist, worked with locals to map and value the economic impact that works around the Olympics could have on the reef and lagoon using an established formula.

Kapono’s MEGA Lab estimated a direct economic impact of $170,000 for disturbing and destroying corals at the judging tower site and $1.3 million in total for the wider reef disruption around Teahupo’o from dredging and other works.

Beyond the economics, the idea of being guardians of the ocean was intrinsic to the Polynesian philosophy, Kapono said.

“There are people and communities across Polynesia that are defending their reefs. Whether they get hit by the Olympic people, or over-fishing, or nuclear testing, there are people that are going to stand up in these communities.”

“For us in Polynesia, that’s who we are, that’s our roots,” says Kapono. “This is now the war we fight. We fight for our environment.”

The Wider Image

Photography: Carlos Barria

Reporting and writing: Lincoln Feast

Photo editing and design: Maye-E Wong

Design: Marta Montana Gomez

Text editing: Michael Perry

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Fact-checking warnings from Democrats about Project 2025 and Donald Trump

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Project 2025 has a starring role in this week’s Democratic National Convention.

And it was front and center on Night 1.

WATCH: Hauling large copy of Project 2025, Michigan state Sen. McMorrow speaks at 2024 DNC

“This is Project 2025,” Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said as she laid a hardbound copy of the 900-page document on the lectern. “Over the next four nights, you are going to hear a lot about what is in this 900-page document. Why? Because this is the Republican blueprint for a second Trump term.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has warned Americans about “Trump’s Project 2025” agenda — even though former President Donald Trump doesn’t claim the conservative presidential transition document.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris said July 23 in Milwaukee. “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda will weaken the middle class. Like, we know we got to take this seriously, and can you believe they put that thing in writing?”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, has joined in on the talking point.

“Don’t believe (Trump) when he’s playing dumb about this Project 2025. He knows exactly what it’ll do,” Walz said Aug. 9 in Glendale, Arizona.

Trump’s campaign has worked to build distance from the project, which the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, led with contributions from dozens of conservative groups.

Much of the plan calls for extensive executive-branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues. It lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president.

Project 2025 offers a sweeping vision for a Republican-led executive branch, and some of its policies mirror Trump’s 2024 agenda, But Harris and her presidential campaign have at times gone too far in describing what the project calls for and how closely the plans overlap with Trump’s campaign.

PolitiFact researched Harris’ warnings about how the plan would affect reproductive rights, federal entitlement programs and education, just as we did for President Joe Biden’s Project 2025 rhetoric. Here’s what the project does and doesn’t call for, and how it squares with Trump’s positions.

Are Trump and Project 2025 connected?

To distance himself from Project 2025 amid the Democratic attacks, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he “knows nothing” about it and has “no idea” who is in charge of it. (CNN identified at least 140 former advisers from the Trump administration who have been involved.)

The Heritage Foundation sought contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations for its policy vision for the next Republican presidency, which was published in 2023.

Project 2025 is now winding down some of its policy operations, and director Paul Dans, a former Trump administration official, is stepping down, The Washington Post reported July 30. Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita denounced the document.

WATCH: A look at the Project 2025 plan to reshape government and Trump’s links to its authors

However, Project 2025 contributors include a number of high-ranking officials from Trump’s first administration, including former White House adviser Peter Navarro and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.

A recently released recording of Russell Vought, a Project 2025 author and the former director of Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, showed Vought saying Trump’s “very supportive of what we do.” He said Trump was only distancing himself because Democrats were making a bogeyman out of the document.

Project 2025 wouldn’t ban abortion outright, but would curtail access

The Harris campaign shared a graphic on X that claimed “Trump’s Project 2025 plan for workers” would “go after birth control and ban abortion nationwide.”

The plan doesn’t call to ban abortion nationwide, though its recommendations could curtail some contraceptives and limit abortion access.

What’s known about Trump’s abortion agenda neither lines up with Harris’ description nor Project 2025’s wish list.

Project 2025 says the Department of Health and Human Services Department should “return to being known as the Department of Life by explicitly rejecting the notion that abortion is health care.”

It recommends that the Food and Drug Administration reverse its 2000 approval of mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen for a medication abortion. Medication is the most common form of abortion in the U.S. — accounting for around 63 percent in 2023.

If mifepristone were to remain approved, Project 2025 recommends new rules, such as cutting its use from 10 weeks into pregnancy to seven. It would have to be provided to patients in person — part of the group’s efforts to limit access to the drug by mail. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a legal challenge to mifepristone’s FDA approval over procedural grounds.

