1.
What is the role of environmental science in daily
life?
Introduction:
Environmental science plays a crucial role in
understanding and managing our natural surroundings. It
connects human life with the environment.
Key Roles:
Health Protection:
It helps us reduce exposure to pollutants, thus preventing
diseases like asthma or cancer.
Example: Awareness about air quality can prevent
respiratory problems.
Resource Management:
Teaches us how to use water, energy, and land efficiently.
Example: Rainwater harvesting saves water for
household use.
Sustainable Living:
Promotes eco-friendly habits like recycling and renewable
energy use.
Example: Using solar panels reduces dependency on
fossil fuels.
Quotation:
"The Earth does not belong to us; we belong to the Earth."
– Chief Seattle
Fact:
According to WHO, 24% of global deaths are due to
environmental factors. Environmental science helps
reduce this risk.
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2. How is environmental science an interdisciplinary
subject?
Definition:
Environmental science is called interdisciplinary because it
combines knowledge from multiple fields to solve
environmental problems.
Fields Involved:
Biology: Studies living organisms and ecosystems.
Chemistry: Explains pollution, chemical reactions in the
environment.
Geography: Helps understand landforms and natural
resources.
Sociology & Economics: Study human behaviors and
policies for environmental protection.
Example:
To solve water pollution, we need chemistry (to study
contaminants), biology (to study aquatic life), and law (to
implement water protection acts).
Fact:
The concept of interdisciplinary studies became prominent
in the 20th century due to increasing environmental crises
like oil spills and global warming.
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3. Define renewable and non-renewable resources
with one example each.
Renewable Resources:
These are resources that can be naturally replaced over
time.
Example: Solar energy – the sun provides energy daily.
Non-Renewable Resources:
These are resources that are limited and cannot be
replaced quickly.
Example: Coal – it takes millions of years to form.
Fact:
According to IEA, 80% of the world’s energy still comes
from non-renewable sources.
Reference:
International Energy Agency (IEA), Global Energy Review,
2023
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4. What is climate change?
Definition:
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures
and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities
such as burning fossil fuels.
Causes:
● Greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂, CH₄)
● Deforestation
● Industrialization
Example:
Melting glaciers in the Himalayas are a clear sign of
climate change.
Quotation:
"Climate change is the single biggest health threat facing
humanity." – WHO
Fact:
NASA reports that the Earth’s average temperature has
risen by 1.1°C since the late 19th century.
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5. What is meant by environmental degradation?
Definition:
Environmental degradation is the decline in the quality of
the environment due to harmful activities such as pollution,
deforestation, and industrial waste.
Forms of Degradation:
● Air pollution from factories and vehicles
● Water pollution from untreated sewage
● Land degradation due to over-farming
Example:
The shrinking of Lake Chad in Africa due to climate and
overuse of water.
Fact:
According to UNEP, nearly 40% of the world’s land is
degraded.
6. Define biodiversity.
Definition:
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms on Earth —
including plants, animals, microorganisms, and their
ecosystems.
Types of Biodiversity:
1. Genetic Diversity – Variation of genes within species
2. Species Diversity – Variety of different species
3. Ecosystem Diversity – Variety of habitats and
ecosystems
Example:
The Amazon Rainforest is home to about 10% of the
known species on Earth.
Importance:
● Maintains ecological balance
● Provides food, medicine, and raw materials
● Supports ecosystem services like pollination and
water purification
Quotation:
"Biodiversity is the greatest treasure we have... Its
diminishment is to be prevented at all cost." – Thomas
Eisner
Fact:
According to WWF (2022), global wildlife populations have
declined by 69% since 1970 due to habitat loss and
climate change.
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7. What is the greenhouse effect?
Definition:
The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain
gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet
warm enough to support life.
Main Greenhouse Gases:
● Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
● Methane (CH₄)
● Nitrous oxide (N₂O)
Natural vs. Enhanced Greenhouse Effect:
● Natural effect is necessary for life
● Human activities enhance the effect, causing global
warming
Example:
Burning fossil fuels increases CO₂, which traps more heat,
raising Earth's temperature.
Fact:
CO₂ levels have increased by over 50% since the
industrial revolution. (NASA, 2023)
Quotation:
"We are running the most dangerous experiment in history
by increasing the greenhouse effect." – Stephen Hawking
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8. Name any two causes of air pollution.
Definition:
Air pollution is the presence of harmful substances in the
air that can affect human health and the environment.
Two Main Causes:
1. Vehicle Emissions: Cars and buses release CO, NOx,
and other gases.
Example: Major cities like Delhi and Lahore suffer from
smog due to heavy traffic.
2. Industrial Smoke: Factories burn fossil fuels and
release pollutants.
Fact:
According to WHO (2022), air pollution causes 7 million
deaths annually worldwide.
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9. What is ozone layer depletion?
Definition:
Ozone layer depletion is the thinning of the ozone layer in
Earth’s stratosphere caused by man-made chemicals like
CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons).
