It's Your World!

Everything that surrounds us is part of the environment. Not just living things like plants and animals, but also beaches and mountains, the air we breathe, the sunlight that provides warmth, and the water that we use in our homes, schools, and businesses.

For a long time people thought the Earth was so huge that it could easily absorb human wastes and pollution. And they thought that Earth's natural resources would never be used up.

In modern times, the world's population has been growing very fast. In 1850 there were around a billion people in the world. In 1950 there were around 2.5 billion, and in 2001, there were more than six billion. Their activities have put a strain on the environment.

Sharing the Earth

We share the planet with trees, flowers, insects, fish, whales, dogs, and many other plants and animals. Each species of animal or plant has its place on Earth, and each one is dependent on many others. Plants give off oxygen that animals need to breathe. Animals pollinate plants and spread their seeds. Animals eat plants and are in turn eaten by larger animals. When plants and animals die, they become part of the soil in which new plants, in their turn, take root and grow.

Watching Over the Earth

People are becoming more aware that human activities can seriously damage the planet and the animals and plants on it. Sometimes this damage can be reversed or slowed down. But it is often permanent. Below you'll learn about the damage, and about some things that can be done to help clean up and protect our planet. Make time to do your part... after all, It's Your World!

Recycling

To keep your world clean, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! But there is more to it! Click here to learn more!

Water Supply

It makes up 60% of your body. 70% of your world is covered with it. Sound important? It should! Click here to learn more!

Superfund Sites

Superfund sites are not super FUN. They are dangerous hazardous waste sites that require attention! Click here to learn more!

Conservation

You may think that you conserve electricity by turning off the light, but guess again! Everyone can conserve! Click here to learn more!

Global Warming

Global Warming might be hot, but it certainly isn't cool! Find out just what it is and how you can help! Click here to learn more!

Endangered Species

Today, nearly 1500 of your world's plant or animal species are endangered or threatened. Click here to learn more!