Why Is the Environment So Important?
The environment is important because it supports the survival of human beings, is the source of natural resources, supports biodiversity and offers remarkable beauty. Moreover, the environment is responsible for air purification and disaster control.
Source of Natural Resources Apart from food, the environment provides several other natural resources necessary for the survival of human beings. The environment is the source of clean water, medicines, clothing, biofuels, wood and fossil fuels. These natural resources not only promote human survival on Earth, but they also enhance the living standards of people.
Furthermore, the environment supports most economic activities in the world. Economic activities, such as fishing, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism, depend largely on the environment for sustenance. For example, agriculture is dependent on adequate rainfall and fertile soils. In this regard, lack of care for the environment may affect employment, food security and production from such industries negatively.
Air Quality and Disaster Control The environment assists in the purification of air from the atmosphere. Plants release oxygen during the process of photosynthesis while using up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The removal of carbon dioxide and other toxic gases from the environment ensures maintenance of the quality of air. In addition, the regulation of carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere helps to reduce effects of global warming and climate change.
Moreover, undisturbed natural ecosystems can moderate severe weather phenomena and limit their damage. For example, coastal swamps slow water flow and hold water during severe sea storms. In addition, trees help to reduce wind speeds hence making them less destructive to settlement areas
Natural Beauty The environment provides natural beauty for the amusement and relaxation of human beings. Environmental features like waterfalls, rivers, lakes, oceans, wildlife and forests offer soothing relaxation to the human psyche. In this regard, natureÌ¢‰â‰ã¢s beauty is essential for human health. For example, beautiful landscapes and a relaxed, cool atmosphere offer a conducive environment for the treatment of mental illness and post-traumatic stress disorders.
Supports Biodiversity The environment provides resources which support plants and animals. Resources, such as water, air and nutrients, ensure the survival of biodiversity. In return, biodiversity affects the natural cycle of elements like carbon and nitrogen, soil fertility, water purification, pest and disease cycles. This mutual dependability is essential for the sustenance of the ecosystem.
Home to Human Beings All goods and services used by humanity come directly or indirectly from the Earth and its environment. The environment helps to sustain human life by providing food, breathable air and natural resources. In addition, human beings live and thrive within EarthÌ¢‰â‰ã¢s environment. As a result, EarthÌ¢‰â‰ã¢s environment is humanityÌ¢‰â‰ã¢s only home where people can freely live without restrictions.
Because of the important nature of the environment, it is prudent to protect the environment from environmental degradation, pollution or any other harmful effects. This can be done through water conservation, proper waste disposal and preservation of biodiversity. Through these and similar measures, protection of the environment prevents the depletion of natural resources thereby ensuring the stability of the ecosystem. It’s also ethical to preserve the environment for future generations.
