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Essay on Pollution and Its Effects

The term pollution is ubiquitous these days, even among children. The fact that pollution is rising continuously has become so prevalent that almost everyone acknowledges it. In pollution, we mean a substance that has been introduced uninvited into something. Various pollutants are contaminating the earth's natural resources when we talk about pollution. These effects are mainly caused by human activities that harm the environment in a number of ways. As a result, it is vital that this problem is addressed immediately. We need to recognize the effects of pollution and prevent its harm to our earth, which means we need to prevent these devastating effects. Here, we will look at what pollution is, how it occurs, and what we can do about it.

The Effects of Pollution

It is impossible to imagine how much pollution affects one's quality of life. The process occurs in mysterious ways, sometimes unobservable to the naked eye. Despite its enigmatic nature, it is profoundly present in the surrounding environment. Natural gases are present in the air even though you may not see them. Similar to the pollutants that are polluting the air and increasing carbon dioxide levels, pollutants pose a great threat to humans. Global warming is a consequence of increasing levels of carbon dioxide.

Additionally, the water will be polluted due to industrial development, religious practices and other practices leading to a shortage of drinking water. The need for water is essential to our existence. A waste dump that ends up in the soil eventually becomes toxic because of the way it is disposed of. In the future, we will no longer have fertile soil to grow crops on if the rate of land pollution continues. We must take immediate steps to reduce the level of land pollution.

What are the Best Ways to Reduce Pollution?

It is important to take action as soon as possible to prevent or reduce pollution after learning of the harmful effects of pollution. Taking public transportation or carpooling reduces vehicle emissions, hence reducing air pollution. Aside from reducing air and noise pollution, avoiding firecrackers at festivals and celebrations may also reduce air pollution. Recycling is essential to reducing air pollution in general. It pollutes the oceans and land when used plastic ends up in them.

After using these utensils, be sure to reuse them as long as you can, rather than throw them away after using them. As well as encouraging everyone to plant more trees, which absorb harmful gases and clean the air, we need to encourage everyone to plant more trees. At a national level, the government should limit fertilizer use to ensure the nutrient content of the soil. Further, pollution of oceans and rivers must be dealt with by preventing industries from dumping their waste into them.

The bottom line is that all pollutant types are hazardous and have serious consequences. Whether it is a personal initiative or an industry-wide initiative, everyone must take steps to change. It is necessary to join forces now since solving this problem will require a collective effort. Additionally, such human actions are causing the deaths of innocent animals. We must all take a stand and speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves in order to protect this planet from pollution. 

Short Essay 

The pollution problem in the world today is one of the most disturbing. We will talk about the extent of these effects and their harmful effects in this short paper on pollution and its effects in English. In this essay on pollution and its effects, the author aims to eradicate pollution from the earth. In this essay on pollution and its causes, we will discuss our responsibilities as citizens. The next generation has to learn how to fight pollution with proper equipment while reducing waste. 

Planting trees and taking care of our environment will help us prevent pollution levels from rising. The oil spills in the sea can be checked, and industrial wastes dumping into the water can be stopped to prevent pollution of the marine environment. To combat pollution and how serious its effects can be, we should not only take steps but also teach our children to do the same. 

Types of Pollution

  Air Pollution

Water Pollution

   Soil Pollution

The following paragraph provides some information about the effects of pollution on the environment which can help us to take measures against it to protect life on earth for future generations. In order to eradicate pollution and make the world a greener place, we must all take these steps. 

FAQs on Pollution and Its Effects Essay

1. What are the impacts of Air Pollution?

Elevated levels of air contamination can cause an expanded danger of coronary failure, wheezing, hacking, and breathing issues, and bothering of the eyes, nose, and throat. Air contamination can likewise cause declining in existing heart issues, asthma, and other lung confusions. Like people, creatures can experience the ill effects of various medical conditions because of air contamination, including birth abandons, regenerative disappointment, and illnesses. Corrosive downpour contains significant levels of nitric and sulfuric acids that are made by oxides and sulfur oxides delivered into the air by the consumption of non-renewable energy sources.

2. What are the effects of Water Pollution?

The impacts of water contamination rely upon which synthetics are being unloaded where. Waterways that are close to urbanized zones will, in general, be vigorously dirtied by dumbing of trash and synthetic compounds, both lawfully and illicitly, by modern plants, wellbeing focuses, and people. By a long shot, the greatest outcome of water contamination is the demise of amphibian animals, which can upset the whole natural way of life. Poisons, for example, cadmium, mercury, and lead are eaten by little oceanic life forms that are then eaten by fish and shellfish, getting more thought with each progression up the natural pecking order and causing major issues in people and untamed life. 

3. What are the effects of pollution?

Humans are affected by pollution on a daily basis. The air we breathe and almost every form of water we drink is degraded by it. Environmental degradation contributes to illness.

4. What can be done to reduce pollution?

To reduce pollution, each of us must take action. They should plant more trees, and they should decompose their waste more mindfully. Furthermore, it is a good idea to recycle where possible and make the environment cleaner.

5. How does water pollution affect us?

Depending on the type of synthetics being dumped where water contamination impacts are different. Those waterways near urbanized zones will, in general, be heavily polluted by humans, modern plants, and wellbeing centers, as well as by trash dumps and synthetic compounds lawfully and illegally. Water contamination is one of the major causes of amphibian demise, which affects natural ecosystems in a profound way. As the natural pecking order advances, poisons like mercury, cadmium, and lead get more and more concentrated as they are eaten by marine life, causing major health problems for people and the environment.

6. What is the importance of pollution prevention?

In addition to protecting the environment by conserving and protecting natural resources, pollution prevention improves economic growth by spreading more efficient production among industries and by reducing waste management requirements for households, businesses, and communities.

Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. These harmful materials are called pollutants.

Biology, Ecology, Health, Earth Science, Geography

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Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment . These harmful materials are called pollutants . Pollutants can be natural, such as volcanic ash . They can also be created by human activity, such as trash or runoff produced by factories. Pollutants damage the quality of air, water, and land. Many things that are useful to people produce pollution. Cars spew pollutants from their exhaust pipes. Burning coal to create electricity pollutes the air. Industries and homes generate garbage and sewage that can pollute the land and water. Pesticides —chemical poisons used to kill weeds and insects— seep into waterways and harm wildlife . All living things—from one-celled microbes to blue whales—depend on Earth ’s supply of air and water. When these resources are polluted, all forms of life are threatened. Pollution is a global problem. Although urban areas are usually more polluted than the countryside, pollution can spread to remote places where no people live. For example, pesticides and other chemicals have been found in the Antarctic ice sheet . In the middle of the northern Pacific Ocean, a huge collection of microscopic plastic particles forms what is known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch . Air and water currents carry pollution. Ocean currents and migrating fish carry marine pollutants far and wide. Winds can pick up radioactive material accidentally released from a nuclear reactor and scatter it around the world. Smoke from a factory in one country drifts into another country. In the past, visitors to Big Bend National Park in the U.S. state of Texas could see 290 kilometers (180 miles) across the vast landscape . Now, coal-burning power plants in Texas and the neighboring state of Chihuahua, Mexico have spewed so much pollution into the air that visitors to Big Bend can sometimes see only 50 kilometers (30 miles). The three major types of pollution are air pollution , water pollution , and land pollution . Air Pollution Sometimes, air pollution is visible . A person can see dark smoke pour from the exhaust pipes of large trucks or factories, for example. More often, however, air pollution is invisible . Polluted air can be dangerous, even if the pollutants are invisible. It can make people’s eyes burn and make them have difficulty breathing. It can also increase the risk of lung cancer . Sometimes, air pollution kills quickly. In 1984, an accident at a pesticide plant in Bhopal, India, released a deadly gas into the air. At least 8,000 people died within days. Hundreds of thou sands more were permanently injured. Natural disasters can also cause air pollution to increase quickly. When volcanoes erupt , they eject volcanic ash and gases into the atmosphere . Volcanic ash can discolor the sky for months. After the eruption of the Indonesian volcano of Krakatoa in 1883, ash darkened the sky around the world. The dimmer sky caused fewer crops to be harvested as far away as Europe and North America. For years, meteorologists tracked what was known as the “equatorial smoke stream .” In fact, this smoke stream was a jet stream , a wind high in Earth’s atmosphere that Krakatoa’s air pollution made visible. Volcanic gases , such as sulfur dioxide , can kill nearby residents and make the soil infertile for years. Mount Vesuvius, a volcano in Italy, famously erupted in 79, killing hundreds of residents of the nearby towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Most victims of Vesuvius were not killed by lava or landslides caused by the eruption. They were choked, or asphyxiated , by deadly volcanic gases. In 1986, a toxic cloud developed over Lake Nyos, Cameroon. Lake Nyos sits in the crater of a volcano. Though the volcano did not erupt, it did eject volcanic gases into the lake. The heated gases passed through the water of the lake and collected as a cloud that descended the slopes of the volcano and into nearby valleys . As the toxic cloud moved across the landscape, it killed birds and other organisms in their natural habitat . This air pollution also killed thousands of cattle and as many as 1,700 people. Most air pollution is not natural, however. It comes from burning fossil fuels —coal, oil , and natural gas . When gasoline is burned to power cars and trucks, it produces carbon monoxide , a colorless, odorless gas. The gas is harmful in high concentrations , or amounts. City traffic produces highly concentrated carbon monoxide. Cars and factories produce other common pollutants, including nitrogen oxide , sulfur dioxide, and hydrocarbons . These chemicals react with sunlight to produce smog , a thick fog or haze of air pollution. The smog is so thick in Linfen, China, that people can seldom see the sun. Smog can be brown or grayish blue, depending on which pollutants are in it. Smog makes breathing difficult, especially for children and older adults. Some cities that suffer from extreme smog issue air pollution warnings. The government of Hong Kong, for example, will warn people not to go outside or engage in strenuous physical activity (such as running or swimming) when smog is very thick.

