Topic Vocabulary:

biodiversity (noun [u]):

Definition: The number of plants and animals that live in an area, or in the world.

Example: Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest threatens the biodiversity of the region.

climate change (noun phrase):

Definition: When the Earth's weather patterns and temperatures start to change due to human activity.

Example: Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are evidence of climate change.

conservation (noun [u]):

Definition: The act of protecting and preserving natural resources, habitats, and species.

Example: The organisation works tirelessly to promote the conservation of endangered species and their habitats.

deforestation (noun [u]):

Definition: The clearing or removal of forests or trees on a large scale.

Example: Deforestation is a major cause of climate change.

drought (noun [u]):

Definition: When there's not enough rain for a long time, and it makes things very dry.

Example: The lack of rain caused a severe drought, leading to water shortages.

eco-friendly (adjective):

Definition: Environmentally friendly or sustainable, causing minimal harm to the environment.

Example: Using eco-friendly products helps reduce environmental impact.

ecosystem (noun [c]):

Definition: A community of living things (like plants, animals, and insects) that interact and depend on each other to live .

Example: The coral reef is a diverse and fragile ecosystem that supports a wide range of marine life.

emissions (noun [pl]):

Definition: Gases that are released into the air, usually from things like cars, factories, or power plants.

Example: The factory reduced its carbon emissions by implementing cleaner technology.

endangered (adjective):

Definition: When a species is close to disappearing from the planet.

Example: The number of endangered species is continually increasing as large areas of forest are cut down.

energy consumption (noun phrase):

Definition: The amount of energy that is used or consumed by people or machines.

Example: Energy-saving measures can significantly reduce household energy consumption.

exhaust fumes (noun phrase):

Definition: Emissions produced from burning fuel.

Example: The exhaust fumes from cars contribute to air pollution and can harm the environment.

extinction (noun [u]):

Definition: The complete disappearance of a species.

Example: The rapid decline in the population of elephants is pushing them towards extinction.

fossil fuel (noun):

Definition: Things like coal, oil, and gas that come from ancient plants and animals. We burn them to make energy.

Example: Coal, oil, and natural gas are examples of fossil fuels used for energy production.

habitat (noun [c]):

Definition: The natural environment where organisms live.

Example: The rainforest is the natural habitat for various species of monkeys and birds.

mitigate (verb):

Definition: To reduce the severity, intensity, or impact of a risk or problem.

Example: Planting trees helps mitigate the impact of carbon emissions on the environment.

natural resources (noun phrase):

Definition: Naturally occurring materials, such as minerals, or forests, that have economic or ecological value.

Example: Water and minerals are examples of valuable natural resources.

pollutant (noun [c]):

Definition: A harmful substance or contaminant in the environment.

Example: Carbon monoxide is a pollutant that can have detrimental effects on human health.

renewable (adjective):

Definition: Something that can be used but won't run out, like the sunshine, wind, or water.

Example: Solar power is a renewable energy source that harnesses energy from the sun.

smog (noun [u]):

Definition: A kind of pollution that happens when dirty air gets trapped near the ground.

Example: The city's air quality was poor due to smog, resulting from factory and vehicle emissions.

sustainable (adjective):

Definition: Able to be continued over the long term without causing environmental damage.

Example: The company implemented sustainable practices to minimise waste and conserve resources.