Environmental Pollution
One of the biggest problems the world is currently dealing with is environmental pollution. Environmental pollution has significantly increased during the past century as a result of the increased urbanization and industrialization that have been observed globally (“Increased Pollution”). There are undoubtedly many different types of pollution, but toxins in the soil, air, and water have the biggest negative effects on the environment.
Acid Rain and its Effects
First, acid rain can be produced when air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide dissolve with raindrops. Acid rain harms plants, causes soil and water bodies to become more acidic, and makes terrestrial habitats unsuitable for fish.
Water Pollution and its Impact
Water pollution is also associated with adverse effects on the environment. For instance, groundwater contamination from pesticides, sewage, and fertilizers encourage the growth of algae which can deplete dissolved oxygen thereby upsetting the natural ecological balance in water bodies.
Soil Pollution and its Consequences
Last, pollutants in the soil can negatively affect native plant and animal health. For example, chemical contaminants from hydrocarbons and heavy metal may elicit various adverse effects including reduced biodiversity and productivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, since these types pollution do not occur separately, the entire ecosystem is usually impacted. For instance, the use of pesticides on land may negatively affect terrestrial species of animal and plants. Similarly, when the materials are introduced into water bodies, they also influence both species. Therefore, curbing pollution in one part of the ecosystem can help address the problem in another section.
Works Cited
“Increased Pollution.” Australia State of the Environment Report, 2016, https://soe.environment.gov.au/theme/built-environment/topic/2016/increased-pollution.