When air pollutants such as nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide mix with moisture, they change into acids . They then fall back to earth as acid rain . Wind often carries acid rain far from the pollution source. Pollutants produced by factories and power plants in Spain can fall as acid rain in Norway. Acid rain can kill all the trees in a forest . It can also devastate lakes, streams, and other waterways. When lakes become acidic, fish can’t survive . In Sweden, acid rain created thousands of “ dead lakes ,” where fish no longer live. Acid rain also wears away marble and other kinds of stone . It has erased the words on gravestones and damaged many historic buildings and monuments . The Taj Mahal , in Agra, India, was once gleaming white. Years of exposure to acid rain has left it pale. Governments have tried to prevent acid rain by limiting the amount of pollutants released into the air. In Europe and North America, they have had some success, but acid rain remains a major problem in the developing world , especially Asia. Greenhouse gases are another source of air pollution. Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane occur naturally in the atmosphere. In fact, they are necessary for life on Earth. They absorb sunlight reflected from Earth, preventing it from escaping into space. By trapping heat in the atmosphere, they keep Earth warm enough for people to live. This is called the greenhouse effect . But human activities such as burning fossil fuels and destroying forests have increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This has increased the greenhouse effect, and average temperatures across the globe are rising. The decade that began in the year 2000 was the warmest on record. This increase in worldwide average temperatures, caused in part by human activity, is called global warming . Global warming is causing ice sheets and glaciers to melt. The melting ice is causing sea levels to rise at a rate of two millimeters (0.09 inches) per year. The rising seas will eventually flood low-lying coastal regions . Entire nations, such as the islands of Maldives, are threatened by this climate change . Global warming also contributes to the phenomenon of ocean acidification . Ocean acidification is the process of ocean waters absorbing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Fewer organisms can survive in warmer, less salty waters. The ocean food web is threatened as plants and animals such as coral fail to adapt to more acidic oceans. Scientists have predicted that global warming will cause an increase in severe storms . It will also cause more droughts in some regions and more flooding in others. The change in average temperatures is already shrinking some habitats, the regions where plants and animals naturally live. Polar bears hunt seals from sea ice in the Arctic. The melting ice is forcing polar bears to travel farther to find food , and their numbers are shrinking. People and governments can respond quickly and effectively to reduce air pollution. Chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a dangerous form of air pollution that governments worked to reduce in the 1980s and 1990s. CFCs are found in gases that cool refrigerators, in foam products, and in aerosol cans . CFCs damage the ozone layer , a region in Earth’s upper atmosphere. The ozone layer protects Earth by absorbing much of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation . When people are exposed to more ultraviolet radiation, they are more likely to develop skin cancer, eye diseases, and other illnesses. In the 1980s, scientists noticed that the ozone layer over Antarctica was thinning. This is often called the “ ozone hole .” No one lives permanently in Antarctica. But Australia, the home of more than 22 million people, lies at the edge of the hole. In the 1990s, the Australian government began an effort to warn people of the dangers of too much sun. Many countries, including the United States, now severely limit the production of CFCs. Water Pollution Some polluted water looks muddy, smells bad, and has garbage floating in it. Some polluted water looks clean, but is filled with harmful chemicals you can’t see or smell. Polluted water is unsafe for drinking and swimming. Some people who drink polluted water are exposed to hazardous chemicals that may make them sick years later. Others consume bacteria and other tiny aquatic organisms that cause disease. The United Nations estimates that 4,000 children die every day from drinking dirty water. Sometimes, polluted water harms people indirectly. They get sick because the fish that live in polluted water are unsafe to eat. They have too many pollutants in their flesh. There are some natural sources of water pollution. Oil and natural gas, for example, can leak into oceans and lakes from natural underground sources. These sites are called petroleum seeps . The world’s largest petroleum seep is the Coal Oil Point Seep, off the coast of the U.S. state of California. The Coal Oil Point Seep releases so much oil that tar balls wash up on nearby beaches . Tar balls are small, sticky pieces of pollution that eventually decompose in the ocean.

Human activity also contributes to water pollution. Chemicals and oils from factories are sometimes dumped or seep into waterways. These chemicals are called runoff. Chemicals in runoff can create a toxic environment for aquatic life. Runoff can also help create a fertile environment for cyanobacteria , also called blue-green algae . Cyanobacteria reproduce rapidly, creating a harmful algal bloom (HAB) . Harmful algal blooms prevent organisms such as plants and fish from living in the ocean. They are associated with “ dead zones ” in the world’s lakes and rivers, places where little life exists below surface water. Mining and drilling can also contribute to water pollution. Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a major contributor to pollution of rivers and streams near coal mines . Acid helps miners remove coal from the surrounding rocks . The acid is washed into streams and rivers, where it reacts with rocks and sand. It releases chemical sulfur from the rocks and sand, creating a river rich in sulfuric acid . Sulfuric acid is toxic to plants, fish, and other aquatic organisms. Sulfuric acid is also toxic to people, making rivers polluted by AMD dangerous sources of water for drinking and hygiene . Oil spills are another source of water pollution. In April 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded in the Gulf of Mexico, causing oil to gush from the ocean floor. In the following months, hundreds of millions of gallons of oil spewed into the gulf waters. The spill produced large plumes of oil under the sea and an oil slick on the surface as large as 24,000 square kilometers (9,100 square miles). The oil slick coated wetlands in the U.S. states of Louisiana and Mississippi, killing marsh plants and aquatic organisms such as crabs and fish. Birds, such as pelicans , became coated in oil and were unable to fly or access food. More than two million animals died as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Buried chemical waste can also pollute water supplies. For many years, people disposed of chemical wastes carelessly, not realizing its dangers. In the 1970s, people living in the Love Canal area in Niagara Falls, New York, suffered from extremely high rates of cancer and birth defects . It was discovered that a chemical waste dump had poisoned the area’s water. In 1978, 800 families living in Love Canal had to a bandon their homes. If not disposed of properly, radioactive waste from nuclear power plants can escape into the environment. Radioactive waste can harm living things and pollute the water. Sewage that has not been properly treated is a common source of water pollution. Many cities around the world have poor sewage systems and sewage treatment plants. Delhi, the capital of India, is home to more than 21 million people. More than half the sewage and other waste produced in the city are dumped into the Yamuna River. This pollution makes the river dangerous to use as a source of water for drinking or hygiene. It also reduces the river’s fishery , resulting in less food for the local community. A major source of water pollution is fertilizer used in agriculture . Fertilizer is material added to soil to make plants grow larger and faster. Fertilizers usually contain large amounts of the elements nitrogen and phosphorus , which help plants grow. Rainwater washes fertilizer into streams and lakes. There, the nitrogen and phosphorus cause cyanobacteria to form harmful algal blooms. Rain washes other pollutants into streams and lakes. It picks up animal waste from cattle ranches. Cars drip oil onto the street, and rain carries it into storm drains , which lead to waterways such as rivers and seas. Rain sometimes washes chemical pesticides off of plants and into streams. Pesticides can also seep into groundwater , the water beneath the surface of the Earth. Heat can pollute water. Power plants, for example, produce a huge amount of heat. Power plants are often located on rivers so they can use the water as a coolant . Cool water circulates through the plant, absorbing heat. The heated water is then returned to the river. Aquatic creatures are sensitive to changes in temperature. Some fish, for example, can only live in cold water. Warmer river temperatures prevent fish eggs from hatching. Warmer river water also contributes to harmful algal blooms. Another type of water pollution is simple garbage. The Citarum River in Indonesia, for example, has so much garbage floating in it that you cannot see the water. Floating trash makes the river difficult to fish in. Aquatic animals such as fish and turtles mistake trash, such as plastic bags, for food. Plastic bags and twine can kill many ocean creatures. Chemical pollutants in trash can also pollute the water, making it toxic for fish and people who use the river as a source of drinking water. The fish that are caught in a polluted river often have high levels of chemical toxins in their flesh. People absorb these toxins as they eat the fish. Garbage also fouls the ocean. Many plastic bottles and other pieces of trash are thrown overboard from boats. The wind blows trash out to sea. Ocean currents carry plastics and other floating trash to certain places on the globe, where it cannot escape. The largest of these areas, called the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, is in a remote part of the Pacific Ocean. According to some estimates, this garbage patch is the size of Texas. The trash is a threat to fish and seabirds, which mistake the plastic for food. Many of the plastics are covered with chemical pollutants. Land Pollution Many of the same pollutants that foul the water also harm the land. Mining sometimes leaves the soil contaminated with dangerous chemicals. Pesticides and fertilizers from agricultural fields are blown by the wind. They can harm plants, animals, and sometimes people. Some fruits and vegetables absorb the pesticides that help them grow. When people consume the fruits and vegetables, the pesticides enter their bodies. Some pesticides can cause cancer and other diseases. A pesticide called DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) was once commonly used to kill insects, especially mosquitoes. In many parts of the world, mosquitoes carry a disease called malaria , which kills a million people every year. Swiss chemist Paul Hermann Muller was awarded the Nobel Prize for his understanding of how DDT can control insects and other pests. DDT is responsible for reducing malaria in places such as Taiwan and Sri Lanka. In 1962, American biologist Rachel Carson wrote a book called Silent Spring , which discussed the dangers of DDT. She argued that it could contribute to cancer in humans. She also explained how it was destroying bird eggs, which caused the number of bald eagles, brown pelicans, and ospreys to drop. In 1972, the United States banned the use of DDT. Many other countries also banned it. But DDT didn’t disappear entirely. Today, many governments support the use of DDT because it remains the most effective way to combat malaria. Trash is another form of land pollution. Around the world, paper, cans, glass jars, plastic products, and junked cars and appliances mar the landscape. Litter makes it difficult for plants and other producers in the food web to create nutrients . Animals can die if they mistakenly eat plastic. Garbage often contains dangerous pollutants such as oils, chemicals, and ink. These pollutants can leech into the soil and harm plants, animals, and people. Inefficient garbage collection systems contribute to land pollution. Often, the garbage is picked up and brought to a dump, or landfill . Garbage is buried in landfills. Sometimes, communities produce so much garbage that their landfills are filling up. They are running out of places to dump their trash. A massive landfill near Quezon City, Philippines, was the site of a land pollution tragedy in 2000. Hundreds of people lived on the slopes of the Quezon City landfill. These people made their living from recycling and selling items found in the landfill. However, the landfill was not secure. Heavy rains caused a trash landslide, killing 218 people. Sometimes, landfills are not completely sealed off from the land around them. Pollutants from the landfill leak into the earth in which they are buried. Plants that grow in the earth may be contaminated, and the herbivores that eat the plants also become contaminated. So do the predators that consume the herbivores. This process, where a chemical builds up in each level of the food web, is called bioaccumulation . Pollutants leaked from landfills also leak into local groundwater supplies. There, the aquatic food web (from microscopic algae to fish to predators such as sharks or eagles) can suffer from bioaccumulation of toxic chemicals. Some communities do not have adequate garbage collection systems, and trash lines the side of roads. In other places, garbage washes up on beaches. Kamilo Beach, in the U.S. state of Hawai'i, is littered with plastic bags and bottles carried in by the tide . The trash is dangerous to ocean life and reduces economic activity in the area. Tourism is Hawai'i’s largest industry . Polluted beaches discourage tourists from investing in the area’s hotels, restaurants, and recreational activities. Some cities incinerate , or burn, their garbage. Incinerating trash gets rid of it, but it can release dangerous heavy metals and chemicals into the air. So while trash incinerators can help with the problem of land pollution, they sometimes add to the problem of air pollution. Reducing Pollution Around the world, people and governments are making efforts to combat pollution. Recycling, for instance, is becoming more common. In recycling, trash is processed so its useful materials can be used again. Glass, aluminum cans, and many types of plastic can be melted and reused . Paper can be broken down and turned into new paper. Recycling reduces the amount of garbage that ends up in landfills, incinerators, and waterways. Austria and Switzerland have the highest recycling rates. These nations recycle between 50 and 60 percent of their garbage. The United States recycles about 30 percent of its garbage. Governments can combat pollution by passing laws that limit the amount and types of chemicals factories and agribusinesses are allowed to use. The smoke from coal-burning power plants can be filtered. People and businesses that illegally dump pollutants into the land, water, and air can be fined for millions of dollars. Some government programs, such as the Superfund program in the United States, can force polluters to clean up the sites they polluted. International agreements can also reduce pollution. The Kyoto Protocol , a United Nations agreement to limit the emission of greenhouse gases, has been signed by 191 countries. The United States, the world’s second-largest producer of greenhouse gases, did not sign the agreement. Other countries, such as China, the world’s largest producer of greenhouse gases, have not met their goals. Still, many gains have been made. In 1969, the Cuyahoga River, in the U.S. state of Ohio, was so clogged with oil and trash that it caught on fire. The fire helped spur the Clean Water Act of 1972. This law limited what pollutants could be released into water and set standards for how clean water should be. Today, the Cuyahoga River is much cleaner. Fish have returned to regions of the river where they once could not survive. But even as some rivers are becoming cleaner, others are becoming more polluted. As countries around the world become wealthier, some forms of pollution increase. Countries with growing economies usually need more power plants, which produce more pollutants. Reducing pollution requires environmental, political, and economic leadership. Developed nations must work to reduce and recycle their materials, while developing nations must work to strengthen their economies without destroying the environment. Developed and developing countries must work together toward the common goal of protecting the environment for future use.

