Environmental problems can be found in all areas of the world. Some affect the water, others affect the air, and still others affect the land and the animals. Many environmental problems can be reduced or eliminated through corrective actions or proactive measures. Several of the more severe and widespread environmental problems will be discussed below.

Water pollution is a prominent environmental problem witnessed across the globe. In some cases, water pollution occurs when pollutants drain into rivers, streams, lakes, and other bodies of water. Pollutants can be in the form of chemicals from fertilizers, pesticides, oil, gasoline, antifreeze, and even mulch or dirt. Sometimes rainwater washes the particles into the water bodies, as well. There are several preventative steps that can be taken to reduce water pollution:

• Avoid using excessive amounts of fertilizers and pesticides on lawns.
• Do not fertilize when it is going to rain.
• Do not dump dirt or mulch in the street – as it can easily wash down the drain into bodies of water.
• Pick up litter which can injure wildlife if it enters lakes, rivers and streams.
• Remove and properly dispose of pet waste. It contains dangerous bacteria and nutrients that can create public health concerns if it enters water bodies.
• Never dump chemicals or fluids from cars (i.e. oil, gasoline, antifreeze) down gutters, drains or sewers.

Air pollution is another environmental problem that is seen throughout the world. Air pollution can be created by factories or companies that release pollutants into the air. Oftentimes, the air pollutants may originate in one country and can easily blow across the border and pollute another country’s air.

Other times, air pollution is less caustic but equally harmful for those with respiratory conditions. For example, even building household fires for warmth or burning land to clear an area for farming can release particulate matter into the air. In some areas, there are wood burning restrictions during times of high air pollution.

Environmental problems can also include the well-being of threatened or endangered animals. For example, in the United States, logging of forest land was destroying the habitat of the Northern Spotted Owl, a threatened species. Consequently, after a lengthy lawsuit, logging was curtailed in those areas. In Central and South America, the rainforests are also destroyed to make room for farming. However, some unique and endangered species of plants and animals are also destroyed in the process.

Global warming is another environmental problem. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon, are emitted into the atmosphere and are destroying the ozone layer, causing the earth to reach higher temperatures. Taking steps, such as reducing carbon emissions, can lessen this problem – according to some scientists. Using electric or hydrogen powered vehicles, solar power and wind power can also work to greatly reduce carbon emissions, as well as reduce dependence on non-renewable resources and foreign oil.