WATCH: Trump’s plans for health care and reproductive rights if he returns to White House The manual also calls for the Justice Department to enforce the 1873 Comstock Act on mifepristone, which bans the mailing of “obscene” materials. Abortion access supporters fear that a strict interpretation of the law could go further to ban mailing the materials used in procedural abortions, such as surgical instruments and equipment.

The plan proposes withholding federal money from states that don’t report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention how many abortions take place within their borders. The plan also would prohibit abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. It also calls for the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that the training of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, omits abortion training.

The document says some forms of emergency contraception — particularly Ella, a pill that can be taken within five days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy — should be excluded from no-cost coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires most private health insurers to cover recommended preventive services, which involves a range of birth control methods, including emergency contraception.

Trump has recently said states should decide abortion regulations and that he wouldn’t block access to contraceptives. Trump said during his June 27 debate with Biden that he wouldn’t ban mifepristone after the Supreme Court “approved” it. But the court rejected the lawsuit based on standing, not the case’s merits. He has not weighed in on the Comstock Act or said whether he supports it being used to block abortion medication, or other kinds of abortions.

Project 2025 doesn’t call for cutting Social Security, but proposes some changes to Medicare

“When you read (Project 2025),” Harris told a crowd July 23 in Wisconsin, “you will see, Donald Trump intends to cut Social Security and Medicare.”

The Project 2025 document does not call for Social Security cuts. None of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.

Harris also misleads about Trump’s Social Security views.

In his earlier campaigns and before he was a politician, Trump said about a half-dozen times that he’s open to major overhauls of Social Security, including cuts and privatization. More recently, in a March 2024 CNBC interview, Trump said of entitlement programs such as Social Security, “There’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting.” However, he quickly walked that statement back, and his CNBC comment stands at odds with essentially everything else Trump has said during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump’s campaign website says that not “a single penny” should be cut from Social Security. We rated Harris’ claim that Trump intends to cut Social Security Mostly False.

Project 2025 does propose changes to Medicare, including making Medicare Advantage, the private insurance offering in Medicare, the “default” enrollment option. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks and can also require prior authorization, meaning that the plan can approve or deny certain services. Original Medicare plans don’t have prior authorization requirements.

The manual also calls for repealing health policies enacted under Biden, such as the Inflation Reduction Act. The law enabled Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for the first time in history, and recently resulted in an agreement with drug companies to lower the prices of 10 expensive prescriptions for Medicare enrollees.

Trump, however, has said repeatedly during the 2024 presidential campaign that he will not cut Medicare.

Project 2025 would eliminate the Education Department, which Trump supports

The Harris campaign said Project 2025 would “eliminate the U.S. Department of Education” — and that’s accurate. Project 2025 says federal education policy “should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.” The plan scales back the federal government’s role in education policy and devolves the functions that remain to other agencies.

Aside from eliminating the department, the project also proposes scrapping the Biden administration’s Title IX revision, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also would let states opt out of federal education programs and calls for passing a federal parents’ bill of rights similar to ones passed in some Republican-led state legislatures.

Republicans, including Trump, have pledged to close the department, which gained its status in 1979 within Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s presidential Cabinet.

In one of his Agenda 47 policy videos, Trump promised to close the department and “to send all education work and needs back to the states.” Eliminating the department would have to go through Congress.

What Project 2025, Trump would do on overtime pay

In the graphic, the Harris campaign says Project 2025 allows “employers to stop paying workers for overtime work.”

The plan doesn’t call for banning overtime wages. It recommends changes to some Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, regulations and to overtime rules. Some changes, if enacted, could result in some people losing overtime protections, experts told us.

The document proposes that the Labor Department maintain an overtime threshold “that does not punish businesses in lower-cost regions (e.g., the southeast United States).” This threshold is the amount of money executive, administrative or professional employees need to make for an employer to exempt them from overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

In 2019, the Trump’s administration finalized a rule that expanded overtime pay eligibility to most salaried workers earning less than about $35,568, which it said made about 1.3 million more workers eligible for overtime pay. The Trump-era threshold is high enough to cover most line workers in lower-cost regions, Project 2025 said.

The Biden administration raised that threshold to $43,888 beginning July 1, and that will rise to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. That would grant overtime eligibility to about 4 million workers, the Labor Department said.

It’s unclear how many workers Project 2025’s proposal to return to the Trump-era overtime threshold in some parts of the country would affect, but experts said some would presumably lose the right to overtime wages.

