The environment is the natural world that surrounds us—air, water, soil, plants, animals, and all living and non-living things. It sustains life on Earth and provides the resources we need for survival: food, water, shelter, and energy. Over the centuries, human activities have had a profound impact on the environment, and today, environmental degradation is one of the most critical issues facing our planet. The environment is not only a resource; it is the delicate web of systems that supports life on Earth. Healthy ecosystems regulate climate, purify water, pollinate crops, and provide habitats for wildlife.