CFCs are used in fridges, aerosol cans and in the manufacture of some plastic products. Some companies now make aerosols that do not contain CFCs. They are often marked “ozone-friendly”.

Protection of our environment:
Recycling
How do we reduce the waste which seems to grow more and more? Recycling is the processing of used objects and meterials so that they can be used again. About 60% rubbish from homes and factories contain materials that could be recycled. Recycling saves energy and raw materials, and also reduces damage to the countryside. Glass, paper and aluminium cans all be recycled very easily. Many towns have bottle banks and can banks where people can leave their empty bottles and cans for recycling. A lot of paper bags, writing paper and greetings cards are now produced on recycled paper.

Alternative energy
People should try to use alternative sources of energy. Most of the energy we use today comes from coal, oil and gas. But these will not last for ever, and burning them is slowly harming the atmosphere. We need to look for other ways of supplying energy. Solar power is a way of using the sun´s energy as heat or to make electricity. We can also use wind-power by building modern windmills that spin in the wind. There are several types of water-power. River water in mountains can be used to generate hydroelectric power, and we can also create electricity from sea water flowing in and out with the tides.

Animal and plant protection
Environmental protection should also include animal and plant protection, because the balance of species of plants and animals has also been affected by human activities. Some animals are protected, others are bred in captivity for release in the wild so they have the best chance of survival. Trees are also protected and new ones are planted. The establishment of National Parks and natural reserves provide protection, and also provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are also ecological organizations such as Greenpeace.