Section 5-2 Caring for the Environment 113
Some of the most serious world problems threaten the environment.
Limited natural resources, rapid population growth, and pollution are
a few of these. People must think about how they use the environment.
They must be willing to examine how they affect it. They should learn
what they can do to protect and preserve it.
A Healthful Environment
A healthful environment promotes
good physical and mental health and
enables people to reach their goals. It
has clean air, unpolluted water, rich
soil, a continuing supply of natural
resources, and pleasant surroundings,
5-3. The surroundings are spacious
enough to allow individuals some
privacy and room for recreation. A
healthful environment also supports
diverse plant and animal life.
Does such an environment exist
only in secluded or primitive areas? Can
it coexist with an advanced standard of
living? Many people believe that, with
care and effort, everyone can enjoy a
healthful environment.
5-3
The natural beauty of
the environment can
be preserved for future
generations through the
wise use of resources
today.
Section 5-2
Caring for the Environment
fossil fuels
pollution
hazardous waste
toxic waste
recycle
Objectives
After studying this section, you will be able to
•
explain the importance of a healthful environment.
•
identify the causes of different types of pollution.
•
relate how pollution affects people’s health.
•
discuss ways people can protect and build a healthful environment.
Key Terms
Practice key terms with
crossword puzzles,
matching activities, and
e-fl ash cards for Chapter 5
at the website.
ompanion
Website
www.g-wlearning.com