Long-Term Effects of Pollution

Any dangerous, toxic, or otherwise harmful substance spewed into the environment is considered pollution. Pollution can be as simple as a few trash bags on the highway or as complex as dangerous emissions from coal power plants. Pollution has a wide range of long-term effects on humans and the environment.

Contamination

• Chemical pollutants dumped into rivers and lakes can have incredibly damaging effects on the human population in addition to local wildlife. Water that is no longer safe to drink will result in humans being unable to inhabit the area until it can once again support life. Fish might die because of chemicals in the water, leading to endangerment and eventual extinction of them and the animals that feed on them, such as bears and birds.

Global Warming

• Though still a hotly contested subject, many scientists agree that high emissions of greenhouse gasses are causing more heat to be trapped within the Earth's atmosphere. This means temperatures around the world are increasing, leading to more intense tropical storms and the melting of the polar ice caps. If the ice caps were to melt completely, animals such as polar bears and penguins might go extinct, and coastal cities could be submerged in water.

Health Risks

• Scientific studies of areas with high air pollution have shown there is a direct correlation between some diseases and pollution. In addition to increasing the rate of mortality compared to less polluted areas, pollution has been linked to birth defects, asthma and respiratory disease. These diseases have far-reaching consequences on the human population as well as a city's ability to keep citizens productive and healthy. Some forms of pollution have been known to cause genetic disorders that can be passed on from generation to generation.

Odds of a Solution

• Pollution is a problem that effects every person on Earth; however, not every nation is taking the issue seriously. The longer pollution is allowed to run rampant across the planet, the more difficult it will be to completely repair the problem. Some issues caused by pollution, including the suspected hole in the ozone layer, can never be repaired and will only grow worse if the situation is not addressed. The decreased odds of being able to fully restore the environment is one of the most important parts of the pollution problem.