Discussing Environmental Issues

The government are holding an important meeting about environmental issues. They have

invited Dr Swan to speak about the topic…

Government Representative: Good morning everyone! Thank you all for coming. We have

a lot to cover today in relation to the current environmental issues we are facing in our

country and some possible solutions. A top ecologist, Dr Swan, is with us and he is going to

shed some light on the situation. Please introduce yourself, Dr Swan…

Dr Swan: Good morning everyone. My name is Dr Edward Swan, and I am an ecologist

from the British Ecological Society. I specialise in nature-based solutions for climate change.

Government representative: Thank you, Dr Swan. Which environmental problem do you

think poses the most serious threat to our country?

Dr Swan: Undoubtedly, the most serious threat to our environment is air pollution which is

primarily caused by exhaust fumes. Also, non-renewable energy resources including fossil

fuels such as natural gas, oil and coal are very limited in supply.

Government representative: And what will the consequences be if nothing is done?

Dr Swan: Well, recent research suggests that the greenhouse effect will increase by up to

30% by 2050 which will lead to rapid global warming and climate change. As a result, we

will be suffering from extreme weather conditions, more illnesses and drought.

Government representative: Yes, we’ve had similar conclusions based on an analysis of the

current situation from other scientists. What are your suggestions for preventing such a

situation?

Dr Swan: The situation will only improve if global warming slows down. I think it’s vitally

important that the government invests in technology which uses renewable energy sources

including wind, wave, and solar energy to fulfil our energy needs and to encourage people to

think and live greener.

Government representative: Thank you for your suggestion, Dr Swan – we will take it into

consideration.