Environmental Pollution

Pollution is derived from the Latin word polluere, which means to contaminate. It refers to the undesirable changes in our surroundings, which have harmful effects on plants, animals, and human beings. Pollution is any modification in the environment caused by human activity or natural occurrences that can adversely affect life forms and property.

Environmental pollution is defined as an undesirable change in the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of any component of the environment (such as air, water, and soil). This can cause harmful effects on life forms and property. Pollution can be classified into primary and secondary pollution:

1. Primary Pollution: Effects are immediate upon release into the environment.
2. Secondary Pollution: Result from chemical interactions that occur after pollutants are released (e.g., pollutants interacting with moisture or sunlight).

Pollution can be local, regional, transboundary, or global in scope. The agent responsible for causing pollution is referred to as a pollutant.

Types of Pollutants

Pollutants can be classified as:

1. Degradable or Non-Persistent Pollutants: These can be rapidly broken down by natural processes (e.g., domestic sewage, discarded vegetables).
2. Slowly Degradable or Persistent Pollutants: These remain in the environment for long periods and can take decades to degrade (e.g., DDT).
3. Non-Degradable Pollutants: These cannot be broken down by natural processes (e.g., lead, mercury, nuclear waste).

Types of Pollution

Various types of pollution include:

• Air Pollution
• Water Pollution
• Soil Pollution
• Marine Pollution
• Thermal Pollution
• Noise Pollution