Environmental Health
Pollution, conservation, climate change
Our Environment and Health
Environmental health is about how the world around us affects our well-being. Clean air, safe water and proper sanitation are essential for good health. Pollution, poor waste management and climate change threaten environmental health in South Africa and globally.
Types of Pollution
• Air pollution: smoke from factories and vehicles, burning waste — causes breathing problems
• Water pollution: chemicals, sewage and litter in rivers — causes waterborne diseases
• Land pollution: illegal dumping, plastic waste — destroys habitats
• Noise pollution: loud machinery, traffic — causes hearing damage and stress
Example
What Can You Do?
• Reduce: use less plastic, save water and electricity
• Reuse: give old clothes to charity, use containers instead of cling wrap
• Recycle: sort waste into paper, plastic, glass and metal
• Plant trees and start a school garden
• Participate in community clean-up campaigns
• Report illegal dumping to your local municipality
Note
South African Context
South Africa faces challenges like water scarcity (especially in the Western Cape), air pollution in industrial areas like the Vaal Triangle, and illegal dumping in townships. Everyone — from government to learners — has a role in protecting the environment.
Key Vocabulary
PollutionHarmful substances released into the environment
ConservationProtecting and preserving the natural environment
RecycleConverting waste materials into new products
Climate changeLong-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
SanitationSystems for clean water supply and waste disposal
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Pollution
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