environmental problem

[/ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmɛntəl ˈprɑbləm/]
nounpl: environmental problems
problema ambiental
1. An issue or concern that negatively affects the natural environment, ecosystems, or human health through pollution, resource depletion, or ecological degradation
Climate change is one of the most pressing environmental problems facing humanity today.
As mudanças climáticas são um dos problemas ambientais mais urgentes enfrentados pela humanidade atualmente.
2. A specific environmental challenge such as air pollution, water contamination, deforestation, or waste management
The city is addressing the environmental problem of plastic waste in the ocean.
A cidade está enfrentando o problema ambiental do lixo plástico no oceano.
In Brazil, environmental problems are increasingly central to public discourse, particularly regarding Amazon deforestation, water management (especially post-drought crises), and urban pollution in major cities like São Paulo. In the USA, the term is commonly used in policy, education, and activism contexts, with significant regional focus on specific issues like water scarcity in the West and hurricane preparedness in coastal areas.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
environmental issueecological problemenvironmental concernsustainability issue
Antonyms / Antônimos
environmental solutionecological restoration

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
problema ambiental
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
problema ambiental
Same as general Brazilian usage; sometimes 'questão ambiental' is used
São Paulo
problema ambiental
Standard usage; context often includes industrial and urban pollution
Portugal
problema ambiental
Same translation; may emphasize 'questão ambiental' in formal contexts

Related Words

sustainabilitypollutionconservationclimate changedeforestationbiodiversity lossrenewable energy

Related Idioms & Phrases

going green
save the planet
environmental footprint
carbon footprint
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