Q.Why should we protect the environment?

The environment gives us resources and essential life-support services. Over-use and pollution threaten health, farming, industry and the climate, so we must protect it to ensure human survival, economic stability and the needs of future generations — the core idea of sustainable development.

Why protection is necessary

1. Life-support function: Clean air, water and soil are essential for human health and survival.
2. Resource base for the economy: Agriculture, industry and energy all depend on natural resources; their depletion stops development.
3. Rising pollution: Industrial waste, vehicle emissions and chemicals cause air, water and soil pollution and disease.
4. Climate change and global warming: Excess carbon emissions raise temperatures, cause erratic monsoons and extreme weather, hurting farmers.
5. Loss of biodiversity: Deforestation and habitat loss destroy species that maintain ecological balance.
6. Welfare of future generations: Over-exploitation today leaves little for tomorrow, violating equity between generations.
7. Sustainable development: Development that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs requires a healthy environment. …