Why Ozone Is Important: It protects life on Earth by
blocking harmful UV radiation.
Example:
The “Ozone Hole” over Antarctica is a major result of
ozone depletion.
Causes:
Use of aerosol sprays
Refrigerants and air conditioners
Fact:
Montreal Protocol (1987) is an international treaty that
helped reduce ozone-depleting substances.
Reference:
UNEP Ozone Secretariat, 2020
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10. What is meant by “carbon footprint”?
Definition:
Carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases,
especially carbon dioxide, that are emitted directly or
indirectly by a person, product, or activity.
Sources:
● Transportation (cars, planes)
● Electricity and heating
● Meat and dairy consumption
Example:
A person who flies frequently has a higher carbon footprint
than someone who uses public transport.
How to Reduce It:
● Use renewable energy
● Eat a plant-based diet
● Travel less by plane
Fact:
The average global carbon footprint per person is about
4.8 metric tons of CO₂ annually.
Quotation:
"What we do to the Earth, we do to ourselves." – Chief
Seattle
11. How does deforestation affect the environment?
Definition:
Deforestation is the large-scale cutting or clearing of
forests, often for agriculture, urbanization, or logging.
Negative Environmental Effects:
1. Loss of Biodiversity:
Many species lose their natural habitat.
Example: Orangutans in Indonesia are endangered due to
deforestation.
2. Soil Erosion:
Trees prevent soil erosion. Without them, topsoil washes
away easily.
3. Climate Change:
Trees absorb CO₂; cutting them increases greenhouse
gases.
Fact: Forests absorb up to 30% of global CO₂ emissions
(FAO, 2022).
4. Water Cycle Disruption:
Trees maintain humidity and rainfall. Their loss leads to
droughts.
Quotation:
"A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself. Forests are
the lungs of our land." – Franklin D. Roosevelt
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12. What are natural resources?
Definition:
Natural resources are materials or substances found in
nature that humans use for survival and development.
Types of Natural Resources:
1. Renewable Resources:
Replenished naturally
Example: Sunlight, wind, water
2. Non-Renewable Resources:
Finite and cannot be replaced quickly
Example: Coal, oil, natural gas
Uses:
● For energy (fossil fuels, solar)
● For food and agriculture (land, water)
● For manufacturing (metals, minerals)
Fact:
The Earth Overshoot Day (2024) was July 27, meaning
humans used more natural resources than the planet
could regenerate in a year.
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13. Write two ways to conserve energy at home.
1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances:
LED bulbs consume 80% less energy than traditional
bulbs.
Energy Star-rated appliances reduce electricity usage.
2. Turn Off Devices When Not in Use:
Unplug chargers and switch off fans and lights to save
energy.
Example:
A family switching to LED bulbs and solar water heaters
can reduce electricity bills by 30%.
Fact:
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, simple
changes at home can reduce energy costs by 20–30%
annually.
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14. Define water pollution and give one example.
Definition:
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies
(rivers, lakes, oceans, groundwater) with harmful
substances.
Causes:
● Industrial waste
● Sewage and garbage dumping
● Agricultural runoff (pesticides)
Example:
The Ravi River in Pakistan is heavily polluted due to
untreated industrial waste.
Effects:
● Destroys aquatic life
● Spreads diseases (cholera, hepatitis)
● Makes water unfit for drinking
Fact:
UNICEF reports that over 2 billion people globally lack
access to clean drinking water.
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15. What is meant by environmental awareness?
Definition:
Environmental awareness means understanding the
importance of protecting the environment and taking
actions to preserve it.
Why It Matters:
● Helps people make eco-friendly choices
● Encourages recycling, conservation, and sustainable
living
● Promotes environmental laws and policies
Example:
School campaigns on tree planting or Earth Day
celebrations raise awareness among youth.
Quotation:
"We won't have a society if we destroy the environment." –
Margaret Mead
Fact:
UN launched the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration
(2021–2030) to raise global environmental awareness.
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16. Name two sustainable practices.
Definition:
Sustainable practices are actions that meet present needs
without compromising the ability of future generations to
meet their own needs.
Two Examples of Sustainable Practices:
1. Afforestation and Reforestation:
Planting trees to restore ecosystems and absorb carbon
dioxide.
Example: Pakistan's "Billion Tree Tsunami" project is a
major sustainability effort.
2. Use of Renewable Energy:
Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power reduce reliance on
fossil fuels.
Example: Germany produces over 40% of its electricity
from renewable sources (IEA, 2023).
Quotation:
"Sustainability is no longer about doing less harm. It’s
about doing more good." – Jochen Zeitz
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17. What is meant by environmental ethics?
Definition:
Environmental ethics is a branch of philosophy that
studies the moral relationship between humans and the
environment.
Key Concepts:
● Humans have a moral responsibility to protect nature.
● All living beings have intrinsic value, not just
instrumental value.
