The environment refers to the surroundings or conditions in which a particular organism, individual, or group operates and exists. It includes various elements such as the physical, biological, social, cultural, and economic factors that impact these entities. The environment encompasses both the natural world and the built environment that humans have created.
In the natural world, the environment encompasses aspects like the atmosphere, including the air composition and climate patterns; the hydrosphere, including oceans, rivers, and lakes; the lithosphere, including landforms, soils, and minerals; and the biosphere, including all living organisms. These natural components interact and create a complex web of relationships that maintain balance and support life. Human activities can significantly impact these natural systems, often detrimentally, leading to issues such as pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.
The built environment is the human-made surroundings that humans inhabit. It includes buildings, infrastructure, cities, and other designed spaces. The built environment has a direct impact on human well-being, influencing factors like air and water quality, access to resources, transportation systems, and opportunities for social and economic development.
An awareness of the environment and our impact on it has led to the development of environmental sciences and conservation efforts. These aim to understand and mitigate the negative impacts humans have on the environment and promote sustainable practices that support the health and well-being of both the natural world and human societies.
