ENVIRONMENT

POLLUTION AND GLOBAL

CLIMATIC CHANGE
Pollution
Pollution, also called environmental pollution, the addition
of any substance (solid, liquid, or gas) or any form of
energy(such as heat, sound, or radioactivity) to the
environment at a rate faster than it can be dispersed,
diluted, decomposed, recycled, or stored in some
harmless form
 Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that cause
adverse change.
Pollution can take the form of chemical substances or energy, such as noise, heat or light.
Pollutants, the components of pollution, can be either foreign substances/energies or
naturally occurring contaminants.

Although environmental pollution can be caused by natural events such as forest fires and
active volcanoes, use of the word pollution generally implies that the contaminants have an
anthropogenic source—that is, a source created by human activities.
Pollution has accompanied humankind ever since groups of people first congregated and
remained for a long time in any one place.
Effects of Environmental Pollution:

It has been seen that pollutants originate at a point and are then transported to other places
by the action of wind or water.
Some pollutants are dumped into the soil by human beings.
This leads to air, water and soil pollution respectively.

If the soil is polluted, the useful microorganisms in it will die and the fertility of the soil will
be lost.
The production of crops will decrease.
If the soil is not fertile; it will have a harmful impact on human society.
Similarly, if water is polluted then we have to purify it before drinking.
Purification needs resources.

Lastly, if the air is polluted, respiration will become an issue and the survival of life will be
under threat. Air pollution leads to many respiratory diseases and harms the human body.
Classification of
pollutants

Environment pollution is of many types like air

pollution, water pollution, noise pollution, soil
pollution, marine pollution, etc. In developing
countries major source of environment pollutions are
air pollution, water pollution and soil pollution.
On the Basis of Nature

Depending upon the nature of the pollutants and their interaction with
environment process, the pollution caused by different agents can be
classified into the following categories:

Solid pollutants.
Liquid pollutants
Gaseous pollutants
Pollution from Waste without Weight: This type of pollution is also
known as pollution by energy waste; Wastes without weight may be of
the following types:
Radio-active Substance: Despite of all possible precautions in the
functioning and maintenance of nuclear reactors, it is seen that
minute quantity of radio-active waste escapes out into the
environment.
Heat
Noise
On the Basis of Decomposition

These can be rapidly broken down by natural processes.

Degradable or non-
persistent pollutants Eg: domestic sewage, discarded vegetables, etc.

Slowly degradable or Pollutants that remain in the environment for many years in an
persistent pollutants unchanged condition and take de- cades or longer to degrade.
Eg: DDT and most plastics.

These cannot be degraded by natural processes. Once they are

Non-degradable released into the environment they are difficult to eradicate
pollutants and continue to accumulate.
Eg: toxic elements like lead or mercury.
Biotransformation

Biotransformation is the biochemical modification of one chemical

compound or a mixture of chemical compounds.

Biotransformation of various pollutants is a sustainable way to clean

up contaminated environments.

These bioremediation and biotransformation methods harness the

naturally occurring, microbial catabolic diversity to degrade,
transform or accumulate a huge range of compounds including
hydrocarbons (e.g. oil), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pharmaceutical substances,
radionuclides and metals.
Biotransformation

Biological processes play a major role in the removal of

contaminants and pollutants from the environment.

Some microorganisms possess an astonishing catabolic versatility

to degrade or transform such compounds.

Also there is other approach of biotransformation called enzymatic

biotransformation.

Extensive efforts are made to thoroughly investigate the metabolism

of compounds that can alter pharmacokinetic parameters like
bioavailability, drugs or pollutants interactions, and elimination in
living organisms.
Oil Biodegradation

Petroleum oil is toxic for most life forms and episodic

and chronic pollution of the environment by oil causes
major ecological perturbations.

Marine environments are especially vulnerable since oil

spills of coastal regions and the open sea are poorly
containable and mitigation is difficult.

In addition to pollution through human activities,

millions of tons of petroleum enter the marine
environment every year from natural seepages.
Oil Biodegradation

Despite its toxicity, a considerable

fraction of petroleum oil entering
marine systems is eliminated by
the hydrocarbon-degrading
activities of microbial
communities, like
hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria
(HCB).

Alcanivorax borkumensis, a
paradigm of HCB and probably the
most important global oil
degrader, was the first to be
subjected to a functional
genomic analysis.
This analysis has yielded important new insights into its capacity for

(i) n-alkane degradation including metabolism, biosurfactant

production and biofilm formation,

(ii) scavenging of nutrients and cofactors in the oligotrophic marine

environment, as well as

(iii) coping with various habitat-specific stresses.

