North Carolina Environmental Impacts

The environmental aspects of the state of North Carolina are unlike any other; varying from the ecosystems of the coast to those of the mountains in the west. With such diversity, North Carolina is bound to attract throngs of people, which it does. This vast population requires the use of natural resources, and in order for long-term civilization to be feasible, sustainability must be kept in mind. As previously stated, North Carolina is hosts a multitude of different ecosystems. There are, however, three major subdivisions. On the eastern side of the state lies the coastal plain region. In the center of the state, the piedmont area resides. Far to the west, the mountain takes over. Though each of these areas each have their own characteristics, …show more content…
Since the time of Native Americans, the earth's resources have been used, typically in ways which have negative impacts. One major negative impact is the threat to biodiversity which humans pose. With the urbanization of the state, combined with the results of such urbanization, biodiversity is in severe danger. When biodiversity is limited, the negative effects are not only spread to those organisms which are immediately affected. The loss of biodiversity has tremendous negative effects on human life as well. Many medicines, for example, are derived from plants. When such plants are threatened by the loss of biodiversity, the health of the citizens are as well. Biodiversity also provides a type of "cushion" when natural disasters occur. The diversity of organisms makes extinction more difficult, and without it, minor tragedies can cause immense damage. Biodiversity is the key to stability and must be preserved whenever …show more content…
The current manner of deriving energy and overall way of life employed by man today cannot and will not be feasible in the future. Steps must be taken in order to secure resources for future generations. One resource for which major concern exists is water. With a very small portion of the earth's water being fresh, it is crucial that measures are taken to preserve it. One simple remedy to this issue is to take shorter showers. By taking shorter showers, not only is water conserved by not using it, but less water requires cleaning, a difficult process. Another way to keep water from requiring intense cleaning is to refrain from disposing harmful chemicals by means of a drain. Many cities offer harmful chemical disposal opportunities, making it easy for citizens to help keep their environment clean. Another major concern in terms of sustainability is that of air quality. What with the manufacturing and automobile pollutants, the quality of the air in North Carolina is indeed at risk. A great way for an average citizen to reduce air pollution is to carpool. By riding together, the amount of pollution is reduced. Better yet, riding a bicycle or walking eliminates air pollution