The environment is a vast and complex system surrounding humans — from the thing we breathe, to what we drink, to the land that supports life, and the ecosystem that sustains many species. As homo sapiens, we share an ecosystem with a multitude of other organisms in a delicate interdependence of life. With the enormity of the subject, it is not surprising that various people gravitated toward various elements of the environment. From the physical features of natural landscapes, to the more pressing issue of climate change, there are many ways to connect with and learn about the environment.
So what is it about the environment that interests you? Let’s break down some of the larger areas people can find attractive.
1. Climate Change and Global Warming
Climate change is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our era. Global warming — the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth’s surface caused by human activity, like burning fossil fuels and deforestation — is having far-reaching effects. The impacts of global warming are already being felt, from rising sea levels to more severe weather events to destabilized ecosystems. Studying causes and effects of climate change can provide insights about the way humans interact with natural systems, which may be of interest to those who care about the environment.
Why this is interesting: There’s nothing about life on Earth that’s not impacted by climate change, and its effects are often immediate and tangible. Its complexity stems in part from the interactions among the atmosphere, oceans, land and living things. Individuals interested in fighting climate change may also care about renewable energy solutions, sustainable agriculture, carbon reduction policies, etc.
2. Biodiversity and Conservation
Biodiversity is the term commonly used to denote the wealth of life on Earth from the smallest microorganisms to plants, animals, and ecosystems. Ecosystem health is based on the biodiversity within it. The extinction of one species or the depletion of whole ecosystems has ramifications across the environment. However, conservation efforts are crucial to safeguarding endangered species and maintaining ecosystems.
Why it’s interesting: Consider the complex interplay of animals and plant life — how every species contributes to the world around it, and how that world, in turn, shapes us. Conservation biology considers how we manage natural resources sustainably, how we restore damaged ecosystems, and how we prevent further loss of biodiversity. For animal lovers, there might be a niche in protecting endangered species, while people who appreciate plants may find importance in the preservation of rare plant species or of forests.
3. Water and Ocean Conservation
Water is the essence of all ecosystems. Whether it’s the freshwater that nourishes river, lake and groundwater supplies, or the broad oceans that make up more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, the health of our water systems is vital to life. Water scarcity, pollution and the state of marine ecosystems are becoming ever more urgent problems.
Why it’s interesting: Water conservation efforts — whether finding a way to reduce plastic pollution in oceans or figuring out how to efficiently use our limited freshwater resources — have real-life implications for human survival and the health of the planet. The oceans are especially fascinating due to their variety and the strange, largely uncharted beings who dwell within them. Deep-sea ecosystems boast scientific curiosity and nuanced environmental significance.
4. On the Biological and Ecological Basis of Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
Food production and consumption are major environmental issues. Agriculture leads to land degradation, deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions, and industrial farming practices can pollute water sources. Conversely, there are more sustainable-based methods, such as organic farming, agroforestry and permaculture, which can help combat food production’s environmental damage.
Why it’s interesting: Food systems touch on practically every environmental issue there is, from soil health to water use to climate change. Knowing how food is produced helps people make better decisions about what they eat and its impact on the planet. Sustainable farming practices hold promise for more resilient food systems; innovations in plant-based and lab-grown foods could change the way we feed a growing global population.
5. Disposal and Waste Management and Circular Economy
Waste is another major component of environmental sustainability. Traditional linear consumption patterns — where products are made, used and thrown away — are leading to overflowing landfills, plastic pollution and resource depletion. Instead, circular economy approach focuses on reinventing the designs and systems to create less waste materials, reuse and recycle the natural resources.
Why it’s interesting: Waste management intersects with urban planning, consumer behavior, manufacturing processes and more. The goal of circular economy principles is to reduce the environmental impact of human consumption and build systems where products are reused, recycled and made using sustainable materials. It’s a subject that gets more urgency with each passing year, with enterprises like this one promising an even cleaner future.
6. Principle III: Environmental Justice and Equity
Environmental issues go beyond nature, and intersect with social issues. Environmental justice seeks to correct the inequitable burdens placed on marginalized communities, among whom the worst impacts of environmental degradation are often borne. Environmental problems such as air quality, water quality and lack of green space are often worst in low-income and minority neighborhoods.
Why it’s interesting: The overlap of environmental and social justice makes this a fascinating area of study. By starting from a recognition of the importance of the rights of vulnerable communities and shaping policies to take steps toward providing equal access to clean air, water and the land, this branch of environmentalism aims for fairer, healthier societies.
Conclusion: What Does Environment Mean for You?
The environment is a super broad topic, and the more you poke around in it, the more you realize that everything is connected. You might be inspired by opportunities to preserve endangered species, address climate change, save water, or grow food sustainably, to name just a few ways to engage with the environment.
Deciding what part of the environment you are passionate about is a great first step to becoming an advocate for change. Whether you end up working in environmental science, doing activism, or just making more sustainable choices in your everyday life, every single person can have a ripple effect. Which aspect of the environment do you care most about, and how could you play a role in making change? Do read the documents and about the dates when they were (and weren’t) released.