The understanding thereby gained constitutes a significant advance in

efforts towards the design of new knowledge-based strategies for
the mitigation of ecological damage caused by oil pollution of marine
habitats. HCB also have potential biotechnological applications in the
areas of bioplastics and biocatalysis.
The process of accumulating toxic chemicals People are at the top of this food chain. When
such as pollutants, pesticides and other you eat a lot of fish that have chemicals in
toxins directly into the human body either them, those chemicals can build up in your
through the air, water, food intake, or directly body, too. While the chemicals in fish won’t
through the skin is termed Bioaccumulation. As make you sick right away, they could cause
this toxic compound accumulates within the health problems someday.
human body, it increases the risk of chronic
poisoning and other severe health disorders.
Biomagnification or biological magnification
is the process of accumulation of certain
chemicals in living organisms to a
concentration higher than that occurring in
the inorganic, non-living environment.

The contaminants might be heavy metals

such as mercury, arsenic, and
pesticides such as polychlorinated
biphenyls and DDT.

These substances are taken up by the

organisms through the food they
consume. When the organisms in the
higher food chain feed on the organisms
in the lower food chain containing these
toxins, these toxins get accumulated in
the higher organisms.
Causes:

Agriculture: pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers and fungicides are very toxic and are
released into the soil, rivers, lakes, and seas. These substances contain small
amounts of heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, copper, lead and cadmium.
These cause health issues in aquatic organisms and humans.

Organic Contaminants: Manures and biosolids are processed industrially and

contain contaminants like pharmaceuticals and personal care products.

Industrial Activities: The industries and factories release toxic substances that are
released into the soil, lakes, oceans, and rivers. The gaseous emissions pollute the
environment which enters into the food chain leading to biomagnification.

Mining Activities in the Ocean: Mining activities are carried out in the deep sea to
extract metal like zinc, aluminium, cobalt, silver and gold. The mining process
generates a large amount of selenium and sulphide, which deposits in water and
destroys the oceans and coastal regions.

The level of toxicity is increased. These toxic substances are absorbed by the aquatic
organisms higher in the food chain.
 Biomagnification Bioaccumulation

Definition

An increased concentration of a toxic chemical, the Accumulation of a toxic chemical in the tissue
higher an animal is on the food chain. of a particular organism.

Causes

An increase in the level as one moves higher in the An increase in the concentration of a
food chain. substance inside an organism

Level of concentration of pollutant

An increase in the concentration of pollutants as they An increase in the concentration of a pollutant

move from one trophic level to the next. in an organism.

Food Chain

Biomagnification takes place between two given Bioaccumulation takes place or occurs within
trophic levels. a given trophic level

Example

The transfer of pollutants and other absorbed toxins

from the microscopic aquatic organisms into the Buildup or accumulation of mercury in fishes
small fish, which are later consumed by the larger and other aquatic animals.
fish and other aquatic animals.
AIR POLLUTION
Air pollution is define as the composition of air is disturbed due to presence
of gas, smoke, dust, chemical particulate etc., which are injurious to human
being, plant and animal.

Types of Air pollution

i) Primary pollutant: Pollutants that are emitted directly from the human
or natural activities are known as primary pollutant. For example, CO2,
SO2, NOx, particulate matter, hydrocarbons etc.

ii) Secondary pollutant: when primary pollutants are react with

atmospheric moisture content then a new category of pollutants is form,
known as secondary pollutant. For example, carbonic acid, nitric acid,
sulphuric acid etc.
WHAT IS AIR
QUALITY?

When air quality is good, the air is clear and contains only
small amounts of solid particle and chemical pollutants.

Poor air quality, which contains high levels of pollutants, is

often hazy and dangerous to health and the environment.

Air quality is described according to the Air Quality Index (AQI),

which is based on the concentration of pollutants present in
the air at a particular location.
AIR QUALITY
INDEX (AQI)
Why Does Air Quality Change?

Because air is always moving, air quality can change from day to day, or
even from one hour to the next. For a specific location, the air quality is a
direct result of both how air moves through the area and how people are
influencing the air

Humans Affect Air Quality as most pollutants come from human

activity. Vehicle exhaust, smoke from coal-burning power plants, and
toxic gases from industry are examples of human-made air pollutants.

Winds Affect Air Quality as winds move air pollution around. For
example, a coastal area with an inland mountain range may have
more air pollution during the day when sea breezes push pollutants
over the land, and lower air pollution in the evenings because the
direction of the breeze reverses and pushes air pollution out over
the ocean.
Temperature Affects Air Quality because when the air temperature
is cooler, exhaust pollutants can be trapped close to the surface
beneath a layer of dense, cold air. In summer months, heated air
rises and disperses pollutants from the Earth’s surface through the
upper troposphere

Air pollution negatively impacts the land and oceans, as well as the air.
Good air quality is critical for maintaining he
 Ambient Air Quality Standards in India
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981 was enacted by
the Central Government with the objective of arresting the deterioration
of air quality.

