Pollution
Pollution is the contamination of the environment. It is caused by human activity, industry, waste and negligence. The effects of pollution are very serious, affecting the world for both humans and wildlife.
Types of pollution
1. The problem of waste - Increased technology constantly leads to the development of new products which leads to a lot of waste, for example computers. Most waste cannot be recycled and is not biodegradable (it does not break down naturally if buried or exposed). Waste takes up space, spreads disease and releases dangerous chemicals into the environment, but we are generating more every year.
2. Acid rain – the burning of fossil fuels can make rain turn acidic. At its worst it can burn buildings and forests.
3. Eutrophication – river pollution is causing a lack of oxygen in water. This can kill river life and cause human health problems.
4. Deforestation – trees are essential for the health of the environment (e.g. they stop land becoming a desert). Almost half the Amazonian Jungle has now been destroyed.
5. Radioactive Pollution – nuclear power stations produce radioactive waste that could take thousands of years to become safe.
Possible Solutions
Create less waste Less waste would mean less pollution. We can do this by recycling or reducing waste by buying products which have less packaging.
Government Action Many developed nations, like the UK, have strict laws to limit pollution levels.
Alternative Manufacturing methods Scientists are researching ways of manufacturing in ways that create less waste or that get rid of waste more effectively.
Government Action Many developed nations, like the UK, have strict laws to limit pollution levels.
Alternative Manufacturing methods Scientists are researching ways of manufacturing in ways that create less waste or that get rid of waste more effectively.
The Ozone Layer – A Success Story
In 1985 scientists discovered a ‘hole’ in the ozone layer above the Antarctic. The ozone layer is important as it stops too much ultra-violet (UV) radiation entering the earth. Too much UV exposure can cause many health problems and also harms some crops and plants.
Scientists found out the hole was caused by man-made chemicals called CFCs that are used in many fridges and sprays. People were encouraged to stop using those products and in 1987 an international treaty was signed that .limited the use of chemicals.
CFCs in the atmosphere first of all levelled off before they started to reduce. The ozone layer is beginning to repair itself.
Scientists found out the hole was caused by man-made chemicals called CFCs that are used in many fridges and sprays. People were encouraged to stop using those products and in 1987 an international treaty was signed that .limited the use of chemicals.
CFCs in the atmosphere first of all levelled off before they started to reduce. The ozone layer is beginning to repair itself.