Question

"Affluent life style has a negative effect on the environment." Justify this statement with the help of an example.

Mention one negative effect of our affluent life style on the environment.

Answer 1

Affluent lifestyle has led to the exploitation of natural resources. 

There are many consequences of exploitation of natural resources. Some examples are given below:

• Burning of fossil fuels creates air pollution. Excess amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leads to global warming. Some polluting gases; like oxides of nitrogen and sulphur lead to acid rain, which is harmful for living beings. Acid rain is also harmful for monuments and buildings.
• Excess exploitation of groundwater leads to a drastic fall in water table. This is the reason many places are experiencing acute shortage of drinking water.
• Overuse of fertilisers and insecticides leads to soil pollution and soil erosion.
• Many pollutants are directly flown into water bodies. This has resulted in water pollution in many rivers, lakes and even in oceans.