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981 describes the main
functions of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) as follows
 To advise the Central Government on any matter concerning the
improvement of the quality the air and the prevention, control and
abatement of air pollution.

To plan and cause to be executed a nation-wide programme for the

prevention, control and abatement of air pollution.

To provide technical assistance and guidance to the State Pollution

Control Board.

To carry out and sponsor investigations and research related to

prevention, control and abatement of air pollution.

To collect, compile and publish technical and statistical data related

to air pollution

To lay down and annul standards for the quality of air

The mandate provided to the CPCB under the Air (Prevention and Control
of Pollution) Act empowers it to set standards for the quality of air.
Pollutants
Particulate matter (PM) : is a common proxy indicator for air pollution.
Particulates are small pieces of solid material (for example, smoke particles from
fires, bits of asbestos, dust particles and ash from industries) dispersed into the
atmosphere. The effects of particulates range from soot to the carcinogenic
(cancer causing) effects of asbestos, dust particles and ash from industrial plants
that are dispersed into the atmosphere.

Carbon monoxide (CO) : colourless, odourless and tasteless toxic gas produced
by the incomplete combustion of carbonaceous fuels such as wood, petrol,
charcoal, natural gas and kerosene.

Ozone (O3) : Ozone at ground level – not to be confused with the ozone layer in
the upper atmosphere – is one of the major constituents of photochemical smog
and it is formed through the reaction with gases in the presence of sunlight.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) : NO2 is a gas that is commonly released from the
combustion of fuels in the transportation and industrial sectors.

Sulfur dioxide (SO2): SO2 is a colourless gas with a sharp odour. It is produced
from the burning of fossil fuels (coal and oil) and the smelting of mineral ores that
contain sulfur.
Difference between NAAQS and AQI

The National Air Quality Index (AQI) was launched in 2014 to measure the
air quality and rate it in six categories (ranging from good to severe).
The NAAQS was more technical in nature and was not easy for the
common man to comprehend. It was with the idea of making air quality
levels more understandable to the general public that the AQI was
formulated.
The AQI was launched keeping in mind the idea of ‘One Number-One
Colour-One Description’.
Another difference between both standards is that while the NAAQS 2009
considers 12 pollutants, the AQI covers 8 major pollutants.
AQI includes all the NAAQS pollutants except benzene, benzopyrene,
arsenic and nickel.
The measurement of air quality for AQI is based on the eight pollutants for
which short-term (up to 24-hourly averaging period) National Ambient Air
Quality Standards are prescribed and the worst reading in these pollutants
represents the AQI for that city.

Note:- Carbon dioxide is not considered an air pollutant in both AQI and NAAQS.
CONTROL MEASURES

Putting a greater emphasis on pollution prevention rather than control

Reducing the use of fossil fuels
Improving the quality of vehicular fuel
Increasing the use of renewable energy
Smog & Soot

These are the two most prevalent types of air pollution.

Smog (sometimes referred to as ground-level ozone) occurs when

emissions from combusting fossil fuels react with sunlight.
Soot (also known as particulate matter) is made up of tiny particles of
chemicals, soil, smoke, dust, or allergens—in the form of either gas or
solids—that are carried in the air.

The sources of smog and soot are similar. “Both come from cars and
trucks, factories, power plants, incinerators, engines, generally
anything that combusts fossil fuels such as coal, gas, or natural gas,”
Smog & Soot

Smog can irritate the eyes and

throat and also damage the lungs,
especially those of children, senior
citizens, and people who work or
exercise outdoors.

It’s even worse for people who have

asthma or allergies: these extra
pollutants can intensify their
symptoms and trigger asthma attacks

The tiniest airborne particles in soot,

whether gaseous or solid, are
especially dangerous because they
can penetrate the lungs and
bloodstream and worsen
bronchitis, lead to heart attacks,
and even hasten death.
INDOOR AIR
POLLUTION

Indoor air pollution is dust, dirt, or gases in the air inside buildings such as your
home or workplace that could be harmful to breathe in. Poor indoor air quality
has been linked to lung diseases like asthma, COPD and lung cancer. It has also
been linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Types of air pollution include:

particulate matter (pm) – tiny particles of dust and dirt in the air, such as soot
and dust mites
gases – for example carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulphur dioxide
Indoor air pollution can be caused by anything from gas stoves and wood
burners, to damp and mould.
Indoor air pollution is caused by burning solid fuel sources – such as
firewood, crop waste, and dung – for cooking and heating.

The burning of such fuels, particularly in poor households, results in air

pollution that leads to respiratory diseases which can result in
premature death.