How Long Does It Last? Different materials decompose at different rates. How long does it take for these common types of trash to break down?

• Paper: 2-4 weeks
• Orange peel: 6 months
• Milk carton: 5 years
• Plastic bag: 15 years
• Tin can: 100 years
• Plastic bottle: 450 years
• Glass bottle: 500 years
• Styrofoam: Never

Indoor Air Pollution The air inside your house can be polluted. Air and carpet cleaners, insect sprays, and cigarettes are all sources of indoor air pollution.

Light Pollution Light pollution is the excess amount of light in the night sky. Light pollution, also called photopollution, is almost always found in urban areas. Light pollution can disrupt ecosystems by confusing the distinction between night and day. Nocturnal animals, those that are active at night, may venture out during the day, while diurnal animals, which are active during daylight hours, may remain active well into the night. Feeding and sleep patterns may be confused. Light pollution also indicates an excess use of energy. The dark-sky movement is a campaign by people to reduce light pollution. This would reduce energy use, allow ecosystems to function more normally, and allow scientists and stargazers to observe the atmosphere.

Noise Pollution Noise pollution is the constant presence of loud, disruptive noises in an area. Usually, noise pollution is caused by construction or nearby transportation facilities, such as airports. Noise pollution is unpleasant, and can be dangerous. Some songbirds, such as robins, are unable to communicate or find food in the presence of heavy noise pollution. The sound waves produced by some noise pollutants can disrupt the sonar used by marine animals to communicate or locate food.

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Essay on Environmental Pollution

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Essay on Environmental Pollution in 150-200 words

Essay on environmental pollution in 250-300 words, essay on environmental pollution in 500-1000 words.

Environmental pollution is the contamination of the natural environment by harmful substances, resulting in adverse effects on living organisms and ecosystems. It encompasses air, water, and soil pollution caused by human activities such as industrialization, transportation, and waste disposal.

Pollution poses severe threats to human health and the environment. It leads to respiratory problems, waterborne diseases, and ecosystem disruptions. Air pollution affects air quality, causing respiratory illnesses and contributing to climate change. Water pollution degrades water sources, impacting aquatic life and jeopardizing human access to clean drinking water. Soil pollution affects agriculture and food safety.

Addressing environmental pollution requires collective action. It involves adopting sustainable practices, promoting renewable energy sources, and implementing strict regulations on industrial emissions and waste management. Awareness campaigns and education about environmental conservation are vital to inspire behavioral changes.

Efforts to reduce pollution can help create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations. By prioritizing pollution control and embracing eco-friendly practices, we can protect human health, preserve biodiversity, and safeguard the planet’s natural resources.

Environmental pollution refers to the contamination of the natural environment by various pollutants, resulting in harmful effects on living organisms and ecosystems. It is a pressing global issue that poses significant threats to the health and well-being of both humans and the planet.

Various forms of pollution contribute to environmental degradation. Air pollution occurs when harmful gases and particles are released into the atmosphere from industrial activities, transportation, and the burning of fossil fuels. Water pollution occurs when pollutants such as chemicals, sewage, and waste are discharged into rivers, lakes, and oceans, endangering aquatic life and contaminating drinking water sources. Soil pollution occurs when harmful substances like pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial waste contaminate the soil, affecting plant growth and the food chain.

The consequences of environmental pollution are far-reaching. It leads to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues in humans. It also disrupts ecosystems, causing the decline of plant and animal species, and damaging habitats. Pollution affects the quality of air, water, and soil, posing a threat to biodiversity and the overall balance of nature.

Addressing environmental pollution requires collective efforts from individuals, governments, and organizations. Sustainable practices such as reducing emissions, conserving resources, recycling, and using eco-friendly technologies are crucial in mitigating pollution. Strict regulations and policies need to be implemented to control industrial emissions and ensure proper waste management. Awareness campaigns and education on the importance of environmental conservation can inspire individuals to make conscious choices and adopt environmentally-friendly lifestyles.

In conclusion, environmental pollution poses a significant threat to our planet and its inhabitants. It is imperative that we take immediate and proactive measures to reduce pollution levels and preserve the environment for future generations. By adopting sustainable practices and promoting environmental awareness, we can work towards creating a cleaner and healthier planet for all.

Title: Environmental Pollution – A Global Crisis in Need of Urgent Action

Introduction :

Environmental pollution is a pressing global issue that threatens the health and well-being of both humans and the planet. It refers to the introduction of harmful substances or pollutants into the natural environment, resulting in adverse effects on living organisms and ecosystems. Pollution can take various forms, including air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution. Each of these forms poses unique challenges and impacts different aspects of the environment. Addressing environmental pollution is crucial to protect human health, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the sustainability of our planet.

Air Pollution

Air pollution is one of the most significant forms of environmental pollution. It occurs when harmful gases, particles, and chemicals are released into the atmosphere, primarily as a result of industrial activities, transportation, and the burning of fossil fuels. The main pollutants include carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Air pollution poses severe health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. It can cause respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and even premature death. Additionally, air pollution contributes to climate change, global warming, and the depletion of the ozone layer.

Water Pollution

Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies, including rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater sources. It occurs when pollutants such as chemicals, sewage, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff are discharged into waterways without adequate treatment. Water pollution not only affects aquatic life but also endangers human health, as polluted water is often used for drinking, irrigation, and recreational activities.

The consequences of water pollution are far-reaching. It leads to the destruction of aquatic ecosystems, the loss of biodiversity, and the contamination of food sources. Waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid, are prevalent in areas with contaminated water supplies. Moreover, the pollution of oceans and seas poses a threat to marine life and can cause widespread ecological damage.

Soil Pollution

Soil pollution occurs when the soil is contaminated by toxic substances, including heavy metals, pesticides, chemicals, and industrial waste. It can result from improper waste disposal, industrial activities, agricultural practices, and mining operations. Soil pollution not only affects plant growth and agricultural productivity but also poses risks to human health through the ingestion of contaminated food.

The impact of soil pollution extends beyond the immediate area of contamination. It can lead to the loss of fertile land, soil erosion, and the disruption of ecosystems. The accumulation of pollutants in the soil can enter the food chain, affecting the quality and safety of agricultural products. Long-term exposure to contaminated soil can lead to various health issues, including cancers, respiratory problems, and neurological disorders.

Noise Pollution

Noise pollution refers to excessive or unwanted noise that disrupts the environment and causes discomfort. It can arise from various sources, including transportation, industrial activities, construction sites, and urbanization. Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can have detrimental effects on human health, including hearing loss, stress, sleep disturbances, and impaired cognitive function.

Effects on Human Health

Environmental pollution poses significant risks to human health. The inhalation of air pollutants can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Waterborne diseases caused by contaminated water sources can result in gastrointestinal issues, skin infections, and even death. Exposure to soil pollution can lead to various health problems, including organ damage, developmental disorders, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, noise pollution can have detrimental effects on mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders.

Impact on Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Environmental pollution also has devastating effects on biodiversity and ecosystems. Air pollution harms plant and animal life disrupts ecosystems, and contributes to the loss of biodiversity. Water pollution affects aquatic habitats, leading to the decline of fish populations, the destruction of coral reefs, and the loss of other marine species. Soil pollution impairs soil fertility and affects the growth and survival of plants, which are the foundation of terrestrial ecosystems. The contamination of land and water by pollutants disrupts natural processes, jeopardizing the delicate balance of ecosystems and leading to ecological imbalances.

Solutions and Mitigation Strategies

Addressing environmental pollution requires a multi-faceted approach involving individuals, communities, governments, and international organizations. Some key solutions and mitigation strategies include:

• Transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources to reduce air pollution and combat climate change.
• Implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions and promoting sustainable industrial practices.
• Encouraging sustainable agricultural practices that minimize the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers to reduce soil pollution.
• Improving waste management systems, including recycling and proper disposal of hazardous waste.
• Promoting water conservation and implementing effective wastewater treatment methods to reduce water pollution.
• Raising awareness and educating communities about the importance of environmental conservation and responsible behavior.
• Investing in research and technological innovations that support sustainable development and pollution control.

Conclusion :

Environmental pollution is a global crisis that demands immediate and collective action. The consequences of pollution on human health, biodiversity, and ecosystems are severe and far-reaching. By adopting sustainable practices and implementing effective pollution control measures, we can mitigate the impacts of environmental pollution. It requires the commitment and collaboration of individuals, communities, governments, and international entities to address this pressing issue.

Through a combination of policy interventions, technological advancements, and behavioral changes, we can create a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations. It is essential to prioritize sustainable practices, reduce emissions, conserve resources, and promote responsible consumption and production patterns.

