Category: Pollution

Abstract

Water is being covered about two thirds of the earth surface. Some of the water is found in the continents rivers, lakes and in the subsurface. The fact still holds that about 98% of the earths water is found in the oceans; this ocean water sometimes is locked up in glaciers. In land, water is locked up in ice caps especially in cold areas. People often ignores most of the things available within his reach and as most of you might agree, it is a universally held notion that we crave for what we cant get and despise what we cannot live without. Until recently, the issue of water had been taken with less concern with nobody caring on how water was being used. Before then water was considered as a commodity which can survive beyond depletion nobody saw the chances of the commodity becoming scarce. However as events unfold, it has been revealed as a fact that water is rapidly being depleted and soon the world may become a desert.

As it has been reported, many third world countries are still grappling with providing usable water to their citizens. Most of these countries are in Africa and Asia.

This research tries to explain the importance of water especially in an economists perspective by explaining the uses of water in various fields, pollution of water and the agents of pollution. In essence, the report tries to crystallize ways in which this precious commodity can be utilized to enhance sustainable economic growth in the society.

As we shall be able to see in this report, clean water quality is more of primary importance than just the water itself. Water is put into a specific use depending on the degree of its quality.

Introduction

When we talk about water, the first thing that comes into our mind is a colorless liquid, which is used for domestic, purposes such as cooking, cleaning, drinking, and for animals consumption. Despite the numerous uses of water, as we have seen above, the commodity is quickly running out of stock and action needs to be taken in devising ways in which we can use water in an efficient and a sustainable way. The distribution of water across the world varies with some places having abundant supplies as others have constrained supplies. This is confirmed by Johnson (2010) who states that:

In wealthy parts of the world, people turn on a faucet and out pours abundant, clean water. Yet nearly 900 million people in the world have no access to clean water, and 2.5 billion people have no safe way to dispose human wastemany defecate in open fields or near the same rivers they drink from. Dirty water and lack of a toilet and proper hygiene kill 3.3 million people around the world annually, most of them children under age five (p. 2).

In some places accessing even the dirty wash is not that easy. This shows how extreme the conditions may even get in the near future (Johnson, 2010). Though sanitation is a major and necessary issue for one to lead a healthy life, most of the people in Africa (Sahara region) do not access water that regularly thus basic issues like washing own bodies, washing clothes and washing hands after visiting toilets are not possible since the available water is for consumption purposes.

The use of water, however, as we shall see later goes beyond the domestic boundaries. Since the beginning, there has always been the issue of water cropping up in most of the historic happenings. Industrialization is a good example.

Considering all the uses of water, we cannot fail to crystallize its importance in the society today. That is why conservation measures have to be formulated in order to prevent the depletion of this precious commodity. Conservation measures include protecting catchments areas, preventing pollution and regulating the number of boreholes in a given area and the basic one (though hard to observe) is the efficient and sustainable use of our water resources which guarantees the future generation at least some volumes of clean water if not adequate.

The different ways in which we use water alters the quality of water with most of the times adding impurities and contaminating the water. A press release by Canadian Press (2010) indicates that the countrys lakes and rivers are all contaminated with harmful compounds and little is known of what will happen if the compounds mix although the extent of contamination is not yet known. The knowledge gap, which exists, is making it impossible to conduct risk assessment or management activities.

This problem is likely to be worsened by the ongoing global warming and climate change due to human activities. Unpredictable heavy rainfalls could cause overflows carrying with it sewer, manure. And fertilizers between compound and deposit them in our lakes or water bodies. If these rain conditions are found by a warmer season, this provides a good breeding site for the algae due to the existing contaminate conditions which may be rich in nitrogen and phosphorous compounds. These algae deprive water its oxygen and the water animals such as the fish and amphibians may die due to the limited nutrients available and this could be a huge economic loss to any society.

In developed countries such as those countries in North America and Europe, policies governing the issue of water have been formulated and are operational as we speak. However, this is quite different in poor countries. In Africa for example, pastoral communities have been reported to fight over water. This is compounded if the communities live in areas that have been frequented with draught. And worse still if the warring communities belong to two different countries.

