Green Bridge Learning Resource For Humans And Environment

Overview

Humans and the environment have a complex and interconnected relationship that significantly influences the ecosystem. One of the key aspects of this relationship is the impact of human activities on the environment. Human activities such as industrial processes, transportation, agriculture, and waste disposal contribute to pollution in various forms, including air, water, and soil pollution.

Pollution poses a serious threat to human health and the environment. It can lead to respiratory diseases, waterborne illnesses, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss. Understanding the types and sources of pollution is crucial in addressing these environmental challenges. By identifying pollutants and their effects, we can implement effective control measures to mitigate pollution's negative impacts.

Sanitation and personal hygiene play a vital role in disease prevention. Proper sanitation practices, including solid waste management and sewage disposal, are essential for maintaining public health and preventing the spread of communicable diseases. International and national health agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF), play pivotal roles in promoting public health and sanitation initiatives.

Conservation of natural resources is paramount for sustainable environmental management. By conserving both renewable and non-renewable resources, we can protect the environment for present and future generations. Organizations like the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are actively involved in conservation efforts to preserve biodiversity and natural habitats.

Furthermore, the establishment of game reserves and national parks in Nigeria enhances biodiversity conservation and promotes ecotourism. These protected areas provide habitats for diverse plant and animal species, contributing to the country's ecological balance and cultural heritage.

Understanding the intricate relationship between human activities and the environment, identifying pollution sources, promoting sanitation practices, conserving natural resources, and safeguarding protected areas are essential components in promoting environmental sustainability and public health.

Key Concepts Covered:

Impact of human activities on the environment
Types and sources of pollution
Effects of pollution on human health and the environment
Methods for pollution control and mitigation
Importance of sanitation and personal hygiene in disease prevention
Role of international and national health agencies
Principles of conservation of natural resources
Benefits of conserving natural resources
Significance and location of game reserves and national parks in Nigeria

Objectives

Discuss the benefits of conserving natural resources for future generations
Examine the principles of conservation of natural resources
Identify the various types and sources of pollution
Identify the key national and international organizations involved in conservation efforts
Explain the effects of pollution on human health and the environment
Analyze the methods used to control and mitigate pollution
Understand the significance and location of game reserves and national parks in Nigeria
Discuss the importance of sanitation and personal hygiene in disease prevention
Evaluate the role of international and national health agencies in public health
Understand the relationship between human activities and the environment

Lesson Note

Humans have a profound impact on the environment. Our activities affect the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the land we live on. Understanding the relationship between humans and the environment is essential for ensuring a sustainable future. In this article, we will explore various aspects of this relationship, including conservation, pollution, health, and sanitation.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Humans And Environment. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What diseases are commonly linked to poor sanitation and hygiene practices in a community? A. Malaria B. Cholera C. Tuberculosis D. All of the above Answer: D. All of the above
Which of the following is not a common method of controlling pollution? A. Recycling B. Incineration C. Afforestation D. Infectious disease spread Answer: D. Infectious disease spread
What is the role of vectors in spreading endemic diseases? A. Vectors help in the biological control of pathogens B. Vectors carry and transmit pathogens from one host to another C. Vectors reduce the virulence of pathogens D. Vectors do not play a role in disease transmission Answer: B. Vectors carry and transmit pathogens from one host to another
Which of the following is an example of a sexually transmitted disease? A. Malaria B. Typhoid fever C. Gonorrhea D. Tuberculosis Answer: C. Gonorrhea

Recommended Books

	Microbiology: Principles and Explorations Publisher Wiley Year 2012 ISBN 9781118120910
	Environmental Science Publisher Jones & Bartlett Learning Year 2017 ISBN 9781284057067

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Humans And Environment from previous years

WAEC SSCE - Biology - 2022 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

The burning of farmlands ahould be discouraged because?

destroys organic components of the soil

increases population of wild animals

increases dormancy period of some seeds

destroys some plant seeds

View Answer

JAMB UTME - Biology - 2023 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

Which of the following organs is primarily responsible for excretion in humans?

Liver

Pancreas

Kidneys

Lungs

Answer Details

The organ primarily responsible for excretion in humans is the **kidneys**. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in the lower back on either side of the spine. These remarkable organs perform the vital function of filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which are then eliminated from the body as urine. Here is a simplified explanation of how the kidneys carry out the excretion process: 1. **Filtration**: Every day, the kidneys filter around 200 liters of blood, separating waste materials such as urea, uric acid, and excess salts from the useful substances like water, glucose, and electrolytes. This filtration occurs in tiny structures within the kidneys called nephrons. 2. **Reabsorption**: After filtration, the kidneys reabsorb the useful substances, such as water and essential nutrients, back into the bloodstream. This allows the body to retain vital substances while eliminating waste. 3. **Secretion**: In addition to filtration and reabsorption, the kidneys also secrete certain waste products directly into the urine. These include substances like hydrogen ions and drugs. 4. **Concentration**: The kidneys also have the important task of maintaining the body's water balance. They regulate the concentration of urine based on the body's hydration needs. When we are dehydrated, the kidneys conserve water and produce concentrated urine. Conversely, when we are well-hydrated, the kidneys produce more dilute urine. The kidneys work closely with other organs involved in excretion, such as the liver and lungs, to maintain overall body balance. While the liver helps process and eliminate some waste products, and the lungs expel carbon dioxide, the kidneys are primarily responsible for the excretion of waste materials, particularly urea and other nitrogenous compounds. In conclusion, the **kidneys** play a crucial role in excretion by filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood, while maintaining the body's water balance.

View Answer

NECO SSCE - Biology - 2009 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

Which of these is NOT a pollutant?

Carbondioxide

Lead oxide

Nitrogen gas

Nitrogen oxide

Sulphur dioxide

View Answer