Ultimately, the fight against environmental pollution requires a global effort to protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future. By working together, we can preserve the beauty of our natural world, safeguard human health, and create a harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment. It is our collective responsibility to take action today for a cleaner and greener tomorrow.

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Essay on Environmental Pollution for Students and Children

500+ words essay on environmental pollution.

Essay on Environmental Pollution – Environment is the surroundings in which we live. But the contamination of our environment by pollutants is environmental pollution. The current stage of the earth that we are seeing is the cause of centuries of exploitation of earth and its resources.

Moreover, the earth cannot restore its balance because of environmental pollution . The human force has created and destroyed life on earth. Human plays a vital role in the degradation of the environment.

Effect of pollution on the health

The environmental pollution, directly and indirectly, affects the lives of humans and other species. These living beings co-existed on the earth with human from centuries.

Effect on Air

Carbon and dust particles string up with the air in the form of smog, damaging respiratory system , haze, and smoke. These are caused by the emission of industrial and manufacturing units by burning of fossil fuels, vehicle combustion of carbon fumes.

Moreover, these factors affect the immune system of birds which become a carrier of viruses and infections.

Besides, it also affects the body system and body organs.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Effects on Land, Soil, and Food

Human’s organic and chemical both waste harm the land and soil with its decomposition. Also, it introduces some chemical in the soil and water. Land and soil pollution mainly caused by the use of pesticides, fertilizers , soil erosion, and crop residues.

Effect on Water

Water gets contaminated easily with any pollutant whether it is human waste or chemical discharge from factories. Also, we use this water for irrigation of crops and drinking. But, because of infection they become contaminated too. Besides, an animal dies because they drink this same contaminated water.

Moreover, around 80% of pollutants of land such as chemical, industrial and agricultural waste end up in the water bodies.

Besides, these water bodies ultimately connect to the sea which means it indirectly pollutes the biodiversity of the sea.

Effect on Food

Because of contaminated soil and water, the crop or agricultural produce also get toxic. Furthermore, this contaminated food effect our health and organs. From the beginning of their life, these crops are laced with chemical components that reach a mass level until the time of harvest.

Effect on Climate

Climate change is also a cause of environmental pollution. Also, it affects the physical and biological components of the ecosystem.

Moreover, ozone depletion, greenhouse gases, global warming all these climate changes are a cause of environmental pollution.

Furthermore, some unstable climate changes are earthquakes, famine, smog, carbon particles, shallow rain or snow, thunderstorms, volcanic eruption, and avalanches are all because of climate change that happens all because of environmental pollution.

In conclusion, man has exploited the wealth of nature at the cost of his and environments health. Also, the effect that is now emerging rapidly is all because of the activities of humans for hundreds or thousands of years.

Above all, if we wish to survive and continue our life on earth then we have to take measures. These measures will help is securing our as well as our next generation future.

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Air Pollution — Air Pollution: Causes, Effects, And Solutions

Air Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

• Categories: Air Pollution Environmental Issues Pollution

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Words: 1158 |

Published: Feb 8, 2022

Words: 1158 | Pages: 2 | 6 min read

Table of contents

Causes and effects of air pollution, possible solutions to the problem of air pollution.

This essay explores the critical issue of air pollution, emphasizing human activities as the primary contributors, including fossil fuel combustion, industrial emissions, and transportation. It discusses the harmful effects of air pollution on human health, the environment, and global ecosystems, highlighting the urgency of addressing this global crisis. Offering practical solutions, such as adopting renewable energy sources and implementing cleaner technologies, the essay serves as a problem and solution essay example detailed , advocating for collective action to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution and protect the planet for future generations.

Works Cited

• Begum, B. A., & Hill, J. A. (2019). Air Pollution and Public Health: A Primer. In Air Pollution and Health (pp. 3-22). Elsevier.
• Bhaskar, A., & Upadhyay, R. (2021). Air Pollution: Causes, Impacts and Control Measures. In Environmental Pollution and Control Measures (pp. 29-52). Springer.
• Chakraborty, S., & Pervez, S. (2019). Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health and Environment: An Overview. In Environmental Impact of Chemical Pollution (pp. 3-24). Elsevier.
• Dockery, D. W., & Pope III, C. A. (2020). Air Pollution and Health. In Air Pollution and Health (pp. 23-35). Elsevier.
• Garg, A., Martin, R. V., & Crounse, J. D. (2021). Air Pollution and Its Effects on Climate and Health. In Climate and Air Pollution (pp. 1-21). Springer.
• Hidy, G. M., & Pennell, W. T. (2020). Air Pollution: Chemicals and Particles in Ambient Air and Their Health Effects. In Encyclopedia of Environmental Health (pp. 22-31). Elsevier.
• Kampa, M., & Castanas, E. (2020). Human Health Effects of Air Pollution. Environmental Pollution, 151, 362-367.
• Lelieveld, J., Evans, J. S., Fnais, M., Giannadaki, D., & Pozzer, A. (2015). The Contribution of Outdoor Air Pollution Sources to Premature Mortality on a Global Scale. Nature, 525(7569), 367-371.
• Pruss-Ustun, A., Wolf, J., Corvalan, C., Bos, R., & Neira, M. (2016). Preventing Disease through Healthy Environments: A Global Assessment of the Burden of Disease from Environmental Risks. World Health Organization.
• World Health Organization. (2018). Ambient Air Pollution: A Global Assessment of Exposure and Burden of Disease. World Health Organization.

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• Essay On Air Pollution 200 Words 500 Words

Essay on Air Pollution

Essay on air pollution is a crucial topic for students from an academic perspective. Moreover, an essay is one of the most effective ways to educate students about the plight of nature and the repercussions of human activities. Creating awareness for future generations is important if we have to undo decades of ignorance and neglect.

Furthermore, air pollution essay helps students to realize the gravity of the scenario and enable them to take action. Some as simple as using public transport or even carpooling will help reduce a significant amount of air pollution. Read on to discover how to write an engaging essay on air pollution.

Essay on Air Pollution – Important Points to Note

Please consider adopting the following points when writing an essay on air pollution. These tips are also helpful for other essay topics as well:

• Always begin with an introductory paragraph about the topic, preferably detailing its origin.
• Unless the topic is technical, try to avoid jargons.
• Present content in bulleted points wherever possible
• Insert factual data, such as important dates, places or name wherever possible.
• Avoid writing the content in a large monotonous block of text. Remember to break up the content into digestible chunks
• Always conclude the essay with a closing paragraph.

Essay on Air Pollution – Sample 1 (200 Words)

Air pollution is a serious issue and a cause for major concern in today’s world. A report published in 2014  by the World Health Organisation states that 4.21 million individuals died prematurely in 2012 as a result of air pollution. Air pollution existed much before humans, in the form of volcanic eruptions and forest fires. However, it became much more prevalent after the Industrial Revolution.

Rapid industrial growth, unregulated emissions and a host of other issues significantly contributed to the rise in air pollution. In some cases, the severity of air pollution reached an extent where government intervention was necessary. The Great Smog of London, 1952, was an extreme case of air pollution where visibility was severely hampered. It also caused a host of illnesses and the consequent deaths of countless civilians. In November 2017, the levels of air pollution in Delhi were ten times above the safe limits. For reference, the healthy air quality index is between 0 to 50, but during that particular time period, the air quality index hit 500+. This event is now called the Great Smog of Delhi.

An air quality index of 500 and above indicates that the air is heavily polluted and will cause irreversible lung damage and a host of other illnesses to everyone who is exposed to it. Therefore, to avoid such situations in the future, relevant actions must be implemented.

Essay on Air Pollution – Sample 2 (500 Words)

Air pollution may seem like the result of anthropological activities, however, it has been around even before humans evolved. Places which are naturally arid and have minimal vegetation are prone to dust storms. When this particulate matter is added to the air, it can cause health issues in animals exposed to the dust storms.

Furthermore, active volcanoes pump extremely large amounts of toxic plumes and particulate matter into the atmosphere. Wildfires also pump large amounts of carbon monoxide into the atmosphere and hamper photosynthesis for plants. Even animals, especially ruminants such as cows contribute to global warming by producing large quantities of methane, a greenhouse gas.

However, air pollution was never a major concern until the industrial revolution. Industries grew rapidly, untreated emissions were pumped into the atmosphere, and the rise of automobiles significantly contributed to air pollution. Such activities continued without any restrictions until they started to cause a wide range of repercussions.

In humans, air polluted with contaminants can cause a wide array of illnesses ranging from asthma and bronchitis the various forms of cancer. Air pollution is not only present outdoors; interior air pollution is also a great concern. Recent research has actually found credible evidence that room fresheners have the many compounds within them, some of which are classified carcinogens. This means some of those compounds present in the aerosol has the potential to cause some forms of cancer. Other sources of air pollution can include gases such as carbon monoxide and radon.

Radon, in particular, is quite alarming. It is an odourless, colourless gas that occurs naturally. It is found in the soil as Uranium, which breaks down and eventually turns into radon gas. Radon has limited repercussions on health if exposed to low concentrations, however, when this gas gets trapped indoor, the higher levels of concentration can have wreak havoc or ultimately be lethal. Radon is also reported to be released from building materials such as granite. Exposure to radon causes no immediate health effects, but long term exposure has the potential to cause lung cancer.

Air pollution not only affects the lungs but the central nervous system too. It has been linked to a lot of diseases such as schizophrenia and autism. A study also implied that it can cause short-term memory losses or distortion of memory.

Historically, air pollution has caused many crises with the worst ever being the Bhopal Disaster in 1984. Fatalities were estimated at 3,800, with at least 600,000 injured. Next in severity was the Great Smog of 1952 which formed over London, killing an estimated 4,000 civilians over the course of four days.

Though measures have been taken to reduce the effects of air pollution, a lot of irreversible damage has been done. For instance, the effects of global warming have drastically increased; this is very apparent with the rise in sea levels and melting glaciers. If the ice caps continue to melt, then we will have to face drastic repercussions. Scientists have proposed a hypothetical scenario where the greenhouse effect becomes “uncontrolled.” Here, greenhouse gases build up and temperatures continue to rise steeply. Oceans will start to evaporate, adding more water vapour into the earth’s atmosphere. This intensifies the effect, reaching a point where temperatures are sufficiently high for rocks start sublimating. Though this scenario is hypothetical, some speculate that this phenomenon already occurred on Venus. The supporters of this theory back this up by claiming Venus has an atmosphere composed primarily of carbon dioxide. The theory also explains why Venus has an extremely high surface temperature of 462 degrees Celcius; which is in fact, the hottest planet in the solar system.

Hence, we need to reduce our impact on the planet and make a conscious effort to reduce air pollution. Explore more essay topics or other fascinating concepts by registering at BYJU’S

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History of pollution

Pollution control.

