Dear next President,

      The environment is precious to life on earth, it provides oxygen and shelter for wildlife. "Humans impact the environment in several ways. Common effects include water quality, increased air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, depletion of natural resources, and contribution to global climate change. Some of these are the direct result of human activities, whereas others are secondary effects that are part of a series of actions and reactions."

      One of the biggest impacts humans have made on the environment is excess nutrients. Nutrients is essential to health and survival of plants and animals. However, humans introduce large amounts of nutrients into the ground, primarily fertilizer. Too much nutrients can reduce water quality by overgrowing harmful bacteria and algae that uses the nutrients necessary for the other species.

      The majority of air pollution is the results of humans. Examples of air pollution are increased fossil fuel combustion from vehicles, industrial factories, and power plants. All pollute our air by sending carbon monoxide, ozone and nitrous oxides into the atmosphere. Other types of air pollution, such as lead-based compounds, can lead to health risks like cancer or other kinds of reproductive effects and birth effects.

      Human activity is mainly responsible for the increase of temperature around the globe according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The increases of temperature is changing where crops can row and where certain fish and animals can live, all vital for feeding the human population. The rise in temperature is also causing glaciers to melt, resulting in high sea levels and threatening thr costal communities and economies.

      There are several activities people can do on a daily basis to slow down the destruction on the environment. For example, using pubic transportation, biking or walking instead of driving will reduce the carbon monoxide that is released into the air. Using less fertilizer on lawns and gardens will lower the likelihood of water pollution which is also beneficial for drinking water and human health. Reducing the amount of energy in our homes will lessen the amount of pollution in the air by coal burning power plants. Any type of activity that can reduce water and energy consumption can lead to a positive effect on our environment.

Respectfully,

Morgan P.