UNIT 3: Environmental Issues
What topics about environmental issues are you interested in? Why?
I'm very interested in the topic of climate change, especially how it affects countries like
Ecuador. Ecuador has a rich biodiversity and beautiful natural areas like the Galápagos
Islands and the Amazon rainforest, which are very sensitive to climate change. Rising
temperatures, irregular rainfall, and extreme weather events are already impacting
farming and water resources here. I care about this issue because if we don’t act now,
these natural treasures and the communities that depend on them will suffer greatly.
How much do you care about the environment?
I care a lot about the environment because in Ecuador, many people depend directly on
nature for their food, water, and income. I try to help by doing small actions every day,
like recycling plastic and paper, saving water when I shower or brush my teeth, and
avoiding the use of single-use plastic. I believe if each person in Ecuador contributes,
we can make a big difference together.
Do you think the environment is in danger? Why or why not?
Yes, I believe the environment is definitely in danger. In Ecuador, we can see this in the
contamination of rivers, especially from mining and oil extraction in the Amazon. Also,
cities like Guayaquil and Quito suffer from air pollution and too much garbage. The
deforestation of native forests and the loss of animal habitats are serious problems.
These are clear signs that we need to take better care of our natural resources.
What can we do to protect the environment?
In Ecuador, we can start by reducing, reusing, and recycling more seriously. People
should avoid burning garbage and stop throwing trash in rivers and streets. Using
bicycles or electric buses can reduce pollution. Planting trees, especially in deforested
areas, is very important. Education is key – we need to teach young people to love and
respect nature. Also, the government should support clean energy projects like solar or
wind power.
How do people create waste? Explain.
People create waste when they buy things they don’t really need or use products with
too much packaging. In Ecuador, it’s common to see plastic bags, bottles, and food
containers thrown in the streets or rivers. Many people also throw away old clothes,
electronics, and leftover food, instead of donating or reusing them. Industries and
markets also generate a lot of garbage every day.
How can we produce less waste?
We can produce less waste by using reusable items like cloth bags, water bottles, and
food containers. In Ecuador, we can also buy from local markets and bring our own
containers instead of using plastic. Composting fruit and vegetable waste is a good idea
for people who have gardens. It's also important to think before buying – do I really
need this, or is it going to become trash soon?
What environmental policies does your country or city need? Explain.
Ecuador needs stronger recycling programs and more education campaigns to teach
people how to separate their waste. The cities need more garbage bins and better public
transportation to reduce car use. Laws against pollution from mining and oil companies
should be enforced more strictly. Also, we need to protect areas like mangroves, forests,
and rivers, which are being destroyed by illegal activities.
How can you describe a city that is good to live in?
A good city to live in is clean, green, and safe. It should have trees, parks, and clean
streets. Public transportation should be efficient and environmentally friendly. People
should feel safe walking or biking. In Ecuador, a good city should also have good
schools, health services, and spaces where families can enjoy time outdoors without
pollution or noise. Community participation is very important too.
UNIT 4: Technology and Innovation
Are people dependent on machines? Do you agree or not? What about you?
Yes, people are very dependent on machines today, and I agree this is true in Ecuador as
well. We use machines like phones, computers, and even cooking appliances every day.
In my case, I use my smartphone to study, communicate, and get news. My family uses
machines like the washing machine, blender, and TV all the time. Machines save us
time, but we also need to be careful not to depend on them too much and forget basic
skills.
Which do you consider is one of the most important inventions in the world?
Explain.
I believe the internet is one of the most important inventions in the world. In Ecuador, it
has become a very useful tool, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when we had
to study and work from home. The internet helps people in small towns connect with
information, learn new things, and even create businesses online. It also helps us stay in
touch with family and friends who live far away.
What would you like to be invented? Why?
I would like someone to invent a machine that turns plastic waste into clean energy. In
Ecuador, there is a lot of plastic waste that ends up in rivers, streets, and even on
beaches. A machine like this would help reduce pollution and provide energy to
communities that need electricity, especially in the rural Amazon region. It would be a
great way to solve two problems at the same time.
What smart gadgets do you have in your home? What do they do? Why are they
smart?
In my home, we have a smart TV that connects to the internet and lets us watch movies
and news from platforms like YouTube or Netflix. We also have a smartphone, which is
very useful for studying, sending messages, and using maps. These gadgets are smart
because they use technology to do more than just one task, and they can learn from how
we use them.
Would you like to have a robot? Why or why not?
Yes, I would like to have a robot at home to help with cleaning or organizing. In
Ecuador, many people have to work long hours, and a robot could help save time and
make life easier. However, I think it’s important not to depend on robots too much. We
still need to do things by ourselves and teach children to be responsible and
independent.
