We have spent thousands of years fighting for our survival. Yet now we have discovered that our planet is under threat and, to make matters worse, it’s all our fault. The rainforests are dying, rare plants and animals are disappearing, people are dying of hunger, rivers and seas are being polluted. It’s time we woke up to these problems and started repairing the damage.

One of the main problems is the destruction of the rainforests in South America. They are home to half the world’s species and to millions of people. Moreover, the rainforests clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and giving out oxygen. The trees are being cut down for paper or to make room for cattle farms. As a result, birds and animals lose their home and die. This destruction is also bringing about changes in the climate, air pollution, flooding, drought and famine. It we continue to burn and cut down the rainforests as we are doing now, the earth will never be the same again.

Another big problem is water pollution. Do you like swimming in the sea or drinking a cool glass of water on a hot day? These simple pleasures may soon become a thing of the past. Factories are polluting rivers and lakes with dangerous chemicals. Oil tankers are releasing thick, black oil into the oceans. Tons and tons of industrial and domestic waste are poured into the seas. Consequently, sea life is threatened with extinction.

Air pollution is another important issue. The cars and factories in and around cities are giving off dangerous fumes. In the past few years, more and more people than ever before have developed allergies and breathing problems. If we don’t do something now, our cities will become impossible to live in.

Fortunately, it is not too late to solve these problems. We have the time, the money and even the technology to prepare the way for a better, cleaner and safer future. We can plant trees and adopt animals. We can create parks for endangered species. We can put pressure on those in power to take action. Together we can save the planet. All we need to do is open our eyes and act immediately.

(Enterprise 3, Unit 18)