Crude oil leaks can be a threat to environmental conservation.
Environmental conservation involves trying to protect the habitats of certain life forms, including plants and animals. Conservation efforts may also include taking steps to protect the Earth from the harmful effects of natural and man-made hazards and pollutants. Some environmental conservation programs are sponsored by governments, but many of these programs are also spearheaded by businesses and non-profit groups.
Animal conservationists sometimes breed animals in captivity.
Many types of animals are in danger of extinction due to the loss of their habitat. Human expansion into forested areas and other remote locations can negatively impact native animals because some rely on plant life and water sources that are destroyed during this process. Some conservation groups try to minimize habitat destruction through publicity campaigns designed to raise awareness of the problem. Zoologists and animal conservationists sometimes attempt to breed endangered species in captivity to ensure that animal populations do not become extinct due to habitat loss. Successfully bred animals are sometimes reintroduced into the wild in areas that have not been affected by human activities.
Reusing or recycling glass bottles can be considered environmental preservation.
Scientists committed to environmental conservation are trying to create new environmentally friendly chemicals and materials that can replace harmful substances. Certain types of gas can intensify the effects of solar radiation and cause harm to humans and animals. Some publicly and privately funded researchers are trying to develop new types of propellants and fuels that contain less harmful gases. Also, some types of materials, including plastic, do not deteriorate over time, and safe disposal of such products can be difficult. Conservation efforts in many nations are focused on creating biodegradable materials to replace plastics.
Environmental conservation includes protecting the habitats of endangered animals.
In addition to preventing pollution, many environmental preservation efforts focus on reversing damage that has already occurred. When oil tankers or platforms leak, large amounts of crude oil can be harmful to marine plants and animals. Conservation groups try to clean up these spills with chemicals and dredging equipment. In other cases, scientists use a variety of techniques to remove chemicals and pollutants from rivers, oceans, and lakes. This improves the natural habitat of fish and other animals, but also benefits humans who have more access to clean water.
Environmental conservation programs often involve large organizations, but many people do these small-scale efforts indoors, such as reusing or recycling plastic bottles, cups, and products. Many cities have recycling stations where consumers can drop off used paper, plastic, and glass products. These materials are recycled and used to create new products. Consequently, fewer habitats are damaged because fewer trees are cut down to create paper and fewer oil wells are needed to produce plastic and other by-products of crude oil. Efforts to develop renewable energy sources, such as solar and hydroelectric power, also aim to reduce reliance on oil and other types of energy that cause pollution and will eventually run out.