1 . Nuclear pollution is a serious global   ___________, brought to the forefront by major accidents at Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima. These events have demonstrated the significant health and environmental risks _________by nuclear disasters. Not only have they caused immediate health problems, such as radiation sickness and increased cancer rates, but they have also _________lasting environmental damage and genetic changes in affected communities. As a result, nuclear pollution remains a pressing concern for governments, scholars, and individuals worldwide.

When nuclear accidents occur in coastal areas, the _________environment becomes a critical concern due to the crucial role that oceans play in _________the climate, ensuring food security, and supporting the livelihoods of billions of people globally. In recent years, the increasing threats to marine ecosystems from ocean pollution have _________public awareness of the need to protect the marine environment. Studies have shown that human activities pose a _________threat to marine environments, emphasizing the importance of improving environmental management and taking measures to mitigate environmental risks.

Following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, efforts to cool the reactors by pumping in seawater resulted in the _________of a significant amount of nuclear waste in the water storage tank at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. _________attempts to manage this waste, the Japanese government’s decision to release nearly 1.26 million tons of nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean over the next 40 years has faced opposition __________neighboring countries, local ____________, and international environmental organizations.

This __________poses serious risks to marine life, fisheries, and human health. Radioactive isotopes present in the wastewater, such as tritium, carbon-14, cobalt-60, and strontium-90, can accumulate in marine organisms and ultimately affect human populations through the food ____________. Therefore, there is an/a ____________need for further research and mitigation measures to __________the widespread impacts of nuclear pollution on the environment and human health.

There are     1     (vary) causes of water pollution. Large amounts of industrial waste poison the water after they enter water bodies. Moreover, animal and human waste pollutes the water. Water pollution is also caused by     2     (poison) chemicals used in agriculture.

    3     (pollute) water bodies not only do harm to animals and plants; they also have a long-lasting effect     4     humans. For example, in many parts of the world, the poor quality of the local     5     (drink) water gives rise     6     public health problems.

    7     (prevent) further damage     8     water bodies, it is necessary to take some measures. First, we must draw public attention     9    the problem. Second, more strict laws should    10     (pass) to help reduce water pollution. Third, we can volunteer to take part in clean-up activities.

Plogging — A Win-Win Activity

When people talk of exploring the sea more, they usually mean exploiting it. Sea exploration has caused many problems and will continue to cause more.

More exploration means more pollution. The Deepwater Horizon spilled over 200 million gallons of oil into the sea in 2010. Plastic pollution is also bad, killing many birds and fish, and has even been found in our tap water.

Mining for resources is very damaging, especially in the Arctic. Because of climate change, there is less ice now, which means we can look for more fossil fuels further north.   But if we burn these, the ice will melt more and this negative cycle will continue. Climate change is warning us that something is very wrong.

Overfishing is another problem. Whales and dolphins are also hunted for their meat or for so­called research. Although this was banned in 1982, some countries are still “murdering” these intelligent creatures without mercy.

The sea is home to life, not human beings’ possessions. It is huge, but it is more sensitive than we think. If we do not protect it, future generations will not forgive us.

To truly understand our planet, we must explore the oceans which cover most of it. Opponents may be concerned, but sea exploration is important for our future. For example, scientific research ships can help address important issues such as climate change. We need to understand what is happening to our planet so that we can take action. Therefore, more research is necessary.

Understanding more about the sea will also help us manage its resources better. Logging new species will improve our understanding of life on the earth. It may help us discover new medicines, as well as new sources of food and energy. Accessing the deep ocean may also help us to predict events such as earthquakes.

The population of the world is growing and we need new resources for future development. There are probably vast amounts of resources under the sea and ice, not just oil and gas but also valuable minerals.

Of course, there are still environmental risks. However, these should be balanced with economic needs. Hopefully， as technology improves, we may have more options for managing this balance.

The Importance of Protecting Our Oceans

As we all know, there are varieties of resources under the sea.

The beautiful Li River and its amazing    1     (surround) scenery is one of the most well­known tourist destinations in China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Previously, water quality in the Li River    2     (suffer) greatly from water pollution. Local officials    3     (concern) that the pollution was damaging the natural environment and felt that urgent steps should    4     (take) to restore the river’s original beauty. A comprehensive initiative was started, with     5    number of measures that addressed the issues. With these measures, it     6     (believe) that the beauty of the Li River will be preserved for generations    7     (come).

    8    addition, the ambitious “Water Ten Plan” is also now tackling water pollution across the country. Other initiatives, such as the “River Chief System”, hold senior officials     9     (response) for reducing water pollution. With such campaigns     10    effect, China’s waterways are heading towards a clean and sustainable future.