Summary
<p>Earth looks very different today than it did just a couple hundred years ago. This period of rapid environmental change has been driven by industrialization, human population growth, and overconsumption of natural resources. As a result, some scientists unofficially call the time we're living in the Anthropocene, meaning "age of humans." Natural resources like water, trees, and fossil fuels power a global product life cycle: extraction, processing, manufacturing, shipping, use, and disposal. At almost every stage, energy is used and pollution is created. Other practices like disposable plastic use, long-distance travel, and meat-heavy diets also take a heavy toll on the environment. The result is shrinking habitats, mass extinction, and changing climates. Press "play" to find out how sustainable choices can act as votes for a more environmentally friendly future. </p> <p></p>
Viewer safety
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Humans and the Environment:
- What is one new thing you learned about humans and the environment?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining humans and the environment.
- Draw or give one example of your own.