The WHO calls indoor air pollution “the world’s largest single
environmental health risk.

Each year, 3.2 million people die prematurely from illnesses

attributable to the household air pollution caused by the incomplete
combustion of solid fuels and kerosene used for cooking.

Particulate matter and other pollutants in household air pollution

inflame the airways and lungs, impair immune response and reduce
the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
There are many sources of indoor air pollution. These can include:
Fuel-burning combustion appliances

Tobacco products

Building materials and furnishings as diverse as:

Deteriorated asbestos-containing insulation
Newly installed flooring, upholstery or carpet
Cabinetry or furniture made of certain pressed wood products

Products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care, or

hobbies

Central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices

Excess moisture

Outdoor sources such as:

Radon
Pesticides
Outdoor air pollution.
Immediate Effects

Some health effects may show up shortly after a single exposure or

repeated exposures to a pollutant.

These include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches,

dizziness, and fatigue. Such immediate effects are usually short-term and
treatable.

Sometimes the treatment is simply eliminating the person's exposure to the

source of the pollution, if it can be identified.

Soon after exposure to some indoor air pollutants, symptoms of some

diseases such as asthma may show up, be aggravated or worsened.

The likelihood of immediate reactions to indoor air pollutants depends on

several factors including age and preexisting medical conditions.

Certain immediate effects are similar to those from colds or other viral
diseases, so it is often difficult to determine if the symptoms are a result of
exposure to indoor air pollution.
Long term Effects

Other health effects may show up either years after exposure has occurred
or only after long or repeated periods of exposure.

These effects, which include some respiratory diseases, heart disease and
cancer, can be severely debilitating or fatal.

It is prudent to try to improve the indoor air quality in your home even if
symptoms are not noticeable.

People also react very differently to exposure to indoor air pollutants. Further
research is needed to better understand which health effects occur after
exposure to the average pollutant concentrations found in homes and which
occurs from the higher concentrations that occur for short periods of time.
Long term Effects

Other health effects may show up either years after exposure has occurred
or only after long or repeated periods of exposure.

These effects, which include some respiratory diseases, heart disease and
cancer, can be severely debilitating or fatal.

It is prudent to try to improve the indoor air quality in your home even if
symptoms are not noticeable.

People also react very differently to exposure to indoor air pollutants. Further
research is needed to better understand which health effects occur after
exposure to the average pollutant concentrations found in homes and which
occurs from the higher concentrations that occur for short periods of time.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES

The less gasoline we burn, the better we’re doing to reduce air pollution and
harmful effects of climate change.

Make good choices about transportation. When you can, walk, ride a bike,
or take public transportation. For driving, choose a car that gets better miles
per gallon of gas, or choose an electric car.

You can also investigate your power provider options—you may be able to
request that your electricity be supplied by wind or solar.

Buying your food locally cuts down on the fossil fuels burned in trucking or
flying food in from across the country.

And most important, Support leaders who push for clean air and water
and responsible steps on climate change
CONTROL MEASURES

Air pollution can be controlled by two fundamental approaches: preventive

techniques and effluent control.

Proper equipment such as scrubbers, closed collection recovery systems, dry

and wet collectors, filters, electrostatic precipitators, etc. can be used to
remove pollutants from flue gases, and industries should be located in places
that minimize pollution.

Substitution of raw material that causes more pollution with those that cause
less pollution can also be done
EFFECT ON approximately 11% of lung cancer deaths in adults
are attributable to exposure to carcinogens from
HUMAN household air pollution caused by using kerosene
or solid fuels like wood, charcoal or coal for
HEALTH household energy needs.
lung cancer
5.9%

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ischaemic heart disease

18.8% 31.7%
23% of all deaths from chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults in low- 12% of all deaths due to
and middle-income countries are due to ischaemic heart disease,
exposure to household air pollution; accounting for over a million
premature deaths annually, can
be attributed to exposure to
household air pollution;

lower respiratory infection

20.8%

exposure to household air pollution almost approximately 12% of all deaths

stroke
doubles the risk for childhood LRI and is 22.8% due to stroke can be attributed
responsible for 44% of all pneumonia to the daily exposure to
deaths in children less than 5 years old. household air pollution arising
Household air pollution is a risk for acute from using solid fuels and
lower respiratory infections in adults and kerosene at home
contributes to 22% of all adult deaths
due to pneumonia;
WATER
POLLUTION

Water pollution is referred as a presence

of foreign substances or impurities which
can contribute to health hazards by
lowering water qualities and making it
unfit for use.
Sources of water pollution

Main sources of water pollution are

Pollution due to decaying of plants ,animals and organic matter in water
bodies
Addition of soil-silt washings, insecticides, herbicide and fungicides are
agricultural sources can be water pollution.
Ore washing, inert suspended solid and soluble toxic materials.
Sewage obtained from domestic promises, institutions and industrial
buildings are main sources of pollution of water in cities.
Industrial Effluents are one of the important agents of water pollution.
Accidental spillage of chemical or petroleum products also contributes
towards water pollution.
Ground water pollution with arsenic, fluorides and nitrites which are
poisonous in nature are posing serious health problems.

