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
biodiversity
The variety of plant and animal life in an area.
Example: The project aims to protect biodiversity.
Natural collocation: loss of biodiversity
ecosystem
A community of living things and their environment.
Example: Pollution can damage a river ecosystem.
Natural collocation: fragile ecosystem
carbon footprint
The total greenhouse gases caused by an activity or person.
Example: Taking fewer flights can reduce your carbon footprint.
Natural collocation: reduce your carbon footprint
climate
The usual weather conditions of a place over a long period.
Example: The region has a dry climate.
Natural collocation: changing climate
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
Quick vocabulary check
- 1. Which word means “the variety of plant and animal life in an area”? biodiversity
- 2. Which word means “a community of living things and their environment”? ecosystem
- 3. Which word means “the total greenhouse gases caused by an activity or person”? carbon footprint
- 4. Which word means “the usual weather conditions of a place over a long period”? climate
- 5. Which word means “gas released into the air”? emission
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.