Environmental and Development Issues

Environmental Issues

Problems affecting the planet’s ecosystems caused by natural or human-induced activities.

Climate Change

Caused by greenhouse gas emissions, leading to global warming, rising sea levels, and extreme weather.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases like CO2 and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to climate change.

Paris Agreement

An international agreement aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally.

Deforestation

The clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, and urban expansion, leading to loss of biodiversity.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world, crucial for ecosystem stability and human survival.

Pollution

Contamination of the environment with harmful substances that affect air, water, and land.

Air Pollution

Introduction of harmful substances into the atmosphere from industries and vehicles.

Water Pollution

Contamination of water bodies through chemicals, waste, and plastics.

Land Pollution

Degradation of the Earth's surface due to waste dumping and harmful practices.

Plastic Pollution

Accumulation of plastic products in the environment, especially in oceans.

Noise Pollution

Excessive noise in the environment that affects wildlife and human health.

Biodiversity Loss

Decline in the variety of species due to habitat destruction and climate change.

Resource Depletion

Overuse of natural resources leading to scarcity and negative environmental impacts.

Sustainable Management

Practices that meet current needs without compromising future generations.

Poverty

A state where individuals lack sufficient income and resources to meet basic needs.

Inequality

Unequal access to resources and opportunities based on economic, social, or gender factors.

Sustainable Development

Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own.

Urbanization

The increasing population in urban areas, often leading to housing shortages and pollution.

Food Security

Access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for an active, healthy life.

Water Security

Sustainable access to adequate quantities of acceptable quality water for the population.

Renewable Energy

Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.

Kyoto Protocol

An international treaty that commits its parties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

A set of 17 global goals designed to achieve a better and more sustainable future.

Conservation Initiatives

Programs aimed at protecting biodiversity and restoring ecosystems.

Community Engagement

Involvement of local populations in initiatives to address environmental and development issues.

Grassroots Movements

Community-driven efforts aimed at creating social or political change.

Consumer Awareness

Understanding the environmental impact of the products one consumes.

Technological Advancements

Innovations that contribute to effective solutions for environmental challenges.

Ecological Footprint

A measure of human demand on Earth's ecosystems and natural resources.

Mitigation Efforts

Actions taken to reduce the severity of environmental issues, especially climate change.

Ecosystem Services

Benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, such as clean water and pollination.

Green Technology

Environmentally friendly technology that enhances sustainability.

Social Equity

Fair access to opportunities, resources, and rights for all individuals.

Indigenous Communities

Local groups of people with historical ties to specific territories and sustainable practices.

Desertification

Degradation of land in dry areas due to various factors, including climate change.

Marine Conservation Areas

Protected marine areas aiming to conserve marine biodiversity.

Habitat Restoration

Assisting the recovery of ecosystems that have been degraded.

Climate Resilience

The ability of a system to anticipate, prepare for, and recover from climate impacts.

Afforestation

The process of planting trees in areas where there was no previous tree cover.

Waste Management

Collection, transport, processing, recycling, or disposal of waste materials.

Biodiversity Conservation

Efforts to protect species, their habitats, and ecosystems from extinction.