Major point sources of water pollution are industries, power plants,

underground coalmines, offshore oil wells etc.
Ground water pollution

Groundwater contamination occurs when man-made products such as

gasoline, oil, road salts and chemicals get into the groundwater and
cause it to become unsafe and unfit for human use.

Materials from the land’s surface can move through the soil and end up
in the groundwater.

For example, pesticides and fertilizers can find their way into
groundwater supplies over time. Road salt, toxic substances from
mining sites, and used motor oil also may seep into groundwater. In
addition, it is possible for untreated waste from septic tanks and toxic
chemicals from underground storage tanks and leaky landfills to
contaminate groundwater.
Causes of ground water pollution

1. Natural Sources

Naturally occurring substances found in the soil and rocks can be dissolved in
water, causing contamination.
These substances are sulfates, iron, radionuclides, fluorides, manganese,
chlorides, and arsenic.
Others, such as the decaying materials in the soil, may seep into
underground water and move with it as particles.

2. Septic Systems

Across the world, septic systems are the main cause of pollution of
underground water. The pollutants are outflow from privies, septic tanks,
and cesspools.
This huge number of users relying on the system makes it one of the main
pollutants.
Additionally, improperly designed and leaking septic systems release
contaminants such as nitrates, oils, bacteria, chemicals, detergents, and
viruses into underground water.
Causes of ground water pollution

3. Hazardous Waste Disposal

Hazardous wastes such as photographic chemicals, motor oil, cooking oil,

paint thinners, medicines, swimming pool chemicals, paints, and garden
chemicals should not be disposed of into septic tanks or directly into the
environment as they cause serious contamination.
These chemicals should be disposed of with the help of a licensed hazardous
waste handler.

4. Petroleum Products

Petroleum storage tanks are either located underground or above ground.

Also, the transportation of petroleum products is mainly done
underground using pipelines.
Leakages from these substances can lead to contamination of water.
The chemicals spilled become diluted with water and seep into the ground
where they may cause groundwater contamination.
5. Landfills

Landfills are the places that our garbage is taken to be buried.

Landfills are supposed to have a protective bottom layer to prevent
contaminants from getting into the water.
However, if there is no layer or it is cracked, contaminants from the landfill
(car battery acid, paint, household cleaners, etc.) can make their way down
into the groundwater.

6. Atmospheric Contaminants
Since groundwater is part of the hydrologic cycle, contaminants in other parts
of the cycle, such as the atmosphere or bodies of surface water, can eventually
be transferred into our groundwater supplies.

Drinking contaminated groundwater can have serious health effects. Diseases such as
hepatitis and dysentery may be caused by contamination from septic tank waste.
Poisoning may be caused by toxins that have leached into well water supplies.
Wildlife can also be harmed by contaminated groundwater. Other long term effects
such as certain types of cancer may also result from exposure to polluted water.
Marine water pollution

Marine pollution has been an ever-present problem since the advent of

large-scale agricultural activity and industrialization.

However, significant laws and regulations at an international level to tackle

the problem came only in the mid-twentieth century. During United
Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea in the early 1950s, the various
stakeholders come together to deliberate and formulate laws pertaining to
marine pollution.

Till mid-twentieth century the majority of the scientists maintained that

oceans were vast enough to be able to dilute the amount of pollution
being drained into them, thus, considering pollution harmless to the
marine life.
Causes of Marine Pollution

The marine environment becomes polluted and contaminated through various

sources and forms.

Major sources of marine pollution are the inflow of chemicals, solid waste,
discharge of radioactive elements, industrial and agricultural effluents, man-
made sedimentation, oil spills, and many such factors.

The majority portion of the marine pollution comes from the land that
contributes to 80 percent of the marine pollution, air pollution also carries
pesticides from farms and dust into the marine waters.

Air and land pollution is a major contributor to the growing marine pollution that
is not only hampering the aquatic ecology but also affecting the life on land.

The non-point sources like wind-blown debris, agricultural runoff, and dust
become the major source of pollution. Apart from these, factors like land runoff,
direct discharge, atmospheric pollution, pollution caused by ships, and deep sea
mining of natural resources contribute heavily.
Types of Marine Pollution

The marine environment becomes polluted and contaminated through various

sources and forms.

