# environmentalism

/ɛnˈvaɪɹənˌmɛnəˌɫɪzəm/ (US) · /ɛnvˌaɪɹənmˈɛntəlˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/environmentalism
Updated: 2026-06-22

## Definition

the belief that we should protect the natural world and stop harming it. It involves taking action to keep the air, water, and land clean.

For teachers: the political and social movement dedicated to the protection of the natural environment. It encompasses both the ideology of conservation and the practical efforts to mitigate ecological damage.

## Examples

- Environmentalism is becoming a major focus for many young voters.
- The city council passed new laws to support environmentalism by banning single-use plastics and expanding public parks.
- While early environmentalism focused primarily on preserving wilderness areas, modern movements often address the systemic causes of climate change and industrial pollution through legislative reform.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.