Development activities such as construction, transportation and manufacturing not only destroy natural resources but also generate large amounts of waste, causing air, water, soil and marine pollution, global warming and acid rain. Untreated or improperly treated effluent is a major cause of river pollution and environmental degradation, leading to health problems and crop loss. This study considers the main causes of pollution, its effects on the environment and various measures that can be taken to control such pollution.
Contamination of the environment and its natural resources like water, air and land by various pollutants is called environmental pollution. The biggest and most significant harmful effect of pollution is on the environment, which causes the destruction of the environment and the various ecosystems present in it. It has adverse effects on humans and other living and non-living things present in the environment. It is a global issue and has dangerous impacts on people and natural resources. Pollution is defined as the state of contamination of various natural resources of the environment due to the release of toxic chemicals and gases into the earth’s atmosphere, resulting in the destruction of the natural resources of the environment such as land, air and water. Various pollutants polluting the environment can be considered as primary or secondary pollutants and pollutants have short-term or long-term effects on the environment, depending on their vitality and environmental destructive effects.
It is a condition of accumulation of toxic chemicals and gases in the respiratory zone of the earth’s atmosphere, which causes many harmful disorders and diseases to all living organisms that depend on the natural resources of the environment. Pollution occurs in the form of contamination of various environments, such as land, water, air, noise, heat, radio waves and light pollution. When pollutants enter different areas of the environment, species that depend on these natural resources suffer and find it difficult for them to survive. The environment is polluted by various types of pollutants, such as greenhouse gases, harmful heavy metals and harmful chemicals. Pollutants cause long-term and short-term changes in the environment, which have very dangerous effects.
A pollutant is a substance or energy that is introduced into the environment and produces undesirable effects or reduces the usefulness of the resource. Pollutants can cause long-term or short-term harm by altering the growth of plant and animal species or affecting human comfort, convenience, health and property values. Some contaminants are biodegradable, meaning they do not last long in the environment. However, the breakdown products of some contaminants are themselves harmful to the environment. For example, the breakdown products of DDT are 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethylene (DDE) and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (DDD) (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane).
Environmental pollutants are compounds that enter the natural environment and cause harmful changes such as: B. impairing health, or causing other types of harm. Among them, insecticides, herbicides and fungicides are of great interest because they are widely used in agriculture. Pesticides are one of a wide range of organic micropollutants with ecological impacts. Other pollutants are also of general interest in environmental monitoring. For example, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are well-known anthropogenic pollutants resulting from incomplete combustion of organic materials. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are also pollutants of great interest due to their chemical resistance and persistence in the environment. Pesticides can enter the environment through their current use or by release/re-release from different environmental areas. , where they already exist as relics of past use.
There are two main types of substances causing pollution: 1. Persistent pollutants: Those pollutants which persist in the environment for a long time without changing their original form are called persistent pollutants. Examples include pesticides, nuclear waste, plastics, etc. 2. Non-persistent pollutants: These pollutants are unlike permanent pollutants and decompose easily. If this decomposition process is carried out by living organisms, then such pollutants are called biodegradable pollutants.
From another point of view, pollutants can be classified as follows: 1. Primary pollutants: Primary pollutants are those which persist in the same form in which they were introduced into the environment. b. DDT, Plastic 2. Secondary pollutants: Secondary pollutants are produced by the interaction of primary pollutants. B. Peroxyacyl nitrate (PAN) from the interaction of NOx with hydrocarbons. According to their presence in nature, 1. Quantitative pollutants: These substances are already present in the atmosphere, but when their concentration reaches a certain value above the limit value, they become pollutants. 2. Qualitative pollutants: These are pollutants produced by humans. B. Fungicides, herbicides etc. Furthermore, they are classified as man-made or natural pollutants and depending on the method of disposal, as biodegradable and non-biodegradable pollutants.
There are many different types of pollution, mostly caused by anthropogenic causes. Another cause of environmental pollution is globalization, which has gradually begun to change the face of the Earth with humanity’s constant need for natural resources. Although the quality of life has improved dramatically, other new problems have also emerged that are gradually affecting human health and the environment. Some of the well-known types of pollution include air, land, water and marine pollution. There are also other types such as noise, light, nuclear, thermal and visual pollution which are relatively new but important to understand. All types of pollution affect the environment.
