Environmental pollution is the introduction of harmful substances or forms of energy into the environment, which adversely affect living organisms and natural ecosystems. These pollutants can be physical, chemical, or biological agents that disrupt the balance of the environment, contaminating air, water, and soil to such an extent that normal environmental processes are harmed
. Pollution can take many forms, including:
- Air pollution : Contamination of the atmosphere by harmful gases and particulate matter from sources like industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and burning fossil fuels. This can cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, acid rain, and climate change
- Water pollution : Contamination of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and oceans by industrial effluents, sewage, agricultural runoff, and oil spills. It harms aquatic life, disrupts ecosystems, and poses health risks to humans
- Soil pollution : Contamination of soil by hazardous substances like pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial waste. It reduces soil fertility, contaminates crops, and affects food security
- Other forms include noise pollution, thermal pollution, light pollution, and plastic pollution, all of which impact health and ecosystems
Pollutants can be natural (e.g., volcanic ash) or primarily human-made, resulting from activities such as industrial processes, transportation, agriculture, and poor waste management
. Environmental pollution is a critical global issue affecting human health, biodiversity, and the overall well-being of the planet
