ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

The word pollution is derived from the word pollutionem meaning to defile of make dirty. The
developed and the developing countries of the world are progressing in several industries like
chemical, power nuclear energy, food, petroleum, pesticides, plastic, etc. A number of industrial
effluents and toxic gases are left in the air daily. Therefore, the environment is polluted to such
an extent that it has crossed the critical limit and life has become difficult to all organisms
including human. Nowadays, air is unfit for breathing, water is unfit for drinking and vegetables
are unfit for eating and so on.
Pollution is the undesirable change in the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the
environment which adversely affects the biotic community (plants, animals and human). It may
deteriorate our natural resources. Over population and industrialization have contributed in
various ways to the general deterioration of the environment.
Pollutants
The pollutants are the materials that cause pollution in the environment. The common pollutants
noticed in developed and developing countries are:
i. Gases: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, hydrogen suphide, ammonia,
chlorine, fluorides, etc.
ii. Metals: Lead, iron, carbon, zinc, mercury, etc.
iii. Deposited matter: Smoke, dust, sand, plastics, glasses, etc.
iv. Chemical compounds: Phosgene, detergents, aldehydes, hydrogen fluorides, etc.
vi. Poisons: Fungicides, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, other biocides, etc.
Pollutants can be classified into two basic types:
i. Non-degradable pollutants
The pollutants which do not degrade or decompose naturally and remain in the natural
atmosphere for long time are called non-degradable pollutants. Examples are aluminium cans,
mercurial salts, DDT, plastics, glasses, etc. These destroy the properties of the soil and hence
make it unsuitable for plant growth.
ii. Degradable pollutants
The pollutants that are decomposed easily by natural processes are called degradable pollutants.
They remain in the natural environment for short time. Examples are domestic sewage, fertilizers
which increase the fertility of soil.
1. Air pollution
Air pollution is the undesirable change in the physical or biotic elements of the environments
which adversely affects biotic community. It is the process to release pollutants into the
atmosphere which are harmful to human, vegetation or animals. Air pollution is one of the most
dangerous and common kinds of environment pollution. It has been reported in most industrial
towns of Nepal like Kathmandu, Biratnagar, Birgunj, etc
Sources of air pollution
Major sources of air pollution are the gaseous matters released by the burning fuel, coal and
petroleum as listed below:
Automobiles: cars, motorscycles, trunk etc.
Electrical power plants: thermal power stations and generators.
Industries: paper mills, cotton mills, chemicals plants, sugar mills, rubber mills, brick and leather
factory, etc.
Heating plants: domestic coal, burning for cooking, etc.
Air pollutants are substances present in the atmosphere in concentrations that can harm human
health, ecosystems, and the environment. These pollutants come from various sources, including
industrial processes, transportation, agriculture, and natural events like wildfires and volcanic
eruptions. Some common air pollutants and their effects include:
Particulate Matter (PM): PM consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, categorized based on
their size (PM10 and PM2.5). PM can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing
respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death.
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): NOx is produced by combustion processes, primarily from vehicles and
industrial activities. It contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone and particulate matter,
exacerbating respiratory issues and impairing lung function. NOx also contributes to acid rain,
smog, and eutrophication of water bodies.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): SO2 is mainly emitted from burning fossil fuels containing sulfur, such as
coal and oil. It can cause respiratory problems, exacerbate asthma, and contribute to the
formation of acid rain, which damages ecosystems, buildings, and infrastructure.
Ozone (O3): Ground-level ozone forms when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) react in the presence of sunlight. It can trigger asthma attacks, aggravate respiratory
conditions, and cause chest pain and coughing. Ozone also damages crops, forests, and
ecosystems.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are emitted from various sources, including vehicle
emissions, industrial processes, and household products. They contribute to the formation of
ground-level ozone and can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and nausea. Long-term
exposure to some VOCs is linked to cancer and liver damage.
Carbon Monoxide (CO): CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of
fossil fuels. It interferes with the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to symptoms such as
headaches, dizziness, and, in high concentrations, death.
Heavy Metals: Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are emitted from industrial
processes, mining, and combustion of fossil fuels. They can accumulate in the environment and
in living organisms, causing neurological damage, developmental disorders, and other health
problems.

Preventive measures or control

The following preventive measures and controlling aspects for air pollution can be applied:
i. Air pollutants should be controlled at the point of source by using electrostatic precipitator or
filter in the industries.
ii. The use of cheap fuel with higher sulphur content should be avoided. Use of disulphurized
coal should be used.
iii. Alternate sources of energy (solar energy, wind energy, electrical energy, etc.) should be used
in place of coal, wood, oil, etc.
iv. Strict check of car-exhaust should be maintained. The use of old automobiles in big cities like
Kathmandu should be strictly prohibited for which a regular monitoring is essential.
V. Strip plantation should be done everywhere on the roadside. Plants play a significant role in
keeping the atmospheric balance by consuming CO and CO, and releasing O2.
vi. Population growth rate should be controlled.
vii. Public awareness programmes about the effects of pollution should be launched.

