environment

Everyday

1. The environment is the natural world — air, water, land, plants and animals — that all living things depend on. tree →
2. An environment is the surroundings and conditions where a person, animal or plant lives or works. tree →
3. In computing, an environment is the set of programs and settings you work in. tree →

In the lessons

In science and geography lessons we study how plants and animals are adapted to their environment, and how pollution, litter and climate change harm the environment; recycling, saving energy and planting trees help protect it. At school a «safe learning environment» means a classroom where everyone feels safe. Phrases: «protect the environment», «harm the environment», «a safe environment», «environment-friendly», «natural environment».

Examples

• We should protect the environment by recycling. tree →
• Litter is bad for the environment. tree →
• A polar bear's environment is cold and icy. tree →
• Plants need the right environment to grow. tree →
• Our school wants a safe, friendly environment. tree →
• Cars that burn petrol pollute the environment. tree →
• Camels are adapted to a desert environment. tree →
• Saving water is good for the environment. tree →

Note

Tricky spelling: there is an n before the m: enviro-N-ment. Adjective: environmental. «The environment» (with «the») usually means nature in general.