In common with the other countries, Britain has serious environmental problems. In 1952, more than 4, 000 people died in London because of the smog. The government introduced new laws to stop smog from coal fires and factories and the situation improved a lot.
Today, London is much cleaner but there is a new problem: smog from cars. In December 1991. there was very little wind in London and pollution increased a lot. As a result, about 160 people died from pollution in just four days.
Part of the problem is the new "out of town" shopping centers. In the past, people often walked to shops near their homes or went by bus. Now, many people drive to the new shopping centers. As a result, the small shops have disappeared and more people have to travel to do their shopping.
Critics say that Britain needs better and cheaper public transport. Transport in Britain is very expensive. An early morning train trip from Glasgow to Lopdon （about 600km）can cost about 100 pounds for example. A short 15-minute bus trip can cost over 1. 00 pound.
Many people are trying to reduce the use of cars in Britain. Some cities now have special bicycle paths and many people cycle to work. Some people also travel to work together in one car to reduce the pollution and the cost.
Environmental problems in Britain
Time | Causes | Solutions（解决方法） | |
In the | Smog from coal fire and factories. | 4, 000 people died in 1952. | New laws were introduced. |
Today | Smog caused by | About 160 people in a few days in 1991. | Provide better and cheaper public transport. Build special paths for bicycles. Travel to workin one car. |
