Natural Resources

We have a personal responsibility to the natural world to take care of our natural resources. If our natural resources fail, we will in turn have failed our decedents by leaving behind a life that is harder to live. Imagine that water is limited to the point that there is only one source on the planet. Imagine that the air is full of pollutants because trees are almost extinct. What kind of future do we want to leave our kids, grandkids, and great grandkids? The future of our fresh water supply is beginning to become a concern that if not addressed could become a global issue. With the rate of use and consumption on the rise, as global population increases, we need to be aware of what the dangers could be if we do not slow down. An article called “Water Pressure” says the following: “All over the globe farmers and municipalities are pumping water out of the ground faster than it can be replenished.” (Montaigne) Clearly as the writer of this article has stated, water consumption is becoming a growing concern. While consumption is a concern on the radar, the effect that water supplies drying up will more likely take a toll on the wild life. When water decreases due to water tables that are unable to replenish quick enough, fish and other animals that depend on fish for food, will be affected. Brian Richter of The Nature Conservancy says “as we dry up a river or lake to harvest or export its water, the health of the fish population and natural fresh water ecosystems plummet.” (Richter) Water is the substance of life for all creatures that inhabit this earth. As stewards of this earth while we are here, it is our duty to ensure that we take care of this world, so that we can help preserve mankind. Here are some things that we can do to help ensure that are water supply will last: make sure that you turn the faucet completely off, plant only plants that can survive in your native climate, and do not let the water run while you are brushing your teeth. To some,

Cited: Abbey, Edward. “Eco-Defense.” Reading Literature and Writing Argument. Ed. Missy James and Alan Merickel. 5th ed. Upper Saddle River: Pearson/Prentice Hall, 2013. 348- 349. Print. “The Benefits of Trees.” Arborlogical Services. INC. 20 July 2010: n.pag. arborlogical.com. web. 23 May 2013. Montaigne, Fen. “Water Pressure.” National Geographic 2013: n. pag. environment.nationalgeographic.com. web. 21 May 2013. Richter, Brian. “Are we running out of water.” National Geographic 14 March 2012: n. pag. newswatch.nationalgeographic.com. web. 22 May 2013.