Generally speaking, water is found everywhere on earth and there exists different ways in which it can be tapped for human use. From the economic point of view how we use our water resources should be efficient and in sustainable ways, which ensures that, we leave the resources in better conditions than we found them. To Control how water is used, the authorities concerned should enact laws that bars one from inefficient usage of water and for those who uses water for industrial and processing purposes laws and taxes should be introduced that ensure that the effluents are treated before being released to the river because effluents are a major source of pollution.

Water pollution

Pollution of water is simply defined as contamination of water. Substances which pollute water are most of the times chemicals. These chemicals alter the quality of water by adding some components, which can be or are harmful to human beings, animals, and the entire ecosystem. There are quite a number of pollutants, which can cause harm to surrounding water bodies like lakes and ponds. Some of the pollutants include soil, nutrients, and microorganisms (as we shall see below).

Water and its uses

Water is required in every activity that people do as long as they are living. Therefore, we can discuss the uses of water under the different activities. The primary categories in which we can classify water use is industrial use, municipal use and in agriculture. Below are some of the uses of water in the different fields. The use of water is related to all sectors of human activity including industrial use, agriculture, various services, health care sector, and other branches where people work and technological processes that work due to water supplies.

Domestic use of water

In the domestic sector, water is used for drinking, cooking and cleaning. We also fetch water for our animals to drink. For example, washing a sizeable load of laundry uses a good amount of water. Statistics estimate this to be 40 gallons (University of Arizona, 2010). We also use water in agriculture to irrigate plants. Within our bodies, water is used during metabolism. Water is also used in the tourism industry. Water falls and rapids create good scenery for tourist attraction. It is evident that most of us use water according to its availability but not according to the uses. As noted by Johnson (2010);

The average American uses a hundred gallons of water just at home every day; Aylito Binayo makes do with two and a half gallons (p3).

This was in a case where the writer had visited some places in the southern side of Ethiopia in Africa and he notes that it would be very hard to convince the community living around this place, that using water for bathing or any other sanitation purposes was healthy due to the fact that the available volumes of water do not allow them to.

In agriculture

Water is used for economic purposes especially in the field of agriculture. Water can be used in the irrigation of rice, white and other agricultural produce and when we pollute our waters; the growth of these crops is curtailed as the contamination may hinder their growth. Agriculture is one of the most important branches of the world economy because it enables people to grow crops and get, in this way, food for people all over the globe. In this respect, water is one of the essential factors for agricultural sector as it can either increase or reduce the crops resistance, volume, and ability of plants to produce some crops in the next generation of seeds.

Thereby, it is necessary to provide crops with adequate water supplies so that people could get good crops regardless of the climate and the weather because the external factors and climate changes can influence greatly the stability of crops. As reported by Hardaker (2004), &some public investments in agriculture can be both productivity increasing an income stabilizing. An example is the provision of irrigation water via public schemes (p. 291). In this respect, water is an important part of success in terms of crops.

Water in the industry

Water is also used in the industrial sector, for example, in the engineering field and in the energy sector. In energy sector hydroelectric energy is produced whereby water is used to drive turbines that generate electricity. Geothermal energy production also uses water whereby water is pumped down a reservoir and comes out as steam through another channel. Engineering uses of water are in construction of roads, bridges, and railway lines. Water is used as a coolant in heavy-duty industries. If we use polluted water for these activities, for example, water containing metals, it can make the machines used in the above sectors corrode and thus result into economical losses, as the machinery will require regular replacements in order to function successfully.

Water in the security sector

Water has also gained its use in the security sector. Thus, it can be mixed with other chemicals and be used to disperse rowdy crowds. In Africa this technique was first utilized in South Africa. If such water was contaminated with carcinogenic compounds such as the mercury compounds, body contact with the water can cause itching and rashes all over the body causing more harm and discomfort than was expected.