Major sources of marine pollution are the inflow of chemicals, solid waste,
discharge of radioactive elements, industrial and agricultural effluents, man-
made sedimentation, oil spills, and many such factors.

The majority portion of the marine pollution comes from the land that
contributes to 80 percent of the marine pollution, air pollution also carries
pesticides from farms and dust into the marine waters.

Air and land pollution is a major contributor to the growing marine pollution that
is not only hampering the aquatic ecology but also affecting the life on land.

The non-point sources like wind-blown debris, agricultural runoff, and dust
become the major source of pollution. Apart from these, factors like land runoff,
direct discharge, atmospheric pollution, pollution caused by ships, and deep sea
mining of natural resources contribute heavily.
 When there is an excess of chemical nutrients mainly nitrates and phosphates in the water, it
leads to eutrophication or nutrient pollution. Eutrophication decreases the level of oxygen,
reduces the quality of water, makes the water inhabitable for fish, affects the breeding process
within the marine life and increases the primary productivity of the marine ecosystem.

Acidification Eutrophication Toxins

Oceans act as a natural reservoir for

absorbing the carbon dioxide from the There are persistent toxins that do
Earth’s atmosphere. But, due to rising level not get dissolved or disintegrate with
of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the the marine ecosystem rapidly. Toxins
oceans across the world are becoming such as pesticides, DDT, PCBs, furans,
acidic in nature, as a consequence, it TBT, radioactive waste, phenols, and
leads to acidification of oceans. dioxins get accumulated in the tissue
Researches and scientists have not been cells of the marine lifeforms and lead
able to uncover the potential damage MARINE WATER to bioaccumulation hampering the
life underwater and sometimes leads
ocean acidification may have on the Earth’s
atmosphere. But, there is a strong concern
POLLUTION to a mutation in aquatic life forms.
that acidification might lead to CAUSES
dissolution of calcium carbonate
structures, that can affect the shell
formation in shellfish and also the
corals.

Plastic Ships

The ever-growing dependence of human population on plastic Ships can pollute waterways and oceans in many ways. Oil spills
has filled the oceans and the land, it consists of 80 percent of can have devastating effects. In addition to being toxic to marine
the debris found in the oceans. Plastic dumped and found in the life, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), found in crude
oceans are dangerous for the marine life forms and wildlife, oil, are very difficult to clean up, and last for years in the
as sometimes it strangles and chokes them to death. The rising sediment and marine environment. Discharge of cargo residues
levels of plastic dumps found in the oceans are suffocating, from bulk carriers can pollute ports, waterways, and oceans.
ingesting, and entangling the life underwater as well as above
it.
Effects of Marine Pollution

The contamination of water by excessive nutrients is known as nutrient

pollution, a type of water pollution that affects the life under water.

When excess nutrients like nitrates or phosphates get dissolved with the water it
causes the eutrophication of surface waters, as it stimulates the growth of algae
due to excess nutrients.

Most of Benthic animals and plankton are either filter feeders or deposit feeders
take up the tiny particles that adhere to potentially toxic chemicals.

In the ocean food chains, such toxins get concentrated upward. This makes
estuaries anoxic as many particles combine chemically depletive of oxygen.

When the marine ecosystem absorbs the pesticides, they are incorporated into
the food webs of the marine ecosystem.

After getting dissolved in the marine food webs, these harmful pesticides causes
mutations, and also results in diseases, which can damage the entire food web
and cause harm to the humans.
Effects of Marine Pollution

When toxic metals are dumped or flown into the oceans through drains, it
engulfs within the marine food webs.

It affects the biochemistry, reproduction process, can affect the tissue matter

These can cause a change to tissue matter, biochemistry, behavior,

reproduction, and suppress and alter the marine life’s growth.

Marine toxins can be transferred to several animals feeding on the fish or

fish hydrolysate as a meal, toxins are then transferred to dairy products and
meat of these affected land animals.
Prevention of Marine Pollution

Stop using plastic and littering garbage as they not only choke up the drains but
also releases into the oceans.

Ensure that chemicals mentioned above are not used anywhere near the
streams of water and try cutting down on the usage of such chemicals.

For farmers, they need to switch from chemical fertilizers and pesticides and
move towards the usage of organic farming methods.

Use public transport and reduce the carbon footprint by taking small and
substantial measures that will not help in reducing the pollution from the
environment but will ensure a safe and healthy future for the upcoming
generations.

Prevent from any oil or chemical spill in the oceans and if in case there is an oil
or chemical spill near you volunteer and help in cleaning out the ocean water.