What is pollution?

Does pollution cause climate change, how can we reduce pollution.

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Pollution occurs when an amount of any substance or any form of energy is put into the environment at a rate faster than it can be dispersed or safely stored. The term pollution can refer to both artificial and natural materials that are created, consumed, and discarded in an unsustainable manner.

What kinds of pollution are there?

Air pollution , water pollution , and land pollution are three major forms of environmental pollution. Pollution can also refer to excessive human activity, such as light and noise pollution , or to specific pollutants such as plastic or radioactive material. Learn more in this infographic.

Air pollution is the main cause of climate change . Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and mass deforestation lead to the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere , which traps heat inside the atmosphere through a process called the greenhouse effect . This impacts climate patterns and sea levels around the world.

Pollution can be reduced through processes such as recycling and the proper treatment of water and toxic waste . The reduction of corporate fossil fuel extraction is another way to counter air pollution . According to the Carbon Majors Report prepared by the Carbon Disclosure Project in 2017, more than 70 percent of greenhouse gas emissions comes from only 100 companies.

How many people die annually from pollution?

Air pollution is estimated to kill 7 million people every year. Radioactive and toxic waste in water can cause many diseases, including fatal conditions such as typhoid fever and cholera . Consumption of contaminated water causes approximately 485,000 deaths every year.

pollution , the addition of any substance ( solid , liquid , or gas ) or any form of energy (such as heat , sound, or radioactivity ) to the environment at a rate faster than it can be dispersed, diluted, decomposed, recycled, or stored in some harmless form. The major kinds of pollution, usually classified by environment, are air pollution , water pollution , and land pollution . Modern society is also concerned about specific types of pollutants, such as noise pollution , light pollution , and plastic pollution . Pollution of all kinds can have negative effects on the environment and wildlife and often impacts human health and well-being.

Although environmental pollution can be caused by natural events such as forest fires and active volcanoes , use of the word pollution generally implies that the contaminants have an anthropogenic source—that is, a source created by human activities. Pollution has accompanied humankind ever since groups of people first congregated and remained for a long time in any one place. Indeed, ancient human settlements are frequently recognized by their wastes— shell mounds and rubble heaps, for instance. Pollution was not a serious problem as long as there was enough space available for each individual or group. However, with the establishment of permanent settlements by great numbers of people, pollution became a problem, and it has remained one ever since.

Cities of ancient times were often noxious places, fouled by human wastes and debris. Beginning about 1000 ce , the use of coal for fuel caused considerable air pollution, and the conversion of coal to coke for iron smelting beginning in the 17th century exacerbated the problem. In Europe, from the Middle Ages well into the early modern era, unsanitary urban conditions favoured the outbreak of population-decimating epidemics of disease, from plague to cholera and typhoid fever . Through the 19th century, water and air pollution and the accumulation of solid wastes were largely problems of congested urban areas. But, with the rapid spread of industrialization and the growth of the human population to unprecedented levels, pollution became a universal problem.

By the middle of the 20th century, an awareness of the need to protect air, water, and land environments from pollution had developed among the general public. In particular, the publication in 1962 of Rachel Carson ’s book Silent Spring focused attention on environmental damage caused by improper use of pesticides such as DDT and other persistent chemicals that accumulate in the food chain and disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems on a wide scale. In response, major pieces of environmental legislation, such as the Clean Air Act (1970) and the Clean Water Act (1972; United States), were passed in many countries to control and mitigate environmental pollution.

Giving voice to the growing conviction of most of the scientific community about the reality of anthropogenic global warming , the  Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change  (IPCC) was formed in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) to help address greenhouse gas emissions. An IPCC special report produced in 2018 noted that human beings and human activities have been responsible for a worldwide average temperature increase between 0.8 and 1.2 °C (1.4 and 2.2 °F) since preindustrial times, and most of the warming over the second half of the 20th century could be attributed to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels .

The presence of environmental pollution raises the issue of pollution control . Great efforts are made to limit the release of harmful substances into the environment through air pollution control , wastewater treatment , solid-waste management , hazardous-waste management , and recycling . Unfortunately, attempts at pollution control are often surpassed by the scale of the problem, especially in less-developed countries . Noxious levels of air pollution are common in many large cities, where particulates and gases from transportation, heating, and manufacturing accumulate and linger. The problem of plastic pollution on land and in the oceans has only grown as the use of single-use plastics has burgeoned worldwide. In addition, greenhouse gas emissions, such as methane and carbon dioxide , continue to drive global warming and pose a great threat to biodiversity and public health .

Environmental Pollution and Its Effect on Health

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Environmental pollution is one of the fundamental factors directly affecting climate change. Due to the active production and human use of fossil fuel products, industrial enterprises’ activities exert intense pressure on the environment. Air pollution has a direct negative impact not only on the climatic situation but also on people’s health throughout the country. The most vulnerable category of the population to climate change is adults over 65 since external factors most strongly influence their health.

Industrial enterprises for the extraction and processing of fossil fuels are located throughout the United States of America. Moreover, agricultural activities and natural disasters, such as seasonal forest fires, substantially impact the ecological situation. Moreover, given the air masses’ movement and the cyclical nature of many biological processes, it is fair to conclude that air pollution problems are national. First of all, the increased content of heavy particles such as CO2, N2O, and NH3 has a severe impact on the human respiratory system. The lungs receive additional stress due to respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic objective pulmonary illness.

Furthermore, the lack of pure oxygen in the body harms other human organs: the brain, heart, and digestive system. According to new data from the World Health Organization (WHO) (2018), 9 out of 10 people breathe air with an increased concentration of pollutants. The WHO estimates that 7 million people die each year from the effects of inhaling air-containing particulate matter causing diseases such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and pneumonia (World Health Organization, 2018). Older people are most vulnerable to environmental pollution, as their level of immunity weakens with age.

The negative impact of human-made pollution sources is actively affecting climate change. First of all, the above factors affect the increase in temperature in the atmosphere. According to the Lancet Countdown, temperature-related deaths in people over 65 have increased by 50% in the past twenty years (Watts et al., 2020). In the southern regions, there is an increased risk associated with an increase in atmospheric temperature, which in the long term will lead to droughts, floods, and, as a result, food crises. In addition, high temperatures increase the rate at which infectious diseases such as malaria spread, which also poses additional risks in some countries (Fairweather, 2020). Thus, the problem of climate change is not only national but also goes to the global level.

To solve this problem, a systematic and comprehensive approach is required, the application of which will take a relatively long period. In climate change, due to air pollution, the main force to prevent environmental disasters need to change the approach to the production of substances from fossil fuels. First of all, increased taxation and legislative acts limiting the number of harmful products will reduce the burden on the environment. Recent technological solutions allow the use of renewable energy sources with increasing efficiency. Large companies gradually lose the need to use coal or petroleum products. Conglomerates continue to use them due to low prices. Therefore, government intervention is needed, aimed not to adjusting the market as a harmful environmental consequence.

Due to the rapid development and massive use of modern technologies by the population, people’s way of life has changed. In the twenty-first century, the world community is ready to actively assist the government by applying the principles of conscious consumption and reducing the emissions of solid and gaseous waste into nature. People are beginning to use public transport, bicycles, and other transportation, emitting several times fewer emissions than cars.

Moreover, the environmental agenda is growing: citizens choose special packaging of products, strive to sort waste into categories, and the state needs to support private initiatives at the federal and local levels (Akhtar & Palagiano, 2018). First of all, it is necessary to create all the conditions to make it easier for people to choose environmentally friendly products, create additional waste sorting centers, and raise citizens’ education in environmental matters. This can be done both by legislative acts, there and by local decisions.

The problem of climate change and air pollution is global. Accordingly, a considerable number of people are subject to changes that affect their daily life. Consequently, there is an additional burden on the health care system. If the current trend continues, the situation runs the risk of spiraling out of control due to medical institutions’ limited capacity. The pandemic of the COVID-19 virus, which has spread worldwide, has demonstrated the existence of vulnerabilities in the healthcare system (Richardson, 2020). In cases where many people need the qualified help, medical institutions may not cope with the load. In the event of critical climate changes, implying global cataclysms, the healthcare system will not be able to cope with the task.

To sum up, climate change is primarily due to the high level of harmful substances emissions into the atmosphere. According to statistics, every year, more and more people over 65 years old directly feel the consequences of the changes. First of all, to reduce environmental change, it is necessary to introduce stringent measures for large industrial enterprises and agricultural centers. Increasing ecological awareness of the population also favorably contributes to curbing global warming and, as a result, reduces people’s vulnerability to disease.

Akhtar, R., & Palagiano, C. (2018). Climate change and air pollution . Switzerland: Springer International Publishing.

Watts, N., Amann, M., Arnell, N., Ayeb-Karlsson, S., Beagley, J., Belesova, K.,… & Capstick, S. (2020). The 2020 report of The Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: Responding to converging crises. The Lancet . Web.

World Health Organization. (2018). Air pollution and child health: Prescribing clean air: Summary (WHO Reference Number WHO/CED/PHE/18.01). Web.

Richardson, S. J., et al. (2020). Research with older people in a world with COVID-19: identification of current and future priorities, challenges and opportunities. Age and Ageing, 49 (6), 901-906.

Fairweather, V., Hertig, E., and Traidl‐Hoffmann, C. (2020). A brief introduction to climate change and health. Allergy, 75(9), 2352-2354. Web.

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Essay on Environmental Pollution

Updated February 16, 2023

Environmental Pollution

Essay on Environmental Pollution explains that Pollution, also known as environmental pollution, is the addition of any substance, whether it’s solid, liquid, or gas, or a form of energy (such as heat, sound, or radioactivity) to the environment at a rate greater than it disperses, dilutes, decomposes, recycles or stored in an innocuous form. Pollution can adversely affect the environment, flora, and fauna and often impacts human health and well-being.

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Now that you know what environmental pollution is, let’s look at what causes it:

An imbalance occurs when the environment contains too many physical, chemical, or biological agents.

• Chemical Contaminants: Plastics, acids, solvents, pesticides, and petroleum derivatives.
• Physical Contaminants: Heat, electromagnetic energy, noise, and radioactivity.
• Biological Contaminants: Excrement, factory waste, and sewers decompose and ferment to produce them.

Different types of pollution have their reason their causes. But now the question arises what these different types of environmental pollution are?

1. Air Pollution

Any chemical, physical, or biological agent that alters the atmosphere’s natural characteristics consider air pollution.

