Sources & Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Smog in the air, oil spill on the ocean, toxic waste in landfills and high levels of noise in the air are all examples of environmental pollution. Environmental pollutants are prevalent with modern living. Man-made waste from industries, farming, trading and transportation activities contribute pollutants in various forms and ways. They can be categorized broadly as air, water, soil and noise pollution. Environmental pollutants have adverse effects ranging from ozone depletion and global warming to health problems.

Air Pollution

• Tiny solid particles and gases can pollute the air. Using fossil fuels such as oil, gas or coal to generate energy to power transportation, industries and manufacturing goods can produce harmful chemicals in the process. Some of the most common air pollutants include carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide (a major component of smog), nitrogen dioxide, ozone and hydrocarbons. Air pollutants may increase risks of getting cancer, lower immunity, and compromise neurological, reproductive, developmental and respiratory systems.

Water Pollution

• Water can become contaminated from pollutants entering the water supply from the soils or groundwater system. Rain water carrying with it pollutants from the air can also cause water pollution. Runoffs from contaminated soils containing herbicides, pesticides, heavy metals and chemical waste can be carried into water sources and cause contamination. Water pollution can poison drinking water, cause imbalance to water and lake ecosystems and endanger marine life. Acid rain, or precipitation containing high amounts of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, can also cause deforestation and harm to plant and animal life.

Soil Pollution

• Soil pollution involves the contamination of the soil with liquid or solid toxic waste. These contaminants can come from sources such as the use of synthetic pesticides, oil or fuel spills, waste products from manufacturing or industrial use, underground storage tanks for petroleum or even lead from car emissions or lead paints. Lead in the soil may be hazardous to a child's brain development, mercury may increase risks of kidney damage, and pollutants in the soil in general may induce headaches, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation and skin rash.

Noise Pollution

• The air around us is constantly filled with noise. Music from the radio, noise from construction sites and loud noise generated by machines are some examples. It often goes unnoticed unless it interferes with activities such as sleeping, disrupts concentration or becomes an annoyance. Noise can induce health problems such as stress-related illnesses, high blood pressure, sleep deprivation, lost productivity and even hearing loss.