It is vital to protect our environment against the degradation and destruction caused by human beings. A clean and safe environment enables us to lead healthy and productive lives.

Pollutants in the air can damage the ozone layer

The ozone layer protects the Earth from the harmful rays of the sun. Pollutants can create acid rain, which harms trees and lakes. Carbon dioxide and other 'greenhouse gases' are release when forests are cut and fossil fuels are burnt, which are contributing to climate change

Climate change can bring about more extreme weather

The increase in hurricanes, cyclones, floods and drought are signs of a change to our normal weather patterns. Increasing sea levels are threatening islands and low-lying coastal areas in the Commonwealth. Some 250 million people have been affected by desertification, with nearly one billion at risk.

Population pressures and poverty aggravate the situation

Land and natural resources are over-exploited. The poorest people in the world suffer the most, as they do not have access to the natural resources they need to live well. They have fewer alternatives to meet their daily needs when environment is degraded.