Efforts to control and reduce air pollution include regulatory measures, technological
advancements, and promoting cleaner energy sources and transportation methods. Public
awareness and collective action are crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of air pollutants and
safeguarding human health and the environment.
Water pollution occurs when harmful substances contaminate bodies of water, including rivers,
lakes, oceans, and groundwater. These pollutants threaten aquatic ecosystems, wildlife, and
human health.
Sources of water pollution
The major sources of water pollution are grouped as follows:
1. Industrial source: Inorganic & organic effluents, poisons, etc.
ii. Domestic source: Sewage, detergents, etc.
iii. Agricultural source: Pesticides, Insecticides, fungicides, etc.
iv. Oil: from automobiles and tankers V.
V. Physical pollutants: Radioactive substances, thermal and nuclear power plants
Sources of water pollution include:

 Industrial Discharges: Factories and manufacturing plants discharge various pollutants

into water bodies, including heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and organic compounds.
 Agricultural Runoff: Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and animal waste from agricultural
activities can leach into waterways, leading to nutrient enrichment, algal blooms, and
contamination with harmful chemicals.
  Urban Runoff: Storm water runoff from urban areas carries pollutants such as oil, grease,
heavy metals, and litter into water bodies, contributing to pollution.
 Wastewater Discharges: Untreated or inadequately treated sewage and wastewater from
municipal sewage treatment plants, septic systems, and industries contain pathogens,
nutrients, and various contaminants that can degrade water quality.
 Mining Activities: Mining operations can release heavy metals, sediments, and toxic
chemicals into water bodies, contaminating aquatic habitats and posing risks to human
health.
 Oil Spills: Accidental spills from oil tankers, pipelines, and offshore drilling platforms
can release large quantities of oil into oceans and waterways, leading to devastating
environmental consequences and harming marine life.
 Plastic Pollution: Improper disposal and accumulation of plastic waste in water bodies
contribute to marine pollution, endangering marine animals and ecosystems.

Major water pollutants and their effects include:

 Pathogens: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites in contaminated water can cause waterborne
diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and gastrointestinal illnesses.
 Inorganic and organic effluents: Sulphides, sulphites and other organic residues are the
major pollutants of water released from various industries such as dairy, tanniers, paper
mills, etc. These reduce the oxygen content of water and adversely affect aquatic flora
and fauna.
 Pesticides, insecticides and fungicides: These are the poisonous chemicals which are used
by farmers in their fields to kill agricultural pests. These are washed from the fields into
the river and are taken up by many organisms through the food chain.
 Nutrients: Excessive nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers and sewage
can lead to eutrophication, causing algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and habitat
degradation, which can harm aquatic organisms and disrupt ecosystems.
 Heavy Metals: Metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic can accumulate in
aquatic organisms and bio magnify through the food chain, posing health risks to humans
and wildlife, including neurological damage, organ failure, and reproductive disorders.
 Chemical Contaminants: Industrial chemicals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals can
contaminate water sources, threatening human health and ecosystems, disrupting
hormonal balance, and causing reproductive and developmental abnormalities in aquatic
organisms.
Prevention of water pollution
Water pollution may be prevented by adapting the following ways:
i. Recycling of waste products: Different types of wastes and pollutants may be recycled. These
recycling facilities should be formulated and implemented by all industries.
ii. Cleaning and treatment of waste water:
a. Primary treatment: This treatment involves sedimentation, flotation, screening, etc. The waste
may be removed by throwing the settled suspend or gravel.
b. Secondary treatment: This method involves allowing of water to pass through a thick layer of
stone or gravel.
iii. Control of irruption at distribution of industries.
iv. Provide all cities with proper drainage. Efficient sewage collection and waste waster treatment
facilities should be properly managed.
V. The use of pesticides should be minimized.
Vi Education programmes are needed to inform the people in protection of river and use of safe
water. vii. Various legislative measures should be employed to control water pollution.
Vii. Forestation

Efforts to address water pollution involve implementing regulations, adopting pollution

prevention measures, improving wastewater treatment, promoting sustainable agricultural
practices, and raising public awareness about the importance of protecting water resources.
Collaboration among governments, industries, communities, and individuals is essential to
mitigate water pollution and safeguard water quality for present and future generations.

