Pollution

Concept of "Tragedy of the Commons"

Many organisations (multi-national or national) release harmful gases/substances into the air/water/land (for their own benefit)

Air, water and land (shared resources) are polluted

What is the problem?

Too much harmful gases is released into the air

Causes acid rain

Which corrodes ancient statues and relics

Animals are dying because of the pollution

Affects our food supply

Noise pollution disturbs the animals' communication and ability to maneuver/find food

e.g. echolocation (dolphins)

Water pollution kills plants and animals

What are Man's natural behaviours?

Using cars

Increases unwanted gas in atmosphere

Trap more heat on Earth

Global warming

Using air-conditioners everyday for long hours

Throwing litter in natural habitats

Eg. Sea

Causes sea animals to eat rubbish

Sea animals die

Cutting down trees

Ruining animal's habitat

Animals have nowhere to hide

Animals die

Radiation spills

Nuclear accidents

Industrial waste spills

Dumping chemicals into water bodies

Cause animals to suffocate

Construction work

What can be done by the government/companies to help safeguard our natural resources?

Encourage use of public transport

Protect Biodiversity

Implement species conservation and recovery programmes

Compile case studies on and assess best practices that have been implemented

Promote volunteerism through biodiversity interest groups

Incorporate elements of biodiversity conservation into the curricula of all levels of education

Reduce deforestation

Encourage saving of electricity/water/food/materials

What part can I play?

Subtopic

Use more public transport

Combine errands for fewer trips

Reuse water used to wash vegetables to flush toilet

Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when full

Remember to turn off lights, computers, and electric appliances when not in use

Use energy efficient light bulbs and appliances

recycle more

reuse paper

Have shorter showers