LIFE

ORIENTATION
16 August 2023
What is an environment?
The Environment is everything in the
world around us, including the air, soil,
trees, plants, animals and buildings.
Environmental Health
Environmental health has to do with all the various parts
of the environment that can affect human health.

The only way we can protect human beings from issues

that can affect them is to identify, control and prevent
anything that could cause harm to them.
South Africa’s Environmental Health
Problems

1. Air Pollution
2. Water Pollution
3. Littering
4. Soil Erosion
 Air Pollution
Air pollution is a mixture of solid particles and gases in the air.

This form of pollution damages the quality of air that we inhale and
can damage our trees, plants and animals and make us sick.

For Example: Car emissions, chemicals from factories, dust, pollen and
mold spores may be suspended as particles.
Ozone, a gas, is a major part of air pollution in cities.
 Water Pollution
Water pollution happens when harmful substances or microorganisms
contaminate a stream, river, lake, ocean or other bodies of water.

It degrades water quality and rendering it toxic to us or the

environment.
 Littering
Littering is throwing pieces of paper and rubbish on the ground in public
places.
 Soil Erosion
Soil erosion is the stripping or wearing away of the upper layer of soil – a
form of soil degradation.

Although this is a natural process, it is often accelerated by human

activities, for example by the clearing of vegetation or soil digging.
 Local Strategies
RECYCLING & REUSING
When you recycle, you process things so they can be used again. Like, plastic
bottles, glass, cans or paper.
While reusing, is to use something again in its original form for example plastic
bags and boxes.

Using recyclables rather than new raw materials to make products can;
1. reduce litter and pollution
2. save natural resources
3. save scarce landfill space
4. create extra income and jobs
 Individual Strategies

1. Protect plants and animals

2. Save electricity
3. Grow your own vegetables
4. Be water wise (save water)
5. Do not get rid of rubbish in public – utilize bins!