2015-06-30
1025
The scientific and technological progress of the twentieth century resulted in widespread mechanization, automated lines computerized management, spaceships, atomic power stations, pipelines, new roads and highways.
But it cannot be denied that the price for rapid industrial development is very high: natural resources are exhausted, the ecological balance of the planet is disturbed; some species of flora and fauna disappear; city and industry waters, chemicals and fertilizers are endangering lakes, rivers and ponds. Big cities have a problem with air pollution: the "Killer Smog" caused some 3500-4000 deaths in London in December 1952. Progress can be blamed for all these environmental problems.
In recent years the pollution problems have received great publicity. The Environmental movement associated with no political party has gained widespread trust and support. Environmental activists stress that the problem is caused by industrial pollution and the automobile. Long-established environmental groups warn that acid rains threaten many forests. The media's begun to campaign against the ugliness of billboards, tin cans and trash. Many people started to realize that to keep air and water clean, strict pollution control is necessary.
The protection of natural resources and wildlife isbecoming a political program in every country. Numerous anti-pollution acts passed in different countries led to considerable improvements in environment. In many countries purifying systems for treatment of industrial waters have been installed, measures have been taken to protect rivers and seas from oil waters.
Wildlife reservation models of undisturbed nature are being developed in some parts of the world.
But the environmental problems have grown beyond the concern of a single country. Their solution requires the cooperation of all nations.
Questions:
1. What are advantages of industrial development?
2. What are disadvantages of industrial development?
3. What do Environmental activists do?
4. What has been done in many countries to improve the environment?
5. Why do the environmental problems require the cooperation of all nations?
