Pollution is the presence of substances in our environment that are harmful to human health and the well-being of other organisms. This may be in the air, water or land, and is mainly caused by human activities, such as industrialization, deforestation, urbanization, population growth, scientific and technological advancement, poor waste management, unsustainable consumption of natural resources and inappropriate agriculture practices.
– Air pollution is the leading environmental risk to global health, responsible for more than 6.5 million deaths worldwide each year. It affects many body systems, including the heart and lungs and can lead to respiratory diseases (such as asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis), lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and even dementia and depression. It also harms the environment, reducing crop yields and contaminating water supplies.
– Environmental pollution is a problem affecting all countries and communities. The main causes are population growth, rapid industrialization, unsustainable use of natural resources, excessive agricultural cultivation and improper waste management. Pollution can be point source (coming from a specific location such as a factory or mine) or nonpoint source pollution, which comes from widespread distributions of pollutants across the landscape.
To tackle this issue, governments need to pass laws that limit the amount of chemicals factories and agribusinesses are allowed to use. This will help reduce the toxins that are released into our air, water and land. Addressing pollution also creates jobs and opportunities to stimulate economic development, improve resource efficiency and boost shared prosperity for all.
About the Author
