Инглиш / 6 Environmental issues

6 Environmental issues. 

1. Ecological problems caused by the development of civilization.

1.With the development of civilization man’s influent on nature has increased. Every year the world’s industry pollutes the atmosphere with millions of tons of harmful substances.Among the most problems are the ozone layer, acid rains, global warming, toxic pollution of atmosphere, disappearance of forests, threat to some flora and fauna representatives.Modern industry production is the main threat to nature.

2. The consequences of the Chernobyl disaster. 

For example, the nuclear accident at Chernobyl, which took place on April 26, 1986., has seriously aggravated the ecological situation including in Belarus. That catastrophe can be considered as the largest disaster of the 20th century. As the result of that accident 18% of territories of our republic were contaminated by radioactive elements. The agriculture of our country suffered great losses. More than 20% of the population has also suffered.

3. International efforts in solving environmental problems. 

The activity of many public organizations is directed to protect environment. One of the most known organizations is “Greenpeace”, whose purpose is prevention of environment degradation. This organization was founded in 1971 by the activists from the USA and Canada and it has representations in 25 countries of the world. “Greanpeace” acts against nuclear tests, radiating threat, pollution of the environment by waste industrial products, to protect the animal world, etc.

4. The idea of sustainable development. 

Living within our environmental limits is one of the central principles of sustainable development.But the focus of sustainable development is far broader than just the environment. It's also about ensuring a strong, healthy and just society. Sustainable development is about finding better ways of doing things, both for the future and the present. It provides an approach to making better decisions on the issues that affect all of our lives.

5. The Kyoto Protocol.

The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement concluded to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in atmosphere in order to counteract global warming.Most provisions of the Kyoto Protocol apply to developed countries. China, India, and other developing countries were not included in any numerical limitation of the Kyoto Protocol because they were not the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. However, even without the commitment to reduce according to the Kyoto target, developing countries do share the common responsibility that all countries have in reducing emissions.