OZONE LAYER: There are large
holes in the ozone layer, and
ultraviolet rays are causing eye
cataracts and cancers.
CLIMATE CHANGE & GLOBAL WARMING: The
earth’s temperature is increasing because of a
build up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
This will cause climate change, rising sea levels,
storms, hurricanes, floods and death.
DEFORESTATION: ½ of the world’s
rainforests have been chopped
down since 1945. Rainforests
cover 6% of world’s surface, but
contain 50% of all species and
plants, some of which provide vital
medicines. Natural habitats are
being destroyed.
POLLUTION & WASTE: Pollution and
waste are building up, including
acid rain, nuclear waste, toxic
waste and chemicals.
POPULATION PRESSURE: The population
explosion means greater pressure on the
world’s resources.
URBAN EXPLOSION: Cities are doubling in size every 12
years; this means loss of green land, and an increase in
urban problems such as drugs, crime and violence.
FOOD AND FRESH WATER SHORTAGES: 1 billion people
are chronically hungry, but the world’s population will
rise for another 50 years. More and more people will
want fewer resources, leading to more war and
violence.