Major water pollutants/effluents and their effects

The following are the major pollutants of water and their effect to the aquatic living
organisms:
 ii. Domestic waste and sewage: Sewage is the liquid waste discharged from all domestic
and industrial sources. Untreated sewage is discharged into fresh water bodies. It has
been estimated that about 75% water pollution is caused by domestic waste and sewage.
It causes spreading of water-born diseases and the toxic substances in water kill useful
living organisms and destroy the biological activity.
 As the sewage contains organic matter that harbour disease causing microorganisms and
accelerates dissolved oxygen consumption for decomposition of such huge amount of
organic matter by microorganisms. This process leads to develop maximum 'biological
oxygen demand' (BOD). BOD is defined as the amount of oxygen required for the
oxidation of organic matters by microbial action. The BOD value of clean water is
usually between 1 and 2 mg/litre. It is used as an indicator of
degree of pollution.
i. Hot water. A large volume of hot water released from many industries cause serious
thermal pollution.
ii. Poison: Acids, alkalines, lead, copper, cyanides are the poisonous substances which are
released from various sources. These reduce oxygen-transporting capacity of blood in
human.
iii. Oil: Spilling and washing of automobiles release oil. The river and ocean get polluted
from oil tankers. As oil spreads over the surface of water, it decreases the oxygenation in
water so that aquatic animals are badly affected.
iv. Pesticides, insecticides and fungicides: These are the poisonous chemicals which are
used by farmers in their fields to kill agricultural pests. These are washed from the fields
into the river and are taken up by many organisms through the food chain.
V. Nitrates and phosphates: Accumulation of nitrates and phosphates in water causes
eutrophication. It is the natural process due to which organic nutrients are accumulated in
the pond or lake water causing excessive growth of microorganisms and aquatic
vegetation as bloom. It leads to the decrease in oxygen level.
3. Soil or land pollution
Land pollution is an undesirable change in physical and biotic elements of the land environment
which adversely affects plants and animals’ life. Soil or land pollutiondeals with the pollution of
soil soil and its environment and it affects the biotic community of soil. It degrades the natural
quality of soil such as soil texture, porosity, water holding capacity, etc. which ultimately reduces
its fertility. Plants and animals are badly affected.
Soil or land pollution is a problem of urban areas and industrialized countries and sites. There are
many natural and synthesis materials that do affect on physical, chemical and biological
properties of soil hence affects the productivity.

Sources of soil pollution

The major sources of soil pollution are grouped into five categories as follows:
i. Industrial source: These are inorganic & organic effluents, poisons, heavy metals like Sn, Pb,
Cu, Hg, Al, etc. These also include plastics and aluminum cans.
ii. Domestic source: These are kitchen packing and building materials, plastic bags, rubber
material, etc. which do not undergo degradation. These also include domestic sewage, detergents,
etc.
iii. Agricultural source: These are pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, fertilizers, etc.
iv. Radioactive source: These are nuclear dusts and radioactive substances released from nuclear
explosions pollute the soil.
v. Overgrazing and deforestation: These activities are responsible for the damage of soil such as
sandiness and deserts.

Major soil pollutants and their effects

i. Industries produce solid and liquid wastes which are dumped in the ground. These industrial
wastes usually consisting zinc, lead, mercury, copper, etc. cause toxicity in the soil and decrease
the quality of soil. These adversely affect the soil and useful microorganisms.
ii. The domestic wastes consist sewage, detergents, animal's refuge and solid wastes like plastics,
aluminum, etc. are also dumped in the farm. They decrease the quality of soil. These adversely
affect the soil and useful microorganisms.
iii. The maximum use of pesticides in agriculture causes soil pollution. Most of the pesticides are
accumulated in different layers of soil by leaching process. These pesticides kill both harmful as
well as useful organisms.
iv. Excess concentration of chemical fertilizers pollutes soil. Increase in the concentration of
soluble salts cause salination. Similarly, acidification and alkalination are caused due to excess
concentration of acid and alkali in the soil respectively. These degrade the quality and fertility of
soil.
V. Overgrazing and deforestation may lead to desert and sandiness. Soil loses its fertility and
ultimately plant productivity is reduced.

Prevention of soil pollution

Soil pollution may be prevented by the following ways:
i. The use of pesticides and fertilizers should be minimized or controlled.
ii. Various types of solid wastes should be recycled or converted in too compost
manures. The solid wastes like plastics, papers, glasses etc, should be recycled.
iii. Water logging in the field should be prevented.
iv. Agriculture lands should not be used as dumping places. During sites should be
settled far away.
v. V. Animal's refuge can be used for the production of biogas to use in various domestic
and industrial uses.

Pesticides:
Pesticides are the poisonous chemicals used by human to control or destroy the harmful
organisms like pests. The use of pesticides is mainly associated with agriculture and horticulture.
It is also widely used for domestic purposes to control human and animal disease vectors or pests
(as malaria). The pests may be insects, nematodes, rodents, weeds, fungi, etc and thus pesticides
are insecticides, nematocides, rodenticides, herbicides, and fungicides etc, respectively used to
destroy respective types of pests.

