This document presents a survey of ideas concerning environmental issues and educational efforts to improve the quality of life. Chapter one, "Environmental Education for Understanding and Solving Environmental Problems," includes sections on the relationship between cultural heritage and the environment, and methodologies in environmental education. Chapter two, "Basic Components of Environmental Problems," addresses the functions of the biosphere and basic ecological principles. Chapter three, "Fundamental Problems of the Man-Environment Interaction," includes sections on ecological balance, atmospheric pollution, conservation and management of water resources, ocean pollution, conservation of land and forest resources, population growth, nutrition problems, and urbanization. Chapter four, "A New Approach to Studies and Protection of the Environment," contains information on economic development, management of environmental protection, and international cooperation in environmental protection. The document was designed to be a sourcebook of information for elementary and secondary teachers. A glossary is included. (TW)