Other overtime proposals in Project 2025’s plan include allowing some workers to choose to accumulate paid time off instead of overtime pay, or to work more hours in one week and fewer in the next, rather than receive overtime.

Trump’s past with overtime pay is complicated. In 2016, the Obama administration said it would raise the overtime to salaried workers earning less than $47,476 a year, about double the exemption level set in 2004 of $23,660 a year.

But when a judge blocked the Obama rule, the Trump administration didn’t challenge the court ruling. Instead it set its own overtime threshold, which raised the amount, but by less than Obama.

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What is stress management?

• Identify the causes
• Replace unhealthy coping strategies
• Practice the 4 As

Avoid unnecessary stress

Alter the situation, adapt to the stressor.

• Accept the things you can't change

Move more during your day

• Time management
• Reach out and connect

Make time for fun and relaxation

Maintain balance with a healthy lifestyle.

• Reducing stress in the moment

Stress Management Techniques & Strategies to Deal with Stress

While it may seem like there’s nothing you can do about stress in your life, there are healthy steps you can take to destress and regain control.

It may seem like there’s nothing you can do about stress—no way to avoid it and no way to de-stress completely when it hits. The bills won’t stop coming, there will never be more hours in the day, and your work and family responsibilities will always be demanding. But the truth is, you have a lot more control over stress than you may think. In fact, the simple realization that you’re in control of your life is the foundation of stress management.

Managing stress is all about taking charge: of your thoughts, emotions, schedule, environment, and the way you deal with problems. The ultimate goal is a balanced life, with time for work, relationships, relaxation, and fun—plus the ability to hold up under pressure and meet challenges head on.

Stress management involves using various techniques and coping strategies to improve the way you react to stressful things in your life and build resilience . But it’s not one-size-fits-all. That’s why it’s important to experiment and find out what works best for you. Whether you’re looking to reduce your overall stress levels, avoid unnecessary stressors in your life, or deal with stress in the moment, the following stress management techniques and strategies can help.

Why does stress management matter?

If you’re living with high levels of stress, you’re putting your entire well-being at risk. Stress wreaks havoc on your emotional equilibrium, as well as your overall physical and mental health. It narrows your ability to think clearly, function effectively, and enjoy life.

Identify the causes of stress in your life

Stress management starts with identifying the sources of stress in your life. This isn’t as straightforward as it sounds. While it’s easy to identify major stressors such as changing jobs, moving, or going through a divorce, pinpointing the sources of chronic stress can be more complicated.

It’s all too easy to overlook how your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors contribute to your everyday stress levels. Sure, you may know that you’re constantly worried about work deadlines, but maybe it’s your procrastination, rather than the actual job demands, that is causing the stress.

To identify what’s really stressing you out, look closely at your habits, attitude, and excuses:

• Do you explain away stress as temporary (“I just have a million things going on right now”) even though you can’t remember the last time you took a breather?
• Do you define stress as an integral part of your work or home life (“Things are always crazy around here”) or as a part of your personality (“I have a lot of nervous energy, that’s all”)?
• Do you blame your stress on other people or outside events, or view it as entirely normal and unexceptional?

Until you accept responsibility for the role you play in creating or maintaining it, your stress level will remain outside your control.

Keep a stress journal

A stress journal can help you identify the regular stressors in your life and the way you deal with them. Each time you feel stressed, make a note of it in your journal or use a stress tracker on your phone. As you keep a daily log, you will begin to see patterns and common themes. Write down:

• What caused your stress (make a guess if you’re unsure).
• How you felt, both physically and emotionally.
• How you acted in response.
• What you did to make yourself feel better.

Replace unhealthy coping strategies with healthy ones

Think about the ways you currently manage and cope with stress in your life. Your stress journal can help you identify them. Are your coping strategies healthy or unhealthy? Many of us cope with stress in ways that make us feel better temporarily—but compound the problem in the long run.

Unhealthy ways of dealing with stress

• Using alcohol or drugs to relax .
• Bingeing on junk or comfort food.
• Zoning out for hours on your phone or TV.
• Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities.
• Sleeping too much.
• Filling up every minute of the day to avoid facing problems.
• Taking out your stress on others
• Procrastinating.

If your methods of coping with stress aren’t contributing to your greater emotional and physical health, it’s time to find healthier ones. No single method works for everyone or in every situation, so experiment with different stress management techniques and strategies. Focus on what makes you feel calm and in control.

