Energy Matters
This renewable energy source uses panels to convert sunlight into electricity
solar power
The gradual increase in Earth's average temperature
global warming
To process and reuse materials instead of throwing them away
recycle
This general term refers to harmful substances released into air, water, or soil
pollution
Buses, trams, and trains are all examples of this eco-friendly way to travel
public transport
These traditional energy sources including oil and gas are non-renewable
fossil fuels
These gases, including CO2 and methane, trap heat in Earth's atmosphere
greenhouse gases
Food grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
organic food
A type of air pollution often seen as a brownish haze over cities
smog
A safe road or lane for bicycles, encouraging greener travel
cycle path // bike path
This type of power plant uses atomic reactions to generate electricity and is controversial in many countries
nuclear power plant // nuclear reactor
The measure of total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual or organization
carbon footprint
Materials that can naturally decompose without harming the environment
biodegradable
A large area where waste and garbage are buried
landfill
These gases from cars and factories are a major cause of air pollution
emissions
This renewable energy source harnesses heat from within the Earth's crust
geothermal energy
When a species population becomes so low that it risks extinction
endangered species
A system where multiple people use only one vehicle to reduce emissions
carpooling // carsharing
Wastewater that comes from households, factories, and cities
sewage
When there are too many vehicles on the road, leading to traffic jams and delays (also when you have a stuffy nose)
congestion
This term refers to the capacity to store power for later use, crucial for renewable energy systems
energy storage
The systematic destruction of forest areas, often for agricultural or urban development
deforestation
Turning food scraps and garden waste into natural fertilizer
compost
When the number of people in an area is too high for resources and the environment to handle
overpopulation
This alternative fuel for cars produces only water as exhaust when used in fuel cells
hydrogen