Nature and Environment

The list of discussion questions on this page is part of a publication called Number One ESL Discussion Book & Reference Guide.

1. How often do you spend time in nature? What benefits do you find in doing so?

2. How bad is air pollution where you live? How about water pollution? Can you drink water from the faucet? What can be done about air pollution in your city? What can be done about water pollution?

3. Describe a memorable outdoor adventure you’ve had. Where was it? Who was with you? What did you do?

4. What steps do you take to live a more sustainable lifestyle and reduce your environmental footprint? For example, do you recycle, try to reduce waste, or try to conserve energy?

5. In some countries, thousands of people move from the rural areas to the cities every month. What kinds of problems does this cause? Does your country have a problem with urbanization? What incentives can motivate people to stay in rural areas?

6. Share a story about a time when you witnessed the beauty of nature firsthand: Where was it? Who was with you? What happened?

7. What kind of natural disasters happen in your country? Share a story about a time when you experienced a natural disaster: What kind of disaster was it? Where were you? What happened?

8. What are some local or global environmental challenges that concern you the most? Why do these challenges concern you?

9. Can you share a story about a conservation effort you’ve been involved in?

10. Give examples of cultural attitudes or beliefs that influence people’s relationships with nature and the environment. How would attitudes be different between people who live in the city and people who live in the countryside?

11. How do urbanization and development affect natural habitats and ecosystems? Please provide examples.

12. How can children be inspired to take better care of the environment?

13. Why is it important to protect and preserve biodiversity? For example, why is it important that there is more than one variety of bananas available in supermarkets?

14. Name some endangered animal species in your country. How can we protect a species from extinction? Can you name any animals that have become extinct? Are there any animals that have become extinct in your country?

15. What is your opinion of eco-friendly travel and eco-friendly outdoor recreation?

16. Are there any environmental policies or initiatives in your community or country that you support or advocate for?

17. How can individuals and communities work together to address environmental challenges?

18. Can you share a story about a time when you witnessed environmental degradation, like deforestation or a factory polluting a river?

19. What kind of natural resources does your country have? Is it possible that some of your country’s natural resources can be used up in a few years? What kind of natural resources does your country need?

20. What can corporations and businesses do to promote environmental sustainability? What actions do you think governments and international organizations should take to address pressing environmental issues?

21. What is the population of your country? Is overpopulation a problem in your country? What kind of problems can overpopulation cause? How can resources and space be better managed to allow the population to grow?

22. Some countries like Japan, Italy and Russia have serious problems with low population growth. Does your country experience low population growth? What problems does low population growth cause? What are some solutions to this problem?

Number One ESL Discussion Book & Reference Guide: CONTENTS