Practice the 4 As of stress management

There are many healthy ways to reduce stress or cope with its effects, but they all require change. You can either change the situation or change your reaction. When deciding which option to choose, it’s helpful to think of the four As: avoid , alter , accept , or adapt .

Not all stress can be avoided, and it’s not healthy to avoid a situation that needs to be addressed. But you may be surprised by the number of stressors in your life that you can eliminate.

Learn how to say “no.” Know your limits and stick to them. Whether in your personal or professional life, taking on more than you can handle is a surefire recipe for stress.

Avoid people who stress you out. If someone consistently causes stress in your life, limit the amount of time you spend with that person, or end the relationship.

Take control of your environment. If the evening news makes you anxious, turn off the TV. If traffic makes you tense, take a longer but less-traveled route. If going to the market is an unpleasant chore, do your grocery shopping online.

Avoid hot-button topics . If you get upset over religion or politics, cross them off your conversation list. If you repeatedly argue about the same subject with the same people, stop bringing it up or excuse yourself when it’s the topic of discussion.

Pare down your to-do list. Analyze your schedule, responsibilities, and daily tasks. If you’ve got too much on your plate, distinguish between the “shoulds” and the “musts.” Drop tasks that aren’t truly necessary to the bottom of the list or eliminate them entirely.

If you can’t avoid a stressful situation, try to alter it. Often, this involves changing the way you communicate and operate in your daily life.

Express your feelings instead of bottling them up. If something or someone is bothering you, communicate your concerns in an open and respectful way. If you don’t voice your feelings, resentment will build and the stress will increase.

Be willing to compromise. When you ask someone to change their behavior, be willing to do the same. If you both are willing to bend at least a little, you’ll have a good chance of finding a happy middle ground.

Be more assertive.  Don’t take a backseat in your own life. Deal with problems head on, doing your best to anticipate and prevent them. If you’ve got an exam to study for and your chatty roommate just got home, say up front that you only have five minutes to talk.

Find balance. All work and no play is a recipe for burnout. Try to find a balance between work and family life, social activities and solitary pursuits, daily responsibilities and downtime.

If you can’t change the stressor, change yourself. You can adapt to stressful situations and regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude.

Reframe problems. Try to view stressful situations from a more positive perspective. Rather than fuming about a traffic jam, look at it as an opportunity to pause and regroup, listen to your favorite radio station, or enjoy some alone time.

Look at the big picture. Take perspective of the stressful situation. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run. Will it matter in a month? A year? Is it really worth getting upset over? If the answer is no, focus your time and energy elsewhere.

Adjust your standards. Perfectionism is a major source of avoidable stress. Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. Set reasonable standards for yourself and others, and learn to be okay with “good enough.”

Practice gratitude. When stress is getting you down, take a moment to reflect on all the things you appreciate in your life , including your own positive qualities and gifts. This simple strategy can help you keep things in perspective.

Accept the things you can’t change

Some sources of stress are unavoidable. You can’t prevent or change stressors such as the death of a loved one, a serious illness, or a national recession. In such cases, the best way to cope with stress is to accept things as they are. Acceptance may be difficult, but in the long run, it’s easier than railing against a situation you can’t change.

Don’t try to control the uncontrollable. Many things in life are beyond our control, particularly the behavior of other people. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things you can control such as the way you choose to react to problems.

Look for the upside. When facing major challenges, try to look at them as opportunities for personal growth. If your own poor choices contributed to a stressful situation, reflect on them and learn from your mistakes.

Learn to forgive. Accept the fact that we live in an imperfect world and that people make mistakes. Let go of anger and resentments. Free yourself from negative energy by forgiving and moving on.

Share your feelings. Expressing what you’re going through can be very cathartic, even if there’s nothing you can do to alter the stressful situation. Talk to a trusted friend or make an appointment with a therapist.

Speak to a Licensed Therapist

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When you’re stressed, the last thing you probably feel like doing is getting up and exercising. But physical activity is a huge stress reliever—and you don’t have to be an athlete or spend hours in a gym to experience the benefits. Exercise releases endorphins that make you feel good, and it can also serve as a valuable distraction from your daily worries.

While you’ll get the most benefit from regularly exercising for 30 minutes or more, it’s okay to build up your fitness level gradually. Even very small activities can add up over the course of a day. The first step is to get yourself up and moving. Here are some easy ways to incorporate exercise into your daily schedule:

• Put on some music and dance around.
• Take your dog for a walk .
• Walk or cycle to the grocery store.
• Use the stairs at home or work rather than an elevator.
• Park your car in the farthest spot in the lot and walk the rest of the way.
• Pair up with an exercise partner and encourage each other as you work out.
• Play ping-pong or an activity-based video game with your kids.

