Environmentally-detrimental

Describing actions, processes, or substances that cause harm or damage to the environment, including air, water, land, and ecosystems. This includes pollution, resource depletion, habitat destruction, and contributing to climate change. The impact can range from localized issues to global-scale ecological crises. The term encompasses activities that negatively affect the delicate balance of natural systems, harming wildlife, human health, and the long-term sustainability of the planet.

Environmentally-detrimental meaning with examples

• The widespread use of single-use plastics is an environmentally-detrimental practice, leading to pollution of oceans and landfills. Discarded bottles and bags harm marine life and disrupt delicate ecosystems. Reducing our consumption and seeking eco-friendly alternatives is crucial to mitigate the harm caused by this common practice. Sustainable choices are necessary.
• Large-scale deforestation, driven by agriculture and logging, is environmentally-detrimental. It leads to habitat loss, soil erosion, and reduced biodiversity, significantly impacting ecosystems and the ability to mitigate climate change, which is caused by releasing CO2 into the atmosphere. Reforestation efforts are essential but often too slow to reverse the damage.
• The burning of fossil fuels for energy production is an environmentally-detrimental activity, contributing significantly to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. This affects climate change. Moving towards renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, is vital to reduce our carbon footprint and protect the environment.
• Certain industrial processes release pollutants that are environmentally-detrimental, contaminating water sources and soil. The discharge of untreated wastewater into rivers and oceans poisons ecosystems and harms human health. Strict regulations and waste management strategies are needed to manage the risks.
• Unsustainable agricultural practices, like excessive pesticide use and intensive farming, can be environmentally-detrimental, harming biodiversity and depleting soil nutrients. These farming methods also frequently contribute to the runoff of harmful chemicals into the environment. Sustainable agricultural approaches are needed to minimize the environmental impact.