Washington's Environment and Sustainability Challenge

What is a watershed?

• A storage area for water

• An area of land where all the water under it or draining off of it goes into the same place

• A man-made structure for water conservation

• A type of water filtration system

How does climate change potentially impact Washington's water systems?

• By increasing the frequency of droughts

• By causing more frequent and severe storms

• By reducing snowpack in the mountains

• All of the above

What is sustainability?

• Using resources at a faster rate than they can be replenished

• Maintaining ecological balance by avoiding depletion of natural resources

• Increasing the use of fossil fuels to boost the economy

• A policy that supports urban development over environmental protection

Which of the following is a sustainable practice?

• Recycling paper and plastic

• Using disposable plastic water bottles

• Leaving the water running while brushing teeth

• Driving a gas-guzzling vehicle for short trips

What is the primary cause of climate change?

• Solar flares

• Deforestation

• Greenhouse gas emissions

• Overpopulation

Which region of Washington is known for its dry, arid climate?

• The Olympic Peninsula

• The Puget Sound Lowlands

• The Cascade Mountains

• The Columbia Plateau

What is the role of trees in watersheds?

• They decrease the amount of water in the watershed

• They have no impact on watersheds

• They help to filter and regulate water flow

• They increase pollution in the water

Why is it important to conserve water even in regions with abundant rainfall?

• To reduce water bills

• Because water is a finite resource and demand can exceed supply

• To make it available for bottled water companies

• Because it's a legal requirement

What is an example of a non-renewable resource?

• Solar energy

• Wind energy

• Coal

• Water

Which of the following actions can reduce your carbon footprint?

• Taking long showers

• Planting a tree

• Using incandescent light bulbs

• Driving to school instead of walking