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Top 10 List how we choose |
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Acid Rain
Acid rain is caused
by pollution released from factories and other manufacturing processes as
well as many other pollutants. It can create acidification of lakes and
cause damage to plants and wildlife. It also increases the rate of decay of
buildings and other man-made items. Learn about the causes of acid rain, how to measure acid rain and what is currently being done to try to reduce the amount of acid rain in our environment. |
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Air Pollution
Learn about the
causes and effects of air pollution and a little about air pollution
throughout history. Learn about some of the solutions to reducing pollution in our air, such as energy conservation
techniques, using renewable sources of energy and improving overall energy
efficiency in many different products. You may also want to read about
improving indoor air quality. |
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Chemical Waste
When
manufacturers release chemicals into the environment instead of disposing of
them properly, it can cause any number of environmental health hazards.
Although the Environmental Protection Agency monitors companies, sometimes
mistakes happen or accidental spills occur. It is probably rare for
intentional waste to be spilled, but that happens as well. You can also read
about Environmental Hazardous Waste. |
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Contamination of Marine Habitats
Pollution of marine habitats can occur in any number of ways, including oil
spills, trash dumped into the oceans and other chemical spills. Although debris is a big hazard to creatures of the sea, chemicals and other
things dumped into waterways make their way to our oceans and cause even
more trouble. Many animals have been saved from these dangerous habitats,
but pollution continues to be a problem. |
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Deforestation
Although
deforestation at first glance may not seem to be a big issue, the
environmental impact can be huge. Many lumber companies have begun to
replant trees in recent years to help stop the spread of this problem.
However, the effects of deforestation can include soil erosion, changes in
the water cycle, floods, droughts and is suspected to play a part in climate changes. |
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Diseases
Many of the
growing problems with diseases is thought to be related to pollution and
environmental problems. Experts suspect that increased exposure to chemicals
may cause breast cancer, severe allergies and increase the risk of heart
disease and stroke. Studies such as those conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG)
show that changes must be made. |
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Extinction of Species
Many
of the other environmental problems listed seem to be contributing to mass
species extinction. In addition to species that have already gone extinct,
there are many species in danger such as Siberian Tigers and the Arakan Forest Turtle.
Learn more about how population growth is contributing to species extinction. Go to the news
portal for regularly updated reports on species in danger. |
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Global Climate Change
One of
the utmost environmental problems facing our planet today is global climate
change. Learn more about the basics of climate change, such as shifting weather patterns, melting
polar icecaps and greenhouse warming. Learn more about what can be done about climate change. You'll even find some lesson
plans and learning modules to help students learn more about this important topic. |
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Overpopulation
Human overpopulation
is causing many of the environmental problems we face today. More humans
means more energy consumed, more trash produced and more areas developed.
Learn more about the effects of overpopulation and what can be done to try to reverse the
damage. You'll also find out what species are being most impacted by results
of overpopulation. |
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Water
Quality
One impact of environmental
pollutants, wastes and chemical spills is an overall reduction in the
quality of water. Learn more about what water quality means and learn about ways to tell if your drinking water is safe. The USGS also offers
material for schools to help children learn about water quality and how it
can impact their lives and the community around them. |
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