Talking about the environment is to do so, if a definition is sought, of a set of natural and artificial elements that surround living beings and in which they are in a constant interaction. This definition includes the earth, water, air, flora, fauna, in addition to all Natural resources that support life on the planet.
In this sense, everything is part of the environment and everything is essential for the well -being and survival of all; Hence the Key to defend and protect it.
The importance of the environment
And to recod it, it does not point to its date on the calendar: Every June 5, Environment Day is celebrated worldwide with the idea in mind of sensitizing and raising awareness among society on the importance of guaranteeing lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources.
Figures are enough to “convince” those who are not yet very aware of this: every second more than a thousand tons of CO2 are poured into the atmosphere, the Atmospheric pollution is one of the main risks to public healthone million of the 8 million species of fauna and flora in the world is in danger of extinction or about 90% of the world’s marine fish populations are being exploited to their maximum capacity for regeneration … Some data that calls for a question that can be done much more to take care of the environment.
One of the main essences of the environment
One of the most important characteristics of the environment is its diversity that, in the case of planet Earth is based on the infinity of ecosystems that there are throughout the world with their own flora and fauna, in addition to a series of climatic conditions. To guarantee such biodiversity in each case is essential and very important to achieve the natural balance that allows regulating the climate, purifying air and water, in addition to guaranteeing vital resources such as food, medicines and even materials to build.
Another relevant characteristic is that the environment is an interconnected system. What happens in an ecosystem can affect others. For example, deforestation in a region can cause the loss of habitats, affect the water cycle and contribute to climate change. Therefore, taking care of a single aspect of the environment has a positive impact on the entire planet since every organism obtains from it the necessary support to guarantee its survival, not only food, but also, refuge, air or energy.
However, the present reality is that today Between 60 % and 70 % of the world’s ecosystems are degrading faster than they can recover. Inadequate management of the environment and natural resources results in considerable economic losses. Yes, there is also an economic and social value in the environment.
The economic and social value of the environment
Many human activities such as agriculture, fishing, tourism and industry depend in a very direct way on the natural resources that form that environment. Therefore, to take care of the latter is to ensure these resources for the coming generations and that they enjoy their immense benefits. Unfortunately, the reality is another and this comes in the form of contamination, deforestation, loss of biodiversity or climate change that have contributed to deteriorating the environment and, therefore, the environment.
However, it is essential that it became aware of the importance of caring for the environment with simple daily gestures (recycling, using renewable energies, reducing the consumption of plastics, protecting natural spaces, promoting sustainable practices ...) That it is good that they be done from childhood.
Most important environmental problems
There are several origins or causes that are behind the danger to the planet when talking about little or zero care to the environment: contamination of fresh water and seas, water pollution, the generation of greenhouse gases that increase global warming, the destruction of the ozone layerdeforestation, poor waste management, as well as the elimination of biodiversity as mentioned in previous lines.
The environment is home to all who live on the planet and the most valuable resource to protect.