POLLUTION AND GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE
- The past century has witnessed a significant increase in the human population, leading to higher demands for various resources such as food, water, energy, and infrastructure like roads and automobiles.
- This surge in demands puts immense pressure on our natural resources, including air, water, soil, and energy sources.
- Pollution refers to any undesirable alteration in the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of the environment, caused by pollutants. These pollutants can originate from various sources, including industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal.
- The unchecked exploitation of natural resources and the release of pollutants into the environment contribute to environmental degradation. This degradation manifests in forms such as air pollution, water contamination, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.
- Governments worldwide have enacted legislation to address environmental concerns. For example, in India, the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 aims to safeguard and enhance the quality of the environment by regulating activities that may cause pollution.
- Pollution is not confined to local or national boundaries; it has far-reaching implications on a global scale. The accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, primarily due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels, has led to climate change, altering weather patterns and ecosystems worldwide.
- To combat pollution and global environmental change, efforts are underway to mitigate emissions and adapt to the changing climate. This includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing sustainable agricultural practices, and promoting eco-friendly technologies.
- Increasing public awareness about the impacts of pollution and environmental degradation is crucial for fostering individual and collective action. Education and outreach programs play a vital role in promoting conservation and sustainable living practices.