15 essential words — with definitions, examples and pronunciation. Double-click any word to look it up instantly.
biodiversitynoun
The variety of plant and animal life in the world.
“Rainforests contain extraordinary biodiversity.”
carbon footprintnoun
The total greenhouse gas emissions caused by a person or activity.
“Flying greatly increases your carbon footprint.”
conservationnoun
The protection of natural environments and wildlife.
“Conservation efforts have helped protect endangered species.”
deforestationnoun
The removal of forests on a large scale.
“Deforestation in the Amazon threatens thousands of species.”
droughtnoun
A long period of abnormally low rainfall.
“The drought lasted for three years and destroyed crops.”
ecosystemnoun
A system of living things and their environment.
“Coral reefs are incredibly complex ecosystems.”
emissionnoun
The production and release of gas into the air.
“Car emissions are a major cause of air pollution.”
extinctadjective
No longer existing as a species.
“The dodo became extinct in the 17th century.”
fossil fuelnoun
Coal, oil or gas formed from ancient organisms.
“Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide.”
glaciernoun
A large slow-moving body of ice.
“Glaciers are melting rapidly due to climate change.”
greenhouse gasnoun
Gas that traps heat in the atmosphere.
“CO2 is the most common greenhouse gas produced by humans.”
recycleverb
To process waste materials so they can be used again.
“We recycle glass, paper and plastic at home.”
renewableadjective
From a source that is naturally replenished.
“Solar and wind are renewable energy sources.”
sustainableadjective
Able to be maintained without damaging the environment.
“Sustainable farming protects soil for future generations.”
toxicadjective
Poisonous or very harmful.
“The factory was fined for releasing toxic chemicals.”
Vocabulary Quiz
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