Using mindful rhythmic exercise to manage stress

While just about any form of physical activity can help burn away tension and stress, rhythmic activities are especially effective. Good choices include walking, running, swimming, dancing, cycling, tai chi, and aerobics. But whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you enjoy so you’re more likely to stick with it.

While you’re exercising, make a conscious effort to pay attention to your body and the physical (and sometimes emotional) sensations you experience as you’re moving. Focus on coordinating your breathing with your movements, for example, or notice how the air or sunlight feels on your skin. Adding this mindfulness element will help you break out of the cycle of negative thoughts that often accompanies overwhelming stress.

Learn to manage your time better

Poor time management can cause a lot of stress. When you’re stretched too thin and running behind, it’s hard to stay calm and focused. Plus, you’ll be tempted to avoid or cut back on all the healthy things you should be doing to keep stress in check, like socializing and getting enough sleep. The good news: there are things you can do to achieve a healthier work-life balance.

Don’t over-commit yourself. Avoid scheduling things back-to-back or trying to fit too much into one day. All too often, we underestimate how long things will take.

Prioritize tasks. Make a list of tasks you have to do, and tackle them in order of importance. Do the high-priority items first. If you have something particularly unpleasant or stressful to do, get it over with early. The rest of your day will be more pleasant as a result.

Break projects into small steps. If a large project seems overwhelming, make a step-by-step plan. Focus on one manageable step at a time, rather than taking on everything at once.

Delegate responsibility. You don’t have to do it all yourself, whether at home, school, or on the job. If other people can take care of the task, why not let them? Let go of the desire to control or oversee every little step. You’ll be letting go of unnecessary stress in the process.

Reach out and connect to people who make you feel good

There is nothing more calming than spending quality time with another human being who makes you feel safe and understood. In fact, face-to-face interaction triggers a cascade of hormones that counteracts the body’s defensive “fight-or-flight” response. It’s nature’s natural stress reliever (as an added bonus, it also helps stave off depression and anxiety). So make it a point to connect regularly—and in person—with family and friends.

[Read: Social Support for Stress Relief]

Keep in mind that the people you talk to don’t have to be able to fix your stress. They simply need to be good listeners. And try not to let worries about looking weak or being a burden keep you from opening up. The people who care about you will be flattered by your trust. It will only strengthen your bond.

Of course, you may not always have someone close by to lean on when you feel overwhelmed by stress, but by building and maintaining a network of close friends you can improve your resiliency to life’s stressors.

Tips for building relationships

• Reach out to a colleague at work.
• Help someone else by volunteering .
• Have lunch or coffee with a friend.
• Ask a loved one to check in with you regularly.
• Call or email an old friend.
• Go for a walk with a workout buddy.
• Schedule a weekly dinner date.
• Meet new people by taking a class or joining a club.
• Confide in a clergy member, teacher, or sports coach.
• Join a support group—either in-person or via on online therapy platform .

Beyond a take-charge approach and a positive attitude, you can reduce stress in your life by carving out “me” time. Don’t get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that you forget to take care of your own needs. Nurturing yourself is a necessity, not a luxury. If you regularly make time for fun and relaxation, you’ll be in a better place to handle life’s stressors.

Set aside leisure time. Include rest and relaxation in your daily schedule. Don’t allow other obligations to encroach. This is your time to take a break from all responsibilities and recharge your batteries.

Do something you enjoy every day. Make time for leisure activities that bring you joy, whether it be stargazing, playing the piano, or working on your bike.

Keep your sense of humor. This includes the ability to laugh at yourself. The act of laughing helps your body fight stress in a number of ways.

Take up a relaxation practice. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing activate the body’s relaxation response , a state of restfulness that is the opposite of the fight or flight or mobilization stress response. As you learn and practice these techniques, your stress levels will decrease and your mind and body will become calm and centered.

In addition to regular exercise, there are other healthy lifestyle choices that can increase your resistance to stress.

Eat a healthy diet . Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress, so be mindful of what you eat. Start your day right with breakfast, and keep your energy up and your mind clear with balanced, nutritious meals throughout the day.

Reduce caffeine and sugar. The temporary “highs” caffeine and sugar provide often end with a crash in mood and energy. By reducing the amount of coffee, soft drinks, chocolate, and sugar snacks in your diet , you’ll feel more relaxed and you’ll sleep better.

Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs may provide an easy escape from stress, but the relief is only temporary. Don’t avoid or mask the issue at hand; deal with problems head on and with a clear mind.

Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep fuels your mind, as well as your body. Feeling tired will increase your stress because it may cause you to think irrationally.

Tips for reducing stress in the moment

When you’re frazzled by your morning commute, stuck in a stressful meeting at work, or fried from another argument with your spouse, you need a way to manage your stress levels right now . That’s where quick stress relief comes in.

The fastest way to reduce stress is by taking a deep breath and using your senses—what you see, hear, taste, and touch—or through a soothing movement. By viewing a favorite photo, smelling a specific scent, listening to a favorite piece of music, tasting a piece of gum, or hugging a pet, for example, you can quickly relax and focus yourself.

[Read: Quick Stress Relief]

Of course, not everyone responds to each sensory experience in the same way. The key to quick stress relief is to experiment and discover the unique sensory experiences that work best for you.

More Information

• Special Health Report - Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School on Stress. (Harvard Health)
• Tolerating Distress - Workbook and information sheets to help you manage feelings of distress. (Centre for Clinical Interventions)
• How To Relax (Video) - Video to help you ease stress. (Mind)
• Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders. (2013). In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders . American Psychiatric Association. Link
• Can, Yekta Said, Heather Iles-Smith, Niaz Chalabianloo, Deniz Ekiz, Javier Fernández-Álvarez, Claudia Repetto, Giuseppe Riva, and Cem Ersoy. “How to Relax in Stressful Situations: A Smart Stress Reduction System.” Healthcare 8, no. 2 (April 16, 2020): 100. Link
• Norelli, Samantha K., Ashley Long, and Jeffrey M. Krepps. “Relaxation Techniques.” In StatPearls . Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2021. Link
• Toussaint, Loren, Quang Anh Nguyen, Claire Roettger, Kiara Dixon, Martin Offenbächer, Niko Kohls, Jameson Hirsch, and Fuschia Sirois. “Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Deep Breathing, and Guided Imagery in Promoting Psychological and Physiological States of Relaxation.” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2021 (July 3, 2021): e5924040. Link
• Unger, Cynthia A, David Busse, and Ilona S Yim. “The Effect of Guided Relaxation on Cortisol and Affect: Stress Reactivity as a Moderator.” Journal of Health Psychology 22, no. 1 (January 1, 2017): 29–38. Link
• Singh, Karuna. “Nutrient and Stress Management.” Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences 6, no. 4 (2016). Link
• Katsarou, Alexia L., Marios M. Vryonis, Athanassios D. Protogerou, Evangelos C. Alexopoulos, Apostolos Achimastos, Dimitrios Papadogiannis, George P. Chrousos, and Christina Darviri. “Stress Management and Dietary Counseling in Hypertensive Patients: A Pilot Study of Additional Effect.” Primary Health Care Research & Development 15, no. 1 (January 2014): 38–45. Link
• Errisuriz, Vanessa L., Keryn E. Pasch, and Cheryl L. Perry. “Perceived Stress and Dietary Choices: The Moderating Role of Stress Management.” Eating Behaviors 22 (August 1, 2016): 211–16. Link
• Choi, Dong-Woo, Sung-Youn Chun, Sang Ah Lee, Kyu-Tae Han, and Eun-Cheol Park. “Association between Sleep Duration and Perceived Stress: Salaried Worker in Circumstances of High Workload.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 15, no. 4 (April 2018): 796. Link
• Blaxton, Jessica M., Cindy S. Bergeman, Brenda R. Whitehead, Marcia E. Braun, and Jessic D. Payne. “Relationships Among Nightly Sleep Quality, Daily Stress, and Daily Affect.” The Journals of Gerontology: Series B 72, no. 3 (May 1, 2017): 363–72. Link
• Saleh, Dalia, Nathalie Camart, Fouad Sbeira, and Lucia Romo. “Can We Learn to Manage Stress? A Randomized Controlled Trial Carried out on University Students.” PLOS ONE 13, no. 9 (September 5, 2018): e0200997. Link
• Loprinzi, Paul D., and Emily Frith. “Protective and Therapeutic Effects of Exercise on Stress-Induced Memory Impairment.” The Journal of Physiological Sciences: JPS 69, no. 1 (January 2019): 1–12. Link
• Salmon, P. “Effects of Physical Exercise on Anxiety, Depression, and Sensitivity to Stress: A Unifying Theory.” Clinical Psychology Review 21, no. 1 (February 2001): 33–61. Link

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