Use of English

Urban Waste

Many people care about climate change, but environmental problems are not limited to rising temperatures. In towns and cities, rubbish is also becoming a serious issue. Local councils often encourage residents to cut (0) DOWN on waste, yet large amounts of plastic still end up in the streets or in rivers. One reason is that people often throw things (1) .......... instead of reusing them. Another is that packaging is designed for convenience rather than long-term use. Some experts argue that real progress depends (2) .......... changes in everyday habits. For example, shoppers can bring their own bags, and restaurants can reduce the number of disposable items they hand (3) .......... to customers. Schools can also play an important role by raising awareness and encouraging students to take (4) .......... in local clean-up projects. However, individuals cannot solve the problem alone. Governments need to bring (5) .......... stricter rules for companies that produce unnecessary packaging. If manufacturers were made responsible for the waste they create, they might think twice before putting so much material on the market. In the end, dealing with pollution is not just about having good ideas; it also calls (6) .......... action. Unless people, businesses and governments work (7) .........., the problem will continue to grow. Protecting the environment is a challenge we can no longer put (8) .......... .