• Burning of Fossil Fuel
• Combustion of Fuel (transportation)
• Microbial Activity in Sewage Water
• Burning of Tropical Forest

2. Water Pollution

The release of substances into water bodies that make the water unfit for human consumption and disrupt aquatic ecosystems is well-known as water pollution. Numerous contaminants, including petroleum, harmful microorganisms, and toxic waste, can pollute water.

• Sewage Discharge
• Deforestation
• Phytosanitary Product (Pesticides)

3. Soil Contamination

The accumulation of solid or liquid waste materials on land or underground in a manner that has the potential to contaminate groundwater and soil, pose a threat to public health, and result in unsightly conditions and nuisances.

• Urban Waste
• Industrial Waste
• Underground storage Tank

4. Thermal Pollution

Thermal pollution is when industries or factories extract water from natural resources for various purposes and return the high-temperature water to those resources.

• Coal-fired Power Plant
• Soil Erosion

Effect of Pollution

There are so many negative effects of environmental pollution.

1. Effect on Human

People are mostly affected physically by environmental pollution, but it can also cause neuro-affections over time. We are most familiar with respiratory issues like asthma, allergies, irritation of the eyes and nasal passages, and other respiratory infections. It has also shown that environmental pollution significantly contributes to cancer development.

2. Effect on Animals

Animals are primarily affected by environmental pollution because it harms their living conditions and makes them toxic. Acid rains can change the composition of rivers and seas, making them toxic to fish. Eventually, soil pollution will kill microorganisms, which can destroy the first layers of the primary food chain dramatically.

3. Effect on Plant

In terms of animals, acid rain can kill plants, particularly trees (which will also harm animals because it will change their natural environment), ozone in the lower atmosphere prevents plants from breathing, and harmful pollutants can absorb water or soil.

4. Effect on Ecosystem

Pollution of the environment, almost entirely caused by human activity, hurts the ecosystem, destroying essential layers and harming the ecosystem’s upper layers.

How to Resolve Environmental Pollution?

Our lives, planet, climate, and civilization’s future are at risk. Even though the idea of that thought can be overwhelming, you shouldn’t let yourself feel helpless because you don’t know where to start.

Here’s a list of things to do to prevent environmental pollution:

1. Replace Disposable with Reusable

If you use something and throw it away, it could be there for centuries. The following is a list of easy changes you can make to reduce the number of things you need to throw away daily.

• Bring your reusable cups or water bottle.
• Use rechargeable batteries and carry your utensils, napkin, and containers in a reusable lunch bag.

2. Conserve Water and Electricity

The suggestions listed below will appear straightforward; Having said that, it might take some time to become more aware of your unconscious and uncertain habits.

• While brushing your teeth, turn off the water in the sink.
• When possible, unplug devices; even if any appliance at home or other places turns off, it might still consume power.

One of the most effective methods for assisting in preserving natural resources, conserving habitats, reducing pollution, and slowing global warming is to incorporate recycling practices into your daily routine.

• Recycle plastic bottles.
• Separate non-recyclable and recyclable products from each other.

4. Transport Choice

Air pollution can be significantly reduced by choosing a less polluting mode of transportation. Even one can help in controlling noise pollution too. Here are a few ways to do so.

• Using eco-friendly vehicles like bicycles and e-bikes.
• Opting for CNG.

Conclusion – Essay on Environmental Pollution

All in all, Essay on Environmental pollution explains that Environmental pollution is degrading our lifestyle and affecting everything worldwide. The types mentioned above are only a few types of environmental pollution, but to one’s disbelief, there are more than one can count on their fingers. Moving toward a developed technological world, you should remember your values and duty towards the environment for the future or our present.

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Water Pollution: Causes and Effects| UPSC Notes

Water pollution is a growing problem that affects ecosystems, human health, and economies around the world. It occurs when harmful substances, such as chemicals, waste, and pathogens, contaminate water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans. This contamination disrupts the natural balance of aquatic environments and poses serious risks to all living organisms. Water pollution is a critical issue that requires immediate attention and action to protect our planet’s most vital resource. Water pollution can originate from various sources, both natural and human-made.

• What is Water Pollution? It refers to the introduction of harmful substances into water bodies, causing adverse effects on the environment.
• Causes of water pollution include industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage discharge, among others.
• Effects of water pollution are far-reaching, impacting human health, wildlife, and the overall quality of the environment.

Table of Contents

What is Water Pollution?

Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater, with harmful substances. These pollutants can be chemical, biological, or physical, and they disrupt the natural processes in aquatic environments. Water pollution results from various sources, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, sewage discharge, and plastic waste. This contamination poses serious risks to human health, wildlife, and ecosystems, making it a critical environmental issue that requires urgent attention and action.

Causes of Water Pollution

• Industrial Waste : Factories discharge pollutants directly into water bodies, including chemicals, heavy metals, and toxic substances.
• Agricultural Runoff : Pesticides, fertilizers, and animal waste from farms seep into rivers, lakes, and groundwater, contaminating them.
• Sewage Discharge : Untreated or partially treated wastewater from homes and businesses flows into water sources, introducing harmful pathogens and chemicals.
• Urbanization : Increased construction and development lead to runoff carrying pollutants like oil, grease, and debris into water bodies.
• Oil Spills : Accidental leaks from ships and oil rigs release large quantities of oil into oceans, severely affecting marine life.
• Plastic Waste : Improper disposal of plastic products results in pollution of rivers, lakes, and oceans, harming aquatic life.
• Mining Activities : Mining operations often release harmful chemicals, such as mercury and arsenic, into nearby water sources.
• Deforestation : The removal of trees leads to soil erosion, causing sediments to enter water bodies and disrupt ecosystems.

Effects of Water Pollution

• Human Health Risks : Contaminated water can cause diseases like cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and other waterborne illnesses, severely impacting human health.
• Wildlife Harm : Toxic pollutants accumulate in aquatic organisms, disrupting food chains and leading to mass die-offs of marine life.
• Ecosystem Disruption : Water pollutions alters the natural balance of ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and leading to the loss of habitats.
• Economic Impact : Polluted water negatively affects industries like fishing, tourism, and agriculture, leading to economic losses and job reductions.
• Water Scarcity : It reduces the availability of clean, usable, exacerbating the global waters scarcity crisis.
• Soil Contamination : Pollutants from water bodies can seep into the soil, degrading its quality and affecting agricultural productivity.
• Acidification of Water Bodies : Polluted water can become acidic, harming aquatic life and altering the chemical balance of water bodies.
• Aesthetic Damage : Polluted rivers, lakes, and oceans become unsightly, deterring recreational activities and reducing the quality of life for nearby residents.
• Reduced Oxygen Levels : It often leads to decreased oxygen levels in waters, causing dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive.
• Increased Water Treatment Costs : Polluted water requires more extensive and expensive treatment to make it safe for human consumption and use.

In conclusion, water pollution is a critical issue that arises from various human activities, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage discharge. These causes of water pollutions lead to devastating effects of water pollutions on human health, wildlife, and ecosystems. Contaminated water sources spread diseases, disrupt food chains, and harm the environment, creating a ripple effect that impacts communities and economies worldwide. Addressing this crisis requires collective action, awareness, and the implementation of sustainable practices to protect our planet’s most vital resource—clean water.

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What is the long-term effect of wildfire smoke exposure? Science is trying to figure it out

• Updated: Aug. 22, 2024, 1:11 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 22, 2024, 1:10 p.m.

Firefighters pass smoke from a backfire as crews work to protect the Milll Creek community in Tehama County, Calif., Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Noah Berger) AP

• Christopher Harress | [email protected]

As U.S. wildfire seasons escalate in length and intensity , firefighters and residents in western states face mounting threats to their long-term health due to prolonged exposure to smoke.

The problem is that we don’t know much about what it does to human bodies, raising concerns for vulnerable people, like children, older people, and those with respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Wildland firefighters are also exposed to extremely high levels of smoke for months at a time. In our modern, high-tech world , Americans have access to troves of live data showing air quality levels in just about any location in the country and the associated risk factors. People in cities and rural environments can look at that data to make an informed choice about going outside.

But there’s a major problem with this approach. The Air Quality Index , a tool created by the Environmental Protection Agency , was created using decades of research into the health effects of urban air pollution, not wildfire smoke. While urban air pollution has improved drastically since before the 1970s, owing to the passing of the Clean Air Act in 1963 and major additions in subsequent decades, wildfire smoke is different. It raises important questions about how wildfires affect our health and what short—and long-term — damage they could do.

Urban air pollution , mainly from vehicles and industry, contains nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and fossil-fuel particulate matter like black carbon. Wildfire smoke , however, is rich in organic particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like acrolein and formaldehyde, with lower levels of NOx and SO2.

According to EPA studies , emerging research suggests that wildfire smoke may lead to different short-term health outcomes than urban pollution. However, researching the differences over long periods is not easy.

Reckon spoke with Prof. Matthew Strickland, chair of the Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Environmental Health at the University of Nevada, Reno, to learn more.

What do we know about the health effects of urban air pollution on humans compared to wildfire smoke?

Prof. Strickland: There are concerns and questions about wildfire smoke being very different from urban air pollution. The chemistry, epidemiology, and some of the toxicology studies that have come out show that it’s different and has different health outcomes.

The research supporting the Air Quality Index is not really specific to wildfire smoke. Multiple studies have provided at least preliminary evidence that wildfire smoke might be more harmful to respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD than typical urban air pollution mixes and perhaps less consequential for cardiovascular disease. Those are open research questions.

Heart attacks seem less strongly associated with wildfire smoke than urban air pollution. It’s just different.

We know urban air pollution harms children and can send them on a different health trajectory into adulthood. What are the long-term effects of wildfire smoke on them?

That’s a tricky question because it’s challenging to study children who live in neighborhoods with relatively high air pollution and children who live in parts of the country where there’s a lot of wildfire smoke during a sensitive period of their development. We know these examples exist. Questions about what it means for their lives when they’re 30 or 40 years old are fascinating and not impossible to answer. However, they’re challenging because of the long follow-up times and obtaining health information over decades. I think it’s an important question, but one that is really pushing the limits of what we can do. I think it’s aspirational at some level. Kids are physically smaller, so their airways are not as large. If you have inflammation or something caused by air pollution, it blocks more of the airway. That means kids could end up with more immediate problems from wildfire smoke. But in the long term, it’s not easy to know.

Why are we not doing these studies?

I can’t apply for a National Institute of Health grant for a 30-year study right now. That’s just not how it works. The institute typically grants studies in five-year periods. There may be exceptions for some, but it’s not normal. If you do a good job, gather interesting data, write compelling grant proposals, and convince them to give you money to follow the people for another five years, that’s great. We see examples of that in the literature, but there are no guarantees and scientific priorities eventually shift, making it harder to get the grant repeatedly over long periods. The research community also shifts. And then there are the challenges of tracking people into adulthood as they disperse all over the country and get tired of us asking them questions every couple of years. That reminds me of the 75-year Harvard study on happiness. Are there other ways to find firm scientific answers in a country dealing with more wildfire and smoke?

