The Environmental Protection Hierarchy
The _______ has created a graphic called the environmental protection hierarchy. It shows _______ ways of protecting the environment. The higher up in the hierarchy, the better the approach (Figure 14.17).
The best strategy for protecting the environment is to reduce _______ . This eliminates the source, or cause, of _______ . For example, many people buy bottled water and then throw out the plastic container. Instead, they could buy a reusable bottle and refill it. This approach would reduce the amount of plastic thrown away. Very simple strategies, such as turning off the lights when leaving a room and turning off the water when _______ , reduce the amount of energy used.
Reducing the use of _______ is another way to help the environment. These energy sources are called _______ and were formed a very long time ago, when dinosaurs lived on Earth. Burning these fuels releases gases and particulate matter into the air. Many scientists also believe that they contribute to climate change. Driving electric or hybrid cars, for example, can reduce the amount of exhaust from fossil fuels.
Alternative sources of electric energy such as _______ , wind power, and water power help as well. These sources of energy come from resources that do not run out, such as _______ . These types of energy are called renewable energy (Figure 14.18). People can use as much energy as possible from these sources and never run out. Another advantage about this type of energy is that it does not cause pollution. That is why this type of energy is sometimes called _______ . The more people can use renewable energy sources, the more they protect the environment.
Another way of _______ is to take care of your belongings, such as clothes and electronics, so they last longer. Buy used clothes or books instead of new ones. Shop at thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets to save money and protect the environment at the same time. All of these strategies