Before you start Reading the text listen to the following information on “Changes in the Environment” ( click on the blue sentence)
What’s in our trash? Each year, we generate millions of tons of trash in the form of wrappings, bottles, boxes, cans, grass clippings, furniture, clothing, phone books, and much, much, more. Durable goods (tires, appliances, furniture) and nondurable goods (paper, certain disposable products, clothing) account for several million tons of the solid waste stream. Container and packaging waste is a significant component of the waste stream as well. This material includes glass, aluminum,
plastics, steel and other metals, and paper and paperboard. Yard trimmings such as grass clippings and tree limbs are also a substantial part of what we throw away. In addition, many relatively small components of the national solid waste stream add up to millions of tons.
What Can We Do? Since we all produce garbage, we are all part of the problem. But we can also be part of the solution. Of all the environmental issues we face today, garbage is one each of us can (and should) do something about. It's all about making wise choices. The choices we make every day affect the amount and types of garbage we toss. When we rethink the way we live, reduce what we buy, reuse things instead of getting new ones, recycle and compost; we not only make less waste, we also save valuable natural resources and energy, and create less pollution. Take responsibility for the waste you produce. Make a difference at home, school and when shopping. It's easy and every little bit helps! The Problem Is Too Much Trash!!!
Tips for Reducing Solid Waste
ďƒ˜ Reduce the amount of unnecessary packaging. ďƒ˜ Adopt practices that reduce waste toxicity.
Reusing products is just one way to cut down on what we throw away. Consider reusable products. Maintain and repair durable products. Reuse bags, containers, and other items. Borrow, rent, or share items used infrequently . Sell or donate goods instead of throwing them out
Choose recyclable products and containers and recycle them. Select products made from recycled materials.
Compost yard trimmings and some food scraps
Educate others on source reduction and recycling practices. Be creative - Find new ways to reduce waste quantity and toxicity. Look at the picture on the right. Does it suggest something to you? Try to design one and participate in the class competition. Draw types of recycle bins.
STORY TIME
Rachel Carson (1907 - 1964) Books can open closed minds. The books by Rachel Carson helped to open the minds of government regulators, executives in the chemical industry, and the general public about the environment and the dangers of insecticides and herbicides. Just as mighty forests spring from tiny seeds, Rachel’s powerful books sprang from her childhood fascination with nature
Rachel grew up loving nature and exploring its wonders. She thought that everybody should enjoy nature. Rachel wrote: "The pleasures, the values of contact with the natural world are not reserved for the scientist. They are available to anyone who will place himself under the influence of a lonely mountain top – or the sea – or the stillness of a forest; or who will stop to think about so small a thing as the mystery of a growing seed."
In this part of the unit you will work with “power point” or “movie maker”, it’s up to you! Your project will be based on Rachel Carson’s life, who has contributed to save the environment or at least has helped doing it. Good luck!!!