In European countries with socialized medicine and a national healthcare system, it becomes easier to examine a person’s history over a long period. If someone lives in Stockholm, Sweden, their whole lives and every medical encounter they’ve ever had are easier to access. Based on that, you can create longer studies. They’re always a bit crude because they may not involve asking questions or looking at biomarker measurements, but at least you can see when the person went to the doctor, their health concerns, and what kind of restrictions they had. We can see if they had a chronic disease and the age at which they got it. There are lots of interesting things you can do with that.

However, when it comes to wildfire smoke, the research is overwhelmingly focused on short-term health effects. In other words, it’s smoky today; it was smoky yesterday. What does that mean for people going to urgent care today? It’s that short-term. That’s a majority of the research that’s been published. As our society comes to terms with this idea of living with fire and that fire and smoke are just in the cards for us moving forward, I think those questions are going to become more interesting and more important to address

What about wildland firefighters who spend up to nine months going from fire to fire without breathing apparatus? They have anecdotally high rates of cancer and mental health issues.

They have very high exposure. It’s different from fighting a house fire, where firefighters have substantial protective equipment. In the wildland fire setting, a scarf over your mouth is pretty much what you’re looking at. There have been many studies done to quantify their exposure. People go out to the field with them, and they measure the particulate matter concentrations in smoke, biomarker concentrations, and urine. Based on our biological understanding of what smoke and particulate matter do to people, we’re not surprised if cancer rates and other bad outcomes go up. As we adapt to this reality of living with fire, it’s important to recognize that these wildland firefighters are not people you call up just occasionally when a fire breaks out. They work the majority of the year fighting fires, which is very significant exposure for that group compared to the same people in the 1980s and 90s. The exposure is extreme, and we need to take care of those people.

What about socioeconomic disparities when it comes to wildfire smoke? Are there any differences in resilience and vulnerability?

Some published papers show differences in socioeconomics due to exposure to wildfire smoke, with neighborhoods of lower socioeconomic status tending to be more likely to be impacted by smoke. In my opinion, it’s just a little different from some of the other environmental justice issues that we think about when we think about pollution. If you buy a home next to a bustling road, as opposed to back in the neighborhood, the house near the busy road will cost less, all things being equal. Consistent, obvious socioeconomic disparities in urban air pollution are related to property values and other factors. If there’s a wildfire in California and the smoke blows into Reno 200 miles away, we all get it. And if we don’t get it, it’s either too high up in the air, or the wind just pushed it somewhere else.

Wildfire smoke is not quite the same thing as thinking about traffic pollution in our inner city or urban environments.

But aren’t these communities growing toward our forests and other wild places?

There is this issue of the wildland-urban interface, which is the boundary between the forest and where people live. And a lot of times, it’s nicer homes out there. If you think about Lake Tahoe, people like to live out in the forest. Ideally, it’s up on a hill so you can see the lake. Many of those houses are very expensive and vulnerable to fires because they’re being built in the forest. As we approach that interface, it becomes tricky for firefighters to create lines or barriers to prevent the fire from reaching the people’s homes because they live right out in the forest. So that’s a little bit different, too.

There are so many technological innovations that help deal with urban pollution and wildfire smoke, which we can access from our phones. Are there any unconventional or innovative approaches to mitigate health problems related to wildfire smoke?

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For a couple of hundred dollars, you can buy fans with high-quality filters. You can put them in your bedroom, decreasing the concentration of particulate matter. They are rated for different square footage. But in my family —my wife, myself, and our two kids— we have three. We need to put them in our bedrooms at night if there’s smoke, or if I’m working from home, I carry it downstairs and put it next to my desk. They really do help. The filters are kind of expensive to replace, but they work well in terms of adapting to living with more fire smoke. HVAC systems also have that capability, and just changing the filters on your HVAC generally helps.

This is the reality in the western United States now. It’s impacting other parts of the US as well, such as Canadian fires.

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• Short-term Wildfire Pollution Promotes Asthma Hospitalizations

Heidi Splete

August 22, 2024

Higher levels of air pollution from wildfires were associated with significant spikes in hospitalizations for asthma and a slight increase in hospitalizations for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in surrounding areas, based on data from approximately 80,000 individuals.

Short-term increases in fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) resulting from wildfire smoke are becoming a greater global problem and have been associated with poor asthma and COPD outcomes, wrote Benjamin D. Horne, PhD, of the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, and colleagues. However, the effect of short-term increases in PM 2.5  on hospitalizations for asthma and COPD has not been well studied, they noted.

"Our primary reason for studying the association of air pollution in the summer/fall wildfire season separately from the winter is that the drought conditions in the western United States from 2012-2022 resulted in more wildfires and increasingly large wildfires across the west," Horne said in an interview. "In part, this provided a chance to measure an increase of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) air pollution from wildfires and also to track what happened to their health when people were exposed to the PM 2.5 from wildfire," he said. 

During 2020-2022, the PM 2.5  produced during the wildfire season exceeded the PM 2.5 levels measured in the winter for the first time, Horne said. In the part of Utah where the study was conducted, PM 2.5 increases in winter because of a combination of concentrated PM 2.5 from cars and industry and a weather phenomenon known as a temperature inversion, he said. 

A temperature inversion occurs when mountain topography traps pollutants near the ground where the people are, but only during times of cold and snowy weather, Horne said. 

"Past studies in the region were conducted with the assumption that the winter inversion was the primary source of pollution-related health risks, and public and healthcare guidance for health was based on avoiding winter air pollution," Horne noted. However, "it may be that the smoke from wildfires requires people to also anticipate how to avoid exposure to PM 2.5  during the summer," he said. 

In a study published in CHEST Pulmonary , the researchers reviewed data from 63,976 patients hospitalized with asthma and 18,514 hospitalized with COPD between January 1999 and March 2022 who lived in an area of Utah in which PM 2.5 and ozone are measured by the Environmental Protection Agency. The average age of the asthma patients was 22.6 years; 51.0% were women, 16.0% had hypertension, and 10.1% had a history of smoking. The average age of the COPD patients was 63.5 years, 50.3% were women, 69.1% had hypertension, and 42.3% had a history of smoking.

In a regression analysis, the risk for asthma was significantly associated with days of increased PM 2.5 during wildfire season and similar to the winter inversion (when cold air traps air pollutants), with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.057 and 1.023 for every 10 µg per m 3 of particulate matter, respectively. 

Although the risk for asthma hospitalization decreased after a week, a rebound occurred during wildfire season after a 4-week lag, with an OR of 1.098 for every 10 µg per m 3 of particulate matter, the researchers wrote. A review of all months showed a significant association between a concurrent day increase in PM 2.5  and asthma hospitalization (OR, 1.020 per every 10 µg per m 3 of particulate matter, P = .0006).

By contrast, PM 2.5 increases had only a weak association with hospitalizations for COPD during either wildfire season or winter inversion season, and ozone was not associated with increased risks for patients with asthma or COPD. 

The findings were limited by several factors including the observational design, potential for confounding, and relatively homogenous study population, the researchers noted.

However, "these findings suggest that people should be aware of the risks from wildfire-generated PM 2.5  during the summer and fall, including following best practices for people with asthma such as anticipating symptoms in warm months, carrying medications during summer activities, and expecting to stay indoors to avoid smoke exposure when wildfires have polluted the outdoor air," Horne told Medscape Medical News .

In the current study, Horne and colleagues expected to see increases in the risk for asthma and COPD during summer wildfire season. "What was surprising was that the size of the risk of needing care of asthma appeared to occur just as rapidly after the PM 2.5 became elevated during wildfire events as it did in the winter," Horne told Medscape Medical News . "Further, the risk in the summer appeared to be greater than during the winter. Increases in hospitalization for asthma occurred on the same day and throughout the first week after a rise in air pollution in summer and early fall, and especially in children that risk remained increased for up to a month after the rise in air pollution," he said. 

Clinicians should be aware of environmental sources of respiratory declines caused by wildfire smoke that may prompt patients to seek care during wildfire events, said Horne. Finally, the general population should recognize the smell of smoke during warm months as an alert that leads to greater caution about spending time outdoors during wildfire events, he said. "Short-term PM 2.5  elevations may affect respiratory health and have other effects such as on heart health," Horne said. "In general, people should avoid outdoor exercise when air pollution is elevated, since the amount of air that is breathed in during exercise is substantially increased," he added. 

"Further research is needed regarding the mechanisms of effect from PM 2.5 on health risk, including effects on respiratory and cardiovascular health," said Horne. "This includes evaluating what biomarkers in the blood are changed by air pollution such as inflammatory factors, determining whether some medications may block or reduce the adverse effects of air pollution, and examining whether masks or indoor air purifiers have a meaningful benefit in protecting health during short-term air pollution elevations," he said.

Data Reveal Respiratory Impact of Wildfires

"Fine particle air pollution has been linked to poor respiratory health outcomes, but relatively little is known about the specific impact of wildfire particulate pollution on patients living in urban population centers," said Alexander S. Rabin, MD, of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, in an interview. 

"Although it is known that wildfire risk is increasing throughout the western United States, the increase in the number of days per month with elevated fine particulate matter from 1999 to 2022 was striking," said Rabin, who was not involved in the current study. "Over the same period, there was a decrease in the number of high fine particulate matter air pollution days related to the wintertime temperature inversion phenomenonwhen air pollutants are trapped in Utah's valleys," he said. "These data underscore the increased risk of wildfire-related air pollution relative to 'traditional sources of air pollution from industrial and transportation sources," he added. 

Although the adverse effects of exposure to wildfire smoke and inversion season pollution on asthma were not unexpected, the degree of the effect size of wildfire smoke relative to inversion season was surprising, Rabin told Medscape Medical News . 

"Why the wildfire smoke seems to have a worse impact on asthma outcomes could not be determined from this study, but there may be something inherently more dangerous about the cocktail of pollutants released when large wildfires burn uncontrolled," he said. "I was surprised by the lack of association between wildfire smoke and adverse COPD outcomes; whether this relates to physiological differences or variations in healthcare-seeking behaviors between patients with asthma vs COPD is unknown," he added. 

The current study underscores the harmful effects of fine particulate pollution from wildfire smoke on health, and the increased risk for hospitalization for those with asthma even in urban environments far from the source of the fire, Rabin said.