Volunteer or initiate beach clean up activities and spread awareness about the
same in the nearby vicinity.
Oil Spillage

oil spill, leakage of petroleum onto the surface of a large body of water.
The costs of oil spills are considerable in both economic and ecological terms.
Oil on ocean surfaces is harmful to many forms of aquatic life because it prevents
sufficient amounts of sunlight from penetrating the surface, and it also reduces
the level of dissolved oxygen.
Crude oil ruins the insulating and waterproofing properties of feathers and
fur, and thus oil-coated birds and marine mammals may die from hypothermia.
Moreover, ingested oil can be toxic to affected animals, and damage to their
habitat and reproductive rate may slow the long-term recovery of animal
populations from the short-term damage caused by the spill itself.
Damage to plant life can be considerable as well; saltwater marshes and
mangroves are two notable shore ecosystems that frequently suffer from oil
spills.
If beaches and populated shorelines are fouled, tourism and commerce may be
severely affected.
Fishing activities will be suspended.
Oil Spillage

oil spill, leakage of petroleum onto the surface of a large body of water.
The costs of oil spills are considerable in both economic and ecological terms.
Oil on ocean surfaces is harmful to many forms of aquatic life because it prevents
sufficient amounts of sunlight from penetrating the surface, and it also reduces
the level of dissolved oxygen.
Crude oil ruins the insulating and waterproofing properties of feathers and
fur, and thus oil-coated birds and marine mammals may die from hypothermia.
Moreover, ingested oil can be toxic to affected animals, and damage to their
habitat and reproductive rate may slow the long-term recovery of animal
populations from the short-term damage caused by the spill itself.
Damage to plant life can be considerable as well; saltwater marshes and
mangroves are two notable shore ecosystems that frequently suffer from oil
spills.
If beaches and populated shorelines are fouled, tourism and commerce may be
severely affected.
Fishing activities will be suspended.
Oil-spill cleanup

As yet, no thoroughly satisfactory method has been developed for cleaning up

major oil spills, though the spectacular spills of the last decades of the 20th century
called forth great improvements in technology and in the management of
coordinated responses.
Essentially, responses to oil spills seek to contain the oil and remove enough of it
so that economic activity can resume and the natural recovery processes of the
marine environment can take over.
Floating booms can be placed around the source of the spill or at entrances to
channels and harbours to reduce the spreading of an oil slick over the sea surface.
Skimming, a technique that, like the use of booms, is most effective in calm waters,
involves various mechanisms that physically separate the oil from the water and
place the oil into collection tanks.
Another approach is to use various sorbents (e.g., straw, volcanic ash, and shavings
of polyester-derived plastic) that absorb the oil from the water.
Where appropriate, chemical surfactants and solvents may be spread over a slick
in order to accelerate its natural dispersion into the sea.
Onshore removal of oil that has penetrated sandy beaches and coated rocky shores
is a laborious affair, frequently involving small armies of workers wielding hand
tools or operating heavy construction-type equipment to scrape up
contaminated debris and haul it away.
Water Quality Parameters

The quality of the water you consume or use in municipal or industrial

processes must meet specific parameters.

For instance, the EPA has set legal limits on more than 90 different
contaminants that can be found in water.

These limits are necessary to ensure that drinking water remains free
from contaminants that could cause health issues or the
development of waterborne diseases.
 Additional reading
https://sensorex.com/2021/09/20/three-main-types-of-water-quality-
parameters-explained/
Dissolved Oxygen Temperature

It is the amount of oxygen Temperature is a measure of the

dissolved in water. Most average energy (kinetic) of water
aquatic organisms need oxygen molecules. It is measured on a linear
to survive and grow. scale of degrees Celsius or degrees
Some species require high Fahrenheit.
DO such as trout and
stoneflies. It is one of the most important water
Other species, like catfish, quality parameters. Temperature affects
worms and dragonflies, do not water chemistry and the functions of
require high DO. aquatic organisms. It influences the:
amount of oxygen that can be
If there is not enough oxygen in dissolved in water,
the water, the following may rate of photosynthesis by algae and
happen: other aquatic plants,
Death of adults and juveniles metabolic rates of organisms,
Reduction in growth sensitivity of organisms to toxic
Failure of eggs/larvae to wastes, parasites and diseases, and
survive timing of reproduction, migration, and
Change of species present in a aestivation of aquatic organisms..
given waterbody.
pH Turbidity

pH is a measure of how acidic or Turbidity is a measure of the amount of

basic (alkaline) the water is. suspended particles in the water. Algae,
suspended sediment, and organic matter
The majority of aquatic plants particles can cloud the water making it
and animals are able to live in more turbid.
water with a specific pH, which
means that slight changes Suspended particles diffuse sunlight and
could worsen quality of life absorb heat. This can increase
Slightly acidic water can temperature and reduce light available
irritate fish gills, damage for algal photosynthesis. If the turbidity
membranes, and reduce the is caused by suspended sediment, it can
number of hatched fish eggs be an indicator of erosion, either natural
Water with extremely high or or man-made. Suspended sediments
extremely low pH is fatal to can clog the gills of fish. Once the
aquatic plants and animals sediment settles, it can foul gravel beds
Low pH can kill amphibians and smother fish eggs and benthic
because their skin is insects. The sediment can also carry
sensitive to contaminants pathogens, pollutants and nutrients.
Electrical Conductivity/Salinity

