Write this in to a 7-8 sentences in a 9th grade level

The environment refers to the natural world around us, including the air we breathe, water sources, and the land we live on. It plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth and maintaining a delicate balance. Unfortunately, human activities have often been harmful to the environment, leading to issues such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Pollution, caused by the release of harmful substances into the air or water, has negative impacts on both plants and animals, and can even affect human health. Deforestation, the clearing of forests for urban development or agriculture, disrupts ecosystems and reduces biodiversity. Lastly, climate change, primarily caused by the build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, brings about extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and the loss of habitats for many species. As we continue to witness the consequences of our actions, it is crucial that we take collective responsibility and work towards sustainable practices to protect and preserve our environment for future generations.