附阅读语篇：
Pollution: A Threat to Our Planet
(Adapted from National Geographic Education with original sentence structures preserved)
Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. These harmful materials are called pollutants. Pollutants damage the quality of air, water, and land.
Major Types and Effects
Polluted air can be dangerous. Most air pollution is not natural. It comes from burning fossil fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas. As a result, people have difficulty breathing and die prematurely each year (WHO).
Water pollution threatens life. Human activity contributes to water pollution. Factories dump chemicals into rivers. This creates “dead zones” where little life exists below surface water. For example, more than two million animals died as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Land pollution spreads toxins. For example, garbage often contains dangerous pollutants such as oils, chemicals, and ink. These pollutants can leech into the soil and harm plants, animals, and people.
What We Can Do
Around the world, people and governments are making efforts to combat pollution. To solve these problems, here are proven solutions:
First, reduce plastic use. According to researchers, recycling could cut ocean waste by 50%.
Second, support clean energy. Solar and wind power don't produce air pollution.
Third, dispose of chemicals properly. This prevents soil and water contamination.
Conclusion
In summary, pollution is a global crisis. Although the challenges are great, the good news is everyone can help. Let us all work together for a cleaner Earth!