Earth Science

Study of Earth's systems including geology, meteorology, and oceanography.

Introduction to Earth's SystemsGeology: The Study of Rocks and Earth's StructureMeteorology: Weather and ClimateOceanography: Exploring the Oceans
Plate Tectonics and Earth's Changing SurfaceThe Water Cycle and Ocean-Atmosphere InteractionsHuman Impact on Earth's SystemsExtreme Weather and Natural Disasters
Predicting Weather and Preparing for StormsProtecting Earth's ResourcesExploring Local Environments
Study with Visuals and ModelsConnect Science to Real Life
Introduction to Eart...Geology: The Study o...Meteorology: Weather...Oceanography: Explor...Plate Tectonics and ...The Water Cycle and ...Human Impact on Eart...Extreme Weather and ...Predicting Weather a...Protecting Earth's R...Exploring Local Envi...Study with Visuals a...Connect Science to R...
Advanced Topics

Human Impact on Earth's Systems

How People Change the Planet

Humans affect Earth's systems in many ways. Activities like deforestation, pollution, and burning fossil fuels change the land, air, and water.

Major Human Impacts

  • Climate Change: Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, warming the planet.
  • Pollution: Trash, chemicals, and plastics harm ecosystems.
  • Resource Use: Mining and farming change landscapes and water use.

Solutions and Actions

Scientists and communities work to reduce these impacts by recycling, conserving energy, and protecting nature.

Examples

  • Reducing air pollution by using cleaner energy sources.

  • Restoring forests to help absorb carbon dioxide.

In a Nutshell

Humans change Earth's systems, but we can take action to protect our planet.

Key Terms

Greenhouse Gas
A gas that traps heat in Earth's atmosphere.
Deforestation
Cutting down large areas of trees.
Sustainability
Using resources in ways that protect the environment for the future.
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Extreme Weather and Natural Disasters