TL:

Read the following passage and decide if the statements are true (T) or false (F)

Pollution is one of the greatest problems facing mankind. The nuclear accident at Chernobyl and the poisoning of the river Rhine by chemicals are just two recent examples of disasters affecting the environment. What can be done? Some people say there is no practical solution. However, I believe the problem can be dealt with on three levels: internationally, nationally, and last but not least, on a personal level. Let us begin by looking at the type of international action that can be taken. The first point I would like to make is that, when a disaster such as that at Chernobyl occurs, it affects millions of people. Radiation does not respect international borders. In my opinion, there should be strict safety regulations governing the construction of reactors. Furthermore, reactors should be regularly inspected by teams of international experts. Similarly, if a country wishes to get rid of nuclear waste by dumping it at sea, it should only be allowed once the matter has been thoroughly discussed by all the countries that would be affected. Environmental disasters can be avoided. Let us now look at what can be done on a national level. Governments must be prepared to take action against pollution. For instance, air pollution could be reduced if car manufacturers and companies were made to fit effective filters on car exhausts and factory chimneys. These measures would in turn help to reduce the damage caused to lakes and forests by acid rain. Lastly, what can we do as individuals? Firstly, I believe we should all be prepared to make changes to our lifestyles. Personally, I try and use public transport or my bicycle as much as possible. When I buy petrol, I make sure that it is the lead free variety. Secondly, we can protest against companies responsible for pollution by making our opinions known and hitting them in the pocket. For example, if the public boycotted products such as aerosols, which damage the ozone layer, then manufacturers would have to change their packaging policies. We would show them that we are not prepared to let them get away with destroying the environment. To sum up, I have tried to show that there are steps that can be taken in the fight against pollution. It is a problem that can be solved given the right levels of commitment. However, only by acting as individuals first can we expect governments to act in their turn.

1. There is no solution to natural disasters. F

2. Some people accept pollution as part of life. T

3. The writer is a pessimist. F 

4. The writer suggests that lead free petrol be used. F

5. The writer cannot afford to use his bicycle all the time. T 

$1$:$\text{F}$

$2$:$\text{T}$

$3$:$\text{F}$

$4$:$\text{F}$

$5$:$\text{T}$