1. Air Pollution 2. Water Pollution 3. Soil Pollution 4. Noise Pollution 5. Radioactive and Nuclear Pollution 6. Heat Pollution etc. 7. Light Pollution 8. Marine and Ocean Pollution
Air pollution occurs when there is a large amount of unwanted gases and particles in the air. This worsens the air quality and hence needs to be controlled and monitored. If left uncontrolled, it can cause illness, allergies or premature death in people. Generally, it refers to air pollution caused by smoke, gases (mainly carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide), suspended particles, particulates and other air pollutants. It is directly related to the greenhouse effect and global warming, which is mainly caused by carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
Effects of Air Pollution
Air pollution has direct and indirect effects and it affects our lives in different ways. Air pollutants include both point source and diffuse pollution. These pollutants have a negative impact on air quality and need to be reduced. Some of these effects/consequences are listed below:
Formation of photochemical smog: Smog is formed when pollutants such as hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides combine in the presence of sunlight. This creates a yellow-brown haze, especially in winter, which impairs visibility. It also contains harmful gases in the environment, which cause many respiratory diseases and allergies.
Ozone layer depletion: Ozone is known to absorb ultraviolet (UV) rays contained in solar radiation. The ozone layer protects us from the harmful effects of UV rays. However, hydrocarbons such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) destroy ozone molecules, which depletes the ozone layer. Ozone holes have been found in the atmosphere, through which ultraviolet rays can reach the Earth’s surface. The harmful effects of ultraviolet rays are evident in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, where the incidence of skin cancer is higher than in other parts of the world.
Formation of Aerosol: Aerosols are formed by the dispersion of solid or liquid substances in the atmosphere. Aerosols are formed from pollution particles such as carbon particles. When aerosols form a thick layer in the troposphere, they affect weather conditions by blocking solar radiation. Aerosols also accumulate on leaves, interfering with photosynthesis.
Cause And Source
Causes include the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and oil in vehicles, industries, and coal-fired power plants. Fossil fuels have been used in large quantities in one form or another for centuries. Burning of crops, waste and garbage also has similar harmful environmental effects. Although construction and building activities do not directly cause harmful gas emissions, they release large amounts of particulate matter and other harmful airborne particles that cause environmental pollution. The main causes are air pollutants and vehicle exhaust fumes, heavy metals, natural gases, chemical reactions, burning of fossil fuels, volatile organic compounds, radioactive radiation and nuclear accidents, emission of harmful gases during manufacturing of paints and plastics, etc.
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies including lakes, groundwater, seas, oceans, etc. Examples include waste water reduction. Formation of photochemical smog: When pollutants such as hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides combine in the presence of sunlight, smog is formed. It creates a yellow-brown haze, especially in winter, which reduces visibility. It also contains harmful gases in the environment, which cause many respiratory diseases and allergies.
Depletion of the ozone layer: Ozone is known to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation present in solar radiation. The ozone layer protects us from the harmful effects of UV radiation. However, hydrocarbons such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) destroy ozone molecules, leading to the destruction of the ozone layer. Ozone holes have been found in the atmosphere, through which UV radiation reaches the Earth’s surface. The harmful effects of UV rays are more pronounced in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, where the incidence of skin cancer is higher than in other parts of the world.
Formation of Aerosol: Aerosols are formed by the dispersion of solid or liquid substances in the atmosphere. Aerosols are formed by pollutant particles such as carbon particles. When aerosols form a thick layer in the troposphere, they affect weather conditions by blocking solar radiation. Aerosols also accumulate on leaves, interfering with photosynthesis. Causes and Sources Causes include the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and oil in vehicles, industries, and coal-fired power plants. Fossil fuels have been used in large quantities in one form or another for centuries. Burning of crops, waste materials and garbage also has harmful effects on the environment. Construction and manufacturing activities do not directly cause harmful gas emissions, but they release large amounts of particulate matter and other harmful airborne particles that cause environmental pollution.
The main causes are air pollutants and vehicle exhaust fumes, heavy metals, natural gases, chemical reactions, fossil fuel combustion, volatile organic compounds, radiation leakage and hazardous gas emissions from nuclear accidents, paint and plastic production, etc. The most obvious type of water pollution affects oceans, lakes, and rivers. It also causes the death of aquatic environment, due to which animals and fishes, crabs, birds, seagulls, dolphins etc. die. Increasing levels of pollutants and exploitation of existing natural resources have led to severe shortage and scarcity of clean water in many cities and regions. This has a direct impact on the quality of waste, as underground resources are also affected by these toxic pollutants.
