How to use this lesson: read each item aloud, notice the collocation, cover the definition and retrieve the word from memory. Then use at least three items in your own sentences.
10 useful words and phrases
emission
Gas released into the air.
Example: The policy aims to cut carbon emissions.
Natural collocation: reduce emissions
pollution
Harmful substances in the environment.
Example: Air pollution is a major urban problem.
Natural collocation: reduce pollution
renewable
Naturally replaced and therefore sustainable.
Example: Solar power is a renewable source of energy.
Natural collocation: renewable energy
recycle
To process waste so it can be used again.
Example: We recycle paper, glass and plastic.
Natural collocation: recycle waste
waste
Unwanted material that is thrown away.
Example: The restaurant is reducing food waste.
Natural collocation: household waste
habitat
The natural home of an animal or plant.
Example: Wetlands provide an important habitat for birds.
Natural collocation: natural habitat
species
A group of similar plants or animals.
Example: Several species are threatened by habitat loss.
Natural collocation: endangered species
drought
A long period with little or no rain.
Example: The drought affected local farms.
Natural collocation: severe drought
flood
A large amount of water covering normally dry land.
Example: Heavy rain caused local floods.
Natural collocation: flash flood
conserve
To protect something from damage or waste.
Example: We need to conserve water during summer.
Natural collocation: conserve resources
Quick vocabulary check
- 1. Which word means “gas released into the air”? emission
- 2. Which word means “harmful substances in the environment”? pollution
- 3. Which word means “naturally replaced and therefore sustainable”? renewable
- 4. Which word means “to process waste so it can be used again”? recycle
- 5. Which word means “unwanted material that is thrown away”? waste
Make the vocabulary active
Choose five items above and make them personal. Say one true sentence about your life, work, studies or experience for each item. For stronger recall, return tomorrow and try to reproduce the collocations without looking.