However, limitations include the use of estimates of fine particulate pollution taken from monitoring stations that were an average of 14 km from the participants' primary residences, and air quality measurements may not have accurately reflected exposure, Rabin noted. "Additionally, the population studied was not reflective of the US population, with approximately 80% of study participants described as non-Hispanic white," he said. "Patients of color may have increased vulnerability to adverse outcomes from air pollution and therefore additional study is needed in these populations," Rabin added.

The study was supported in part by the AIRHEALTH program project and by internal institutional funds. Horne disclosed serving on the advisory board of Opsis Health, previously consulting for Pfizer regarding risk scores and serving as site principal investigator of a grant funded by the Task Force for Global Health and a grant from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute and the NIH-funded RECOVER initiative. Rabin had no financial conflicts to disclose.

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Essay on Beat Plastic Pollution: Causes, Consequences, and Mitigation Strategies

• Updated on  
• Feb 12, 2024

Essay on Beat Plastic Pollution: Plastic is everywhere. From our clean bedrooms to large ocean bodies, our life is surrounded by plastic. Did you know that the world annually produces around 35 crore tonnes of plastic waste?

In the modern world, plastic has become one of the major sources of pollution. Plastic is a non-biodegradable component, which takes hundreds of years to decompose. Most of the used plastic ends up in landfills, which releases toxic chemicals into the soil and water. The burning of plastic causes air pollution, as it releases volatile organic compounds. 

Essay on beat plastic pollution is one of the most common essay topics assigned to school and college students. An essay on beat plastic pollution must cover the causes of plastic pollution, its consequences, and mitigation strategies. Below, we have provided all the details to add to an essay on beating plastic pollution.

Table of Contents

• 1 What is Plastic Pollution?
• 2.1 1. Single Use Plastic
• 2.2 2. Lack of Recycling Infrastructure
• 2.3 3. Improper Disposal
• 2.4 5. Overconsumption of Plastic Products
• 2.5 6. Inadequate Regulations
• 3.1 1. Water Pollution
• 3.2 2. Soil Contamination
• 3.3 3. Harm to Wildlife
• 3.4 4. Microplastic Contamination
• 3.5 5. Disruption of Ecosystem
• 3.6 6. Risk to Human Health
• 4 How to Beat Plastic Pollution?

Master the art of essay writing with our blog on How to Write an Essay in English .

What is Plastic Pollution?

The accumulation of plastic substances and objects in our natural environment, like waterbodies, soil, etc. is known as plastic pollution. This pollution hurts the natural environment, our resources, and even on animals around us. According to a UN report, more than 100 million marine animals die every year due to plastic waste alone. Some of the common plastic wastes are cigarette butts, food wrappers, plastic bottles, plastic grocery bags, plastic straws, etc. 

Also Read: Types of Water Pollution

Causes of Plastic Pollution

Several causes can be cited as reasons for plastic pollution. It is our improper disposal and management of plastic materials that causes plastic pollution. Plastic is often called ‘unnatural’ as it is created by humans and negatively affects the environment. Plastic is cheap and its elements are in abundance. 

1. Single Use Plastic

It is the major cause of plastic pollution. Most of the plastic produced is used only once. Hence, named single-use plastic. The billions of plastic bags, bottles, food packaging and trays produced end up in landfills and water bodies. Even if we try our best to stop this single-use plastic, it will still end up in the same place. 

2. Lack of Recycling Infrastructure

In developing and underdeveloped countries, there is a lack of plastic recycling infrastructure, which threatens the environment. These countries lack the necessary infrastructure for plastic waste disposal, which results in landfills and water pollution. 

3. Improper Disposal

Improper disposal of plastic waste affects our food chain. Inadequate waste management and improper disposal of plastic items are major contributors to plastic pollution. Littering, dumping plastics in landfills, and improper disposal practices can result in plastic entering water bodies, soil, and the air.

5. Overconsumption of Plastic Products

Since its invention, plastic demand has always reached a new peak, driven by factors like population growth and consumer preferences, leading to higher production and disposal of plastics. This contributes to the accumulation of plastic waste in various ecosystems.

6. Inadequate Regulations

Not everybody considers plastic a threat to the environment. That’s why, there are weak or insufficient regulations on the production, use, and disposal of plastic products. Lack of enforcement and oversight allows for improper disposal and management practices.

Consequences of Plastic Pollution

Our environment is not the only victim of plastic pollution. Our ecosystems, wildlife and our health are also affected by plastic waste. Plastic chokes marine wildlife, killing millions of marine animals every year. Plastic production is energy-intensive as the machines used require a significant amount of energy.

1. Water Pollution

Every year, around 14 million tonnes of plastic waste ends up in our oceans, damaging the marine environment and animals. The accumulation of plastic waste in water bodies can have long-term ecological consequences.

2. Soil Contamination

Improper disposal of plastic waste results in soil contamination. Plastics release harmful chemicals as they break down, affecting soil quality and potentially harming plants, animals, and microorganisms.

3. Harm to Wildlife

Domestic animals are often fed food entangled in plastic items. In India, a large number of cows and buffalos die as most people often have their food wrapped in plastic bags. The ingestion of plastic can lead to internal injuries, blockages, malnutrition, and death. Marine animals, in particular, are at risk as they can easily ingest or become entangled in plastic debris.

4. Microplastic Contamination

Although plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, the larger plastic items break down into smaller particles called microplastics. Microplastics can contaminate water bodies, soil, and air, posing risks to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. They can also enter the food chain, potentially affecting human health.

5. Disruption of Ecosystem

Plastic pollution disrupts ecosystems by affecting the balance of various species and their interactions. The presence of plastic debris in natural habitats can lead to changes in biodiversity, nutrient cycles, and ecosystem function. 

6. Risk to Human Health

Microplastics and the chemicals associated with plastics can enter the human food chain, primarily through the consumption of contaminated seafood and other food items. 

How to Beat Plastic Pollution?

Remember the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle strategy? Here’s a little different approach introduced by the United Nations Environment Protocol (UNEP): Reuse, Recycle, and Reorient. Through this approach, the UNEP has planned to reduce plastic waste by 80% in the next two decades. 

We as plastic producers and consumers must take environmentally friendly actions and effectively implement this approach in our daily lives. 

• Firstly, we must eliminate unnecessary plastic, such as plastic packaging, reusing refillable water bottles, and every single-use plastic item. 
• Reducing plastic production will be the next step. We must advocate and support policies that regulate the plastic production, use, and disposal of plastics. Encouraging local representatives can greatly reduce overall plastic production and promote anti-plastic pollution measures
• Promoting and implementing recycling programs and guidelines will help reduce the overall production of plastic waste. It can be done by practising the separation of recyclables from non-recyclables and ensuring their proper disposal.
• Identification of which plastic item is useful and which is not must be done. Recycling is a great way to beat plastic pollution, but it alone cannot achieve the desired goals. 
• Avoiding microplastics can help in combating plastic pollution. We must choose personal care products that do not contain microbeads. The plastic clothes are made of synthetic fabrics, which shed microfibers during washing.

To eliminate plastic pollution, we must unite as one and take immediate action. We only have one home and we must do everything in our power to save it from such harmful events.

Ans: The accumulation of plastic substances and objects in our natural environment, like waterbodies, soil, etc. is known as plastic pollution. This pollution hurts the natural environment, our resources, and even on animals around us.

Ans: Plastic is everywhere. From our clean bedrooms to large ocean bodies, our life is surrounded by plastic. Did you know that the world annually produces around 35 crore tonnes of plastic waste? In the modern world, plastic has become one of the major sources of pollution. Plastic is a non-biodegradable component, which takes hundreds of years to decompose. Most of the used plastic ends up in landfills, which releases toxic chemicals into the soil and water. The burning of plastic causes air pollution, as it releases volatile organic compounds. 

Ans: Improper disposal of plastic waste results in soil contamination. Every year, around 14 million tonnes of plastic waste ends up in our oceans, damaging the marine environment and animals. In developing and underdeveloped countries, there is a lack of plastic recycling infrastructure, which threatens the environment. Plastic pollution disrupts ecosystems by affecting the balance of various species and their interactions. Microplastics and the chemicals associated with plastics can enter the human food chain, primarily through the consumption of contaminated seafood and other food items.

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			and , 2024, vol. 92, issue 4, 1063-1096 We use high‐frequency data on fine particulate matter air pollution (PM 2.5) at the locality level to study the effects of high pollution on daily labor supply decisions in the metropolitan area of Mexico City. We document a negative, non‐linear relationship between PM 2.5 and same‐day labor supply, with strong effects on days with extremely high pollution levels. On these days, the average worker experiences a reduction of around 7.5% of working hours. Workers partially compensate for lost hours by increasing their labor supply on days that follow high‐pollution days. We find that low‐income workers reduce their labor supply significantly less than high‐income workers. Unequal responses to high pollution along other dimensions (job quality, flexibility, gender) matter, but less than income. We provide suggestive evidence that reductions in labor supply due to high pollution are consistent with avoidance behavior. 2024 (external link) This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: for items with the same title. BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text This journal article can be ordered from for this article Econometrica is currently edited by in Econometrica from Contact information at . Bibliographic data for series maintained by Wiley Content Delivery ( ). Publications Journals & Series About • News • PrePub papers (EarlyAccess) • Current issue • All published volumes • Special issues • Editorial board • Instructions to authors • Open Access / Color fees • Submit manuscript online Search in Entomologia Generalis : Content alerts Stay up to date with free content alerts via e-mail. Subscribe now Customer account Register account All publications Journals & Series Entomologia Generalis Prepublication papers Bottom-up effects ... Stinkbug predators Original paper Bottom-up effects of polyethylene microplastics on the growth and development of potato, colorado potato beetle and stinkbug predators, zhang, jiebo; hu, yang; niu, fushuai; sun, hanhan; yang, hangxin; jiang, nanziying; li, chao. Entomologia Generalis (2024) published online: Aug 22, 2024 manuscript accepted: Jul 8, 2024 manuscript revision received: Jun 12, 2024 manuscript revision requested: Mar 6, 2024 manuscript received: Dec 28, 2023 DOI: 10.1127/entomologia/2024/2426 BibTeX file RIS bibliography file Open Access (paper may be downloaded free of charge) With the widespread adoption of agricultural cultivation technologies, the continuous accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in agroecosystems poses a major threat to the growth, development, yield, and food chains in crops. 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Bottom-up effects of polyethylene microplastics on the growth and The effects of PE-MPs on potato growth and yield, as well as their impact on L. decemlineata and the potential predation ability of A. chinensis, were evaluated. We found that: 1) Adding PE-MPs to the soil not only prolonged the emergence time of potato plants but also reduced plant height and stem diameter, ultimately reducing potato yield. assignment essay homework phd report resume review speech thesis