Cause And Source
The main reason for polluted water is pollution caused by people’s daily life. The biggest form of pollution is the discharge of untreated industrial waste, toxic chemicals and waste water into lakes, ponds and rivers. Plastic materials like bottles, plastic bags and packaging also flow into water bodies, increasing pollution and negatively impacting aquatic life. Also, mixing hot water and waste water at high temperatures will cause sudden temperature fluctuations and temperature increases. Acid rain is also considered one of the factors of environmental pollution.
Effects Of Water
Pollution Water pollution has various effects on humans and animals. Due to the progress of pollution, there is severe shortage of water for general use and drinking water in big cities. Although most of the world is covered with water bodies, sources of fresh water are very limited. The most significant impacts include shortage of drinking water, entry of pollutants and metal compounds into the food chain, increase in water-borne diseases such as cholera, diarrhea and typhoid, and loss of aquatic organisms and plants.
Soil pollution occurs when soil contains large amounts of toxic chemicals, pollutants or contaminants. It poses high risks to plants, animals, humans and of course the soil, which directly affects crops and agriculture, significantly reducing crop yields. Soil pollution, also known as soil contamination, soil erosion, and soil erosion, alters the properties of soil. High or low pH, change in chemical composition, loss of nutrients, presence of chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides etc. are the main reasons. Removing the top layer of soil is also a form of pollution. Large-scale cutting of trees, also known as deforestation, is the main cause of soil pollution. The roots of trees that support the soil are destroyed over time by running water and strong winds. In mountainous areas, trees play an even more important role by providing strong support to large rocks. Landslides occur more frequently in hilly areas due to activities such as blasting, cutting of trees and construction work.
Causes And Sources Of Soil Pollution
Its main causes are anthropogenic activities such as industrial waste, agricultural waste, improper waste disposal, accidental oil spills and acid rain. In agricultural areas, this is a major problem due to the large use of man-made waste, which is rich in harmful chemicals. Some causes are the same as water pollution, such as acid rain and the discharge of untreated sewage and industrial waste. Furthermore, disposal of garbage, especially plastic materials such as plastic bags, is a major source of this type of pollution as they are not biodegradable. Burning of crops after harvesting also has a negative impact on the soil, reducing its fertility. Agricultural runoff and surface runoff also contribute to this.
Effects Of Soil Pollution
Impacts include effects on human health, effects on plant growth, reduced fertility, toxic dust, changes in soil structure, etc., which directly affect crop quality and quantity. Negative impact on crop production, crop failure and adverse effects on humans and animals due to poor quality food, contaminated food. It can also cause skin problems and pose health risks.
Noise pollution is unwanted and harmful noise that has adverse effects on human health and the environment. Since the industrial age, environmental problems have become increasingly serious. It is disruptive or excessive noise that can affect the activity and balance of human and animal life. It is one of the most common causes of hearing loss in the United States and the leading cause of hearing loss and deafness in children and adults. Construction, traffic, and everyday human activities all contribute to noise generation. We are exposed to high noise levels throughout the day, whether at home, work, school, hospital, parks, schools or other public places. Noise levels above 80-85 decibels are called noise pollution. These standards vary from country to country. Standards differ for different types of areas, such as residential, industrial and commercial.
Cause And Source
The sources of most outdoor noise around the world are machines and transportation systems, car engines, factory machinery noise, planes, and trains. It is produced by machinery, construction activities and playing music.
Effects Of Noise Pollution
Effects include tinnitus, hearing loss, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, high stress levels and other devastating effects on humans. It causes discomfort and impairs the mental and physical health of living beings. Regular exposure to high noise levels can cause serious health problems in humans and other living creatures. Stress can lead to diseases, loss of productivity and even death from heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, heart attack and heart failure. Long-term exposure to noise can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other health problems, especially if repeatedly exposed to noise.