Types of pesticides:
Pesticides may be natural (plant origin) or synthetic (prepared in the industries). Pesticides are
categorized as follows:
i. Organochlorides: The pesticides which contain organic chlorides are DDT, BHC, aldrin,
dieldrin, chlordane, toxaphene, etc.
ii. Organophosphates: The pesticides which contain organic phosphates like parathion,
malathion, diazion, phenothate guthion, etc,
iii. Carbamates: These pesticides are pyrethrins, baygon, temik, zectran, etc.
iv. Pyrethroids: Pesticides of plant origin are pyrethroids from Chrysanthemum flower, nicotine
from tobacco leaf and other like neem plant, Artemisia leaf, etc.
Insecticides and rodenticides are Zinc phosphide, Arsenic compounds, Thallium sulphate, etc.
Nematicides are aliphatic halogen compounds, organophosphates and carbamates. Herbicides are
phenoxy acids (2-4D and 2,4,5-T), Paraquat, Diquat and Triazoles. Fungicides are HCN,
ethylene oxide, acetaldehyde and methyl bromide.
Modes of action
Insecticides are either nervous or respiratory poisons. Organochlorides are nervous poisons. They
enter the insect's body either through the integument (cuticle) or spiracles. If the pesticides are in
solution
or absorbed form, they are taken orally and reached to the nerve fibres where they inhibit NA",
Kand Mg Aostly affect tosine triphosphate enzyme) activity in the nerve endings (synapsis) of
insects. The poisons mostly affect the sensory or motor nerve fibres as well as motor cortex, thus
results in nerve paralysis and ultimately the insect pests die.
Some pesticides are respiratory poisons. They enter through spiracles. They cause nausea,
vomiting and nervousness leading to death due to respiratory arrest.
Herries and the photolysis of water (Photosynthesis (II) and evolution of O, in the process,
regulates growth and also affects the translocation of organic solutes.

Effects of pesticides
Although pesticides save about 10% of the world food supply jom the pests, these cause serious
environmental and health treats to various organisms. Organochlorides have longer life-time
anger residual property), therefore, persist and accumulate in the environment. These pesticides
are generally non-biodegradables, therefore, get incorporated into the food chain and ultimately
deposited the fatty tissue of different animals including human.

8 side effects of pesticides

Skin irritation
Endocrine complications
Infertility and sterility
Respiratory disorders
Brain damage
Organ failure
Birth defects
Kills broad spectrum of organisms
Cancer
i. Polluting the environment
Although pesticides save 10% of the world food supply from the pests, these cause serious
environmental and health threats to various organisms. Organochlorides have longer life-
time (longer residual property), therefore, persist and accumulate in the environment. These
pesticides are generally non-biodegradables, therefore, get incorporated into the food chain
and ultimately deposited in the fatty tissue of different animals including human.
ii. Kills broad spectrum of organisms
The use of pesticides in farms, gardens and houses may also kill the useful organisms
such as natural enemies (predators, parasites and pathogens) of the pests as well as
earthworm and detrivores in the soil. Nitrogen fixing bacteria are also destroyed by
the use of pesticides.
iii. Affect the biology of organisms
might be the major cause of decline of reproduction in some animals. Some pesticides
like DDT interfere the Ca-metabolism. Therefore, Ca-deficiency symptoms like thinning
of egg-shells of birds, weakening of bones, etc. are observed. Hormonal imbalance is also
resulted which causes delayed ovulation and inhibition of gonad development.
iv. Results development of resistance
Due to continuous use of pesticides, pests develop resistance or immunity against
pesticides, e.g. mosquito and housefly against DDT, BHC. Hence, farmers have to use
higher dose of pesticides to protect the crops of the same area hence environmental
pollution occurs.
vi. Threats to wildlife and human health
Human is more prone to be affected by pesticides as they are more exposed to chemicals
in the farms, factories and at homes, etc. They can inhale or ingest the chemicals. These
pesticides also harm birds, livestock, wildlife, fishes as well as soil and aquatic
organisms. Nitrogen fixing bacteria in the roots may also be harmed.
Alternatives of pesticides
i. Biological control: The biological control of pests has traditionally meant
regulation by natural enemies such as predators, parasites and pathogens. It
represents a form of population management
preventing unchecked exponential growth of pest species.
ii. Cultural control: It is the method to control plant pests by the rotation of crop.

Integrated pest management (IPM)

Integrated pest management is the control and management of pest population which
combines and integrates biological and chemical control in a sensitive way. It aims to
keep pest population below the level economic injury, or even prevent their development
while carrying minimum harm and disruption to a crop.