Chapter 5 focused study guide
Environmental Responsibility and Recycling in the UK
Learn the environmental responsibilities of residents, including recycling, waste reduction and care for neighbourhoods and wildlife.
Section 5.8.2
Looking after the environment
Environmental responsibility includes reducing waste, recycling correctly, saving energy and water, and respecting public spaces. Local councils set collection arrangements, so rules can differ by area.
National and local government, businesses, charities and individuals all have roles in protecting the environment. Everyday choices do not replace public policy, but they contribute to shared outcomes.
Targeted practice
Questions about Looking after the environment
These questions prioritise terms covered on this page. Open an answer to review the explanation before moving to the full Chapter 5 practice set.
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Sample question 1
Which two of the following are environmental charities?
Show answer and explanation
Answer: The National Trust and Friends of the Earth
The National Trust and Friends of the Earth are environmental charities.
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Sample question 2
The Northern Ireland Assembly cannot make decisions on:
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Answer: Defence
The Northern Ireland Assembly can make decisions on issues such as education, agriculture, the environment, health and social services. It cannot make decisions on defence.
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Sample question 3
Which of the following is not a duty of the police?
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Answer: Protect the environment
The job of the police in the UK is to protect life and property, prevent disturbances (also known as keeping the peace) and prevent and detect crime.
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Sample question 4
On which of the following issues the Northern Ireland Assembly CANNOT make decisions?
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Answer: Planning
The Northern Ireland Assembly can make decisions on issues such as education, agriculture, the environment, health and social services.
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Sample question 5
Why is it important to recycle (select two answers)?
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Answer: Using recycled materials to make new products uses less energy than using raw materials and Less rubbish is created, so the amount being put into landfill is reduced
It is important to recycle as much of your waste as you can. Using recycled materials to make new products uses less energy and means that we do not need to extract more raw materials from the earth. It also means that less rubbish is created, so the amount being put into landfill is reduced.
Further verification
Official and primary sources
Use the official handbook for the knowledge syllabus. For current administrative information or broader context, consult the relevant primary source.
Reviewed 27 July 2026. See the editorial policy and factual update log.