Radioactive or nuclear contamination is another type of contamination, and it is caused by radioactive contamination (radioactive contamination). This is less common in everyday life, but is of particular concern if radioactive or radioactive materials are used. The risk of radioactive contamination increases near nuclear power plants, factories, large hospitals, etc., and can cause serious problems if radiation and exposure are not controlled. Generally, such hazardous materials are handled with great care in controlled environments, as extensive and long-lasting harm can occur if such materials leak or come into contact. Radioactive waste disposal is especially important because there is no way to dispose of it safely. Therefore improper disposal of radioactive waste can cause huge harm.
Light pollution: It is a broad term that refers to a number of problems caused by indiscriminate use of artificial light. Specific types of light pollution include light pollution, over-lighting, glare, light clutter, and skylights.
Thermal pollution: Refers to the sudden increase or decrease in temperature of oceans, lakes, rivers, seas and ponds due to human influence. A common cause of thermal pollution is the use of coolants by power plants and businesses.
Construction Waste: Waste generated from construction activities in the form of debris, smoke, air pollution from particulate matter, etc. Construction debris and other solid waste generated from demolition or new construction works.
Nuclear or radioactive contamination: This is caused by the accidental or intentional release of radioactive substances or high energy elements into air, water or soil due to excessive human activities. Nuclear contaminants and nuclear waste come from nuclear power plants, nuclear weapons, medical devices, and treatments.
Marine pollution: It is caused by pollutants and unwanted materials entering water bodies. This may be due to such materials entering the lower layers from various bodies of water or directly into the ocean. The main reasons are marine litter, chemical pollution, plastic pollution etc.
Pollution prevention is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or stops pollution at its source. Also known as “source reduction”, it is an approach to waste management that requires saving less than a gram. Reducing the amount of pollution generated means less waste that needs to be managed, treated or disposed of. Less pollution means less threat to public health and the environment.
The pollution prevention approach can be applied to all activities that can cause and create pollution, including the energy, agricultural, federal, consumer, and industrial sectors. Preventive measures are necessary to protect wetlands, groundwater sources and other important ecosystems, as pollution must be stopped before it occurs.
In the energy sector, preventing pollution can reduce environmental damage caused by the extraction, processing, transportation and combustion of fuels. Pollution prevention methods include:
improving energy efficiency; • Using environmentally friendly fuel sources.
In the agricultural sector, ways to prevent pollution include: • reducing water and chemical consumption; • Reducing the use of environmentally harmful pesticides or cultivating plant varieties with natural resistance to pests; and security of sensitive areas.
Examples of practices in the industrial sector include: modifying production processes to reduce waste using non-toxic or less toxic chemicals as cleaning agents, degreasers and other maintenance chemicals adopting water- and energy-saving measures. Reusing materials like barrels and pallets instead of throwing them in the trash
The following practices are common in homes and institutions: Using reusable water bottles instead of disposable bottles Turning off lights automatically when not in use Repairing leaky taps and hoses Using eco-friendly detergents Preventing pollution This reduces both financial costs (waste management and cleanup) and environmental costs (health problems and environmental damage). Pollution prevention protects the environment by preserving and protecting natural resources, as well as enhancing economic growth through more efficient production in industry and reducing the need for waste disposal by homes, businesses, and communities.
Environmental laws, rules and regulations have been enacted across the world. Environmental protection authorities, water authorities, environmental protection authorities, NGOs and departments have been established. These agencies or departments issue policies, strategies and laws to regulate pollution levels and control pollution. They also collect data on the most polluted places, hazardous waste dumps, changes in pollution levels, etc. Rules and regulations in the form of laws such as the Clean Air Act define acceptable levels and define penalties, remedies, and other requirements that must be followed. If necessary, such rules apply to individuals, businesses, industries, manufacturers, and even state-owned enterprises.
Millions of people around the world are affected by environmental pollution in some way or the other. Given the significant impact of various types of environmental pollution, not only developed countries, but everyone needs to pay attention to environmental pollution. Along with waste reduction and waste management, recycling is also becoming increasingly important. Alternative and renewable energy sources are considered, and environmental monitoring is emphasized. The most common forms of renewable energy are the use of solar and wind energy. Conservation of natural resources is a shared responsibility. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals also emphasize environmental protection. Policy makers in developing countries should design programs, set standards, and take measures to reduce the adverse health effects of pollution. Healthy people means human capital is the primary goal of any successful company or country. These socially beneficial efforts require careful adaptation of existing knowledge from other disciplines to take into account differences in the mix of contaminants, concentration levels, exposure patterns, and various underlying population characteristics.
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