Caution: Fragile World

Caution: Fragile WorldHandle with Care.

Level 10th - Unit 4

1. What Makes Something Sustainable

Sustainability is the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level. Is the avoidance of the depletion of natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance. products. 

Sustainable products are those products that provide environmental, social and economic benefits while protecting public health and environment over their whole life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials until the final disposal. 

2. Products and Practices around the World. 

Sustainability isn’t just a trend these days, it’s a necessity. Thankfully, more and more community leaders and politicians are realizing that drastic moves are in order. The following are some examples of countries that have been dome some good sustainable practices around the world:

Iceland

With low levels of air pollution,  stunning green forests, excellent water quality, and effective environmental policies, Iceland is one of the most environmentally friendly countries on the planet. According to the PR Newswire, 72% of the country’s total energy consumption comes from hydro- and geothermal resources. Not only that, but Iceland is still reaping the benefits of the Nature Conservation Act (1999), which protects the land from construction, deforestation, or other damaging actions.

Switzerland 

Thanks to global warming, Switzerland’s glaciers are already melting, but the Swiss have taken action. The country’s efficient recycling programs, exhaust emissions standards, and landscape planning laws are a part of everyday life for their citizens. Add that to the list of things the Swiss are absolutely excelling at - besides fondue, chocolate, and the Red Cross.

France

In July 2016, the French banned the usage of plastic bags, and just last month, they expanded on their environmental policy. The French government passed a law that requires all plastic manufacturers to create goods solely from biodegradable materials before 2020. We’d say, let them eat cake...but only if it’s served on non plastic plates. 

3. Products and Practices in Costa Rica

Costa Ricans work hard to make sure their land is preserved for years to come. Their environmentally friendly efforts have saved thousands of plants and animals in danger of extinction. Citizens even a pay a gas tax that goes towards helping landowners restore forests. Earth Share reports that Costa Rica’s goal is to have forests cover 60% of the country, an aspiration we can get behind.

4. Grammar 101: Modal Verbs  

5. Practice

Students are asked to watch the following video, then they have to write 5 sentences about how they can be more environmentally  friendly to protect our fragile world. They must use modals (should, shouldn't, must, must not, have to, have not to) in their sentences.