Salts that dissolve in water break into positively and negatively charged
ions.
Conductivity is the ability of water to conduct an electrical current, and the
dissolved ions are the conductors.
The major positively charged ions are sodium, (Na+) calcium (Ca+2),
potassium (K+) and magnesium (Mg+2). The major negatively charged ions are
chloride (Cl-), sulfate (SO4-2), carbonate (CO3-2), and bicarbonate (HCO3-).
Nitrates (NO3-2) and phosphates (PO4-3) are minor contributors to
conductivity, although they are very important biologically.

Salinity is a measure of the amount of salts in the water. Because dissolved

ions increase salinity as well as conductivity, the two measures are related.
Salts and other substances affect the quality of water used for irrigation or
drinking. They also have a critical influence on aquatic biota, and every kind
of organism has a typical salinity range that it can tolerate. Moreover, the ionic
composition of the water can be critical.
Conductivity will vary with water source: ground water, water drained from
agricultural fields, municipal waste water, rainfall. Therefore, conductivity can
indicate groundwater seepage or a sewage leak.
Waterborne illness is caused by recreational or drinking water contaminated by disease-causing
microbes or pathogens. Of note, many waterborne pathogens can also be acquired by consuming
contaminated food or beverages, from contact with animals or their environment, or through
person-to-person spread.

These diseases can be spread while

bathing, washing, drinking water,
or by eating food exposed to
contaminated water.
They are a pressing issue in rural
areas amongst developing countries
all over the world.
While diarrhea and vomiting are
the most commonly reported
symptoms of waterborne illness,
other symptoms can include skin,
ear, respiratory, or eye problems.
Lack of clean water supply,
sanitation and hygiene (WASH) are
major causes for the spread of
waterborne diseases in a
community.
 Water-borne diseases spread
by contaminating drinking
water systems with feces and
urine of infected animals or
people.
The spread of contaminated
water is likely to happen
where private and public
drinking systems get their
water such as surface waters -
creeks, rivers, lakes, and rain.
These sources of water may
be contaminated by infected
animals or people. Runoff
from:
1. Landfills
2. Sewer pipes
3. Septic fields
4. Industrial or residential
developments
Use good environmental management.
Flush or discard any stool in the toilet
and clean surrounding area using hot
water and detergent. A chlorine-based
disinfectant is recommended.
Practice good personal hygiene. Frequent
and careful hand washing is important
among all age groups. Hand washing of
children should be supervised. Wash hands
thoroughly with soap and water for at least
20 seconds, rubbing hands together
vigorously and scrubbing all surfaces.
Wash hands before and after preparing
food or eating.
Do not swallow water while swimming in
swimming pools, hot tubs or interactive
fountains, lakes, rivers, springs, ponds,
streams or the ocean.
Do not drink untreated water from lakes,
rivers, springs, ponds, streams, or shallow
wells.
Do not drink tap water or use ice w
Organic Wastes

What are Organic Wastes?

Organic waste is the waste that is biodegradable and comes
from any living source like plants, animals, and
microorganisms. It can be broken into carbon dioxide,
methane, or simple organic molecules.
Examples of organic waste include food waste, food-soiled
paper, green waste, green waste, etc.
Its most common sources include agriculture, household
activities, and industrial products.

What is organic waste management?

Organic waste management is a process where organic wastes
are recycled or converted into other useful matter by different
recycling methods.
Prevention and control of water pollution

It is said that prevention is better than cure. Strict legislation can help to reduce
water pollution and policy maker should formulate strategies to prevent water
pollution sources.
Following measures can help to control water pollution
Prevent generation of pollutants at first place. Control the pollutants to minimise
its effects on water pollution.
Domestic and industrial waste water should be disposed off only after
treatment.
Enforce pollution control laws strictly.
Use treatment plants to clean discharged industrial waste water and utilise it for
irrigation purpose.
Discourage excess use of pesticide and insecticide.
Water bodies should be regularly cleaned of aquatic weed and wild plants
Create public awareness regarding water pollution
Afforestation will help to reduce the pollution and water erosion
Use methods of biological nitrogen fixation to improve soil health and adopt
integrated pest management to minimise chemical contamination in water.