● Future generations have the right to a clean
environment.
Example:
Avoiding plastic bags not only helps animals but reflects
an ethical choice for the planet.
Islamic Perspective:
The Quran says:
"And do not cause corruption upon the Earth after its
reformation." (Surah Al-A'raf, 7:56)
This shows the ethical duty to protect the environment.
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18. What are fossil fuels?
Definition:
Fossil fuels are natural fuels formed from the remains of
ancient plants and animals buried deep underground for
millions of years.
Types:
● Coal
● Oil (Petroleum)
● Natural Gas
Uses:
● Electricity generation
● Transportation (petrol, diesel)
● Industrial processes
Problems:
● Non-renewable and finite
● Release of greenhouse gases causing climate
change
Fact:
According to the IEA, fossil fuels still account for around
80% of the world’s energy consumption (2023).
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19. Name any two environmental NGOs.
1. WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature):
Works globally for wildlife conservation and reducing
human impact.
Active in over 100 countries including Pakistan.
Example: WWF Pakistan's Indus River Dolphin
conservation program.
2. Greenpeace:
International NGO that campaigns on issues like climate
change, deforestation, and ocean pollution.
Uses peaceful protest and scientific research to raise
awareness.
Fact:
These NGOs have influenced major environmental
treaties like the Paris Agreement (2015).
Quotation:
"The Earth is what we all have in common." – Wendell
Berry
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20. What is meant by ecosystem?
Definition:
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants,
animals, microbes) interacting with non-living components
(air, water, soil) in a specific environment.
Types of Ecosystems:
Terrestrial: Forests, deserts, grasslands
Aquatic: Lakes, rivers, oceans
Example:
A mangrove forest is a coastal ecosystem where fish,
birds, and plants interact with salty water and muddy soil.
Functions of an Ecosystem:
● Provides food and oxygen
● Maintains climate and water cycle
● Supports biodiversity
Fact:
UNESCO estimates that ecosystems provide over $125
trillion in services every year (2022).
1. What are the causes of environmental pollution?
Definition:
Environmental pollution refers to the introduction of
harmful substances into the environment, causing damage
to air, water, land, or living organisms.
Major Causes:
1. Industrial Emissions:
Factories release toxic gases and chemicals into air and
water.
Example: Textile industries in Faisalabad pollute the Ravi
River.
2. Vehicle Exhaust:
Cars and buses emit carbon monoxide and nitrogen
oxides that pollute air.
3. Improper Waste Disposal:
Throwing garbage in open areas or water bodies.
4. Agricultural Chemicals:
Pesticides and fertilizers seep into the soil and rivers.
Fact:
According to WHO (2023), pollution is responsible for 1 in
6 deaths globally.
Islamic Perspective:
"Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils." – Surah
Al-Isra, 17:27
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2. Define resource depletion.
Definition:
Resource depletion means the exhaustion of natural
resources due to overuse, mismanagement, or population
growth.
Types of Depleted Resources:
● Water
● Forests
● Fossil fuels
● Minerals
Causes:
● Overpopulation
● Deforestation
● Excessive mining
● Industrialization
Example:
Groundwater levels in cities like Lahore are falling rapidly
due to over-extraction.
Fact:
By 2050, 2 out of every 3 people may face water
shortages if overuse continues (UN Water Report, 2022).
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3. How does poverty affect the environment?
Explanation:
1. Overdependence on Natural Resources:
Poor communities rely heavily on firewood, hunting, and
fishing.
2. Lack of Awareness and Alternatives:
No access to clean fuels or waste management.
3. Urban Slums and Pollution:
Overcrowded areas often lack sanitation and clean water.
Example:
In many parts of rural Africa and South Asia, forests are
being cut for cooking fuel due to poverty.
Quotation:
"Poverty is the worst form of pollution." – Indira Gandhi
(Stockholm Conference, 1972)
Fact:
UNEP reports that climate change and poverty are closely
linked and mutually destructive.
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4. Write any two impacts of industrialization on the
environment.
1. Air and Water Pollution:
Factories release smoke and toxic wastewater.
Example: Sialkot tanning industry releases harmful
chemicals into nearby streams.
2. Habitat Destruction:
Forests cleared for industrial areas reduce biodiversity.
Other Impacts (Briefly):
● Soil contamination
● Climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions
● Noise pollution
Fact:
Industrial processes are responsible for over 20% of
global CO₂ emissions (IEA, 2023).
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5. What is urbanization?
Definition:
Urbanization is the process of population shifting from
rural areas to cities, often leading to rapid city growth.
Causes:
● Job opportunities
● Better education and healthcare
● Industrial growth
Effects on Environment:
● Overcrowding
● Air and water pollution
● Deforestation
● Increased carbon footprint
Example:
Karachi, with a population over 20 million, faces serious
urban environmental issues.
Fact:
By 2050, 68% of the world population will live in urban
areas (UN-Habitat, 2022).