Water in the transport sector

Water has also been used in the transport sector whereby it has been used as a means in which vessels move from one port to another. Submarines, cruise ships, ferries and other water going vessels cannot travel without water. A case study is in River Nile in Africa. The Nile is used for transport. Water is also used to cool engines of automobiles. In economic terms water bodies are the channels through which goods can be transported from one area to another. As with the engineering sector, contact of contaminated water with the machinery causes corrosion and thus an economic loss

Water in the rescue services

Water is also used in fire rescue services. When mixed with gases such as carbon dioxide, this water can be able to put a fire in control. Rescue services cannot work without water as they have to save lives and water can be considered one of the integral parts of their work. Lack of water supply leads to inability of those services to provide people and animals that stuck in the fire with adequate rescue techniques. In other words, water is a mean of rescuing and it cannot be substituted by some other materials; especially, when no other methods are effective in similar cases. As reported by Collins (2005), implementation of river and flood rescue program is an important part of the work performed by rescue services hence resulting in ambiguity when people can suffer because of lack of water or inadequate supply or from floods (p. 140).

Water in the health sector

In medical terms water is used in the laboratories in the manufacture of medicines or in pure water injections. Health sector is one of the primary branches of human activity where water plays a crucial role for all aspects of this activity. Patients need water, medical staff needs water; water is used to prevent some infections and make the health care environment more appropriate for surgical operations. In this respect, people should be aware of the operations fulfilled in different parts of the globe without appropriate conditions due to the lack of water and inadequate supplies.

Different programs and funds are aimed at providing people all over the world with appropriate food and water supplies. Though humanitarian missions are focused more on medicaments and food provisions, water is of primary importance for most of the world. This happens due to lack of pure drinking water that is often contaminated with some waste products. As reported by World Water Assessment Programme (United Nations) (2003), health care organizations require more water for sanitation and other traditional fictions attributed to water in the health care sector (p. 123).

Chemical industry

Water is also used in the chemical industry. Most chemicals are manufactured in the presence of water. Thus, water is either used as a medium of iron exchange or as a coolant. Water also exists as a major component in chemicals. For example, all acids contain water as a major constituent in their chemistry. Chemistry should be safe in order to prevent victims among civil population. In this respect, chemistry and other branches of science should be provided with appropriate water supplies so that they could conduct their researches in adequate conditions.

Water in mining

In the mining sector, water is used for provisions in underground mines. It is also used as a lubricant in drills and even as a solvent in mining salt domes. Different industries should be provided with water because it is used for industrial needs and for needs of the workers that develop various resources. In this respect, emergencies are not likely to occur when people have enough water, at least, they will be provided with sufficient water supplies even in case of emergency. Other industries can experience lack of water and ineffective water supplies due to problems in coordination of water supplying programs and services. Thus, water should be given to workers that need it.

Case study of river Nile in Africa

In Africa, River Nile passes through Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Egypt. The river serves numerous purposes, which include fishing, tourism, and farming. In the tourism sector there are numerous luxury cruises traveling in River Nile especially in Egypt. In farming, the surrounding communities use the Nile for irrigation and for transporting their goods. Items such as rice, wheat, hay; cattle and many others are transported through the Nile. Fishing is a major source of income to communities living around river Nile with the major breed of fish being Nile Perch. The major pollutants of this river come about due to the following activities:

Pollution of water by soil

When it rains, the surface runoffs usually erode the soil. This soil is transported and deposited in nearby rivers. In such areas soil usually accumulates to levels where it can kill microorganisms, macro organisms and even the eggs of water dwelling animals. In some situations, this eroded soil clogs the gills of fish and cause problems to other water dwelling animals. When water has got very large deposits of soil, it becomes opaque thus hindering the penetration of light through and this causes death of most water plants resulting in death of other water organism that feeds on these plants.

Accumulation of soils in large reservoirs also causes siltation thus reducing the volume of water in the reservoir. This can be deceiving to the surrounding ecosystem that uses this water for domestic, irrigation purposes, and for HEP production. As a result, dredging will be required. The process of dredging is expensive and time consuming. Thus, to an economists point of view, water contamination by soil causes the society to spend more money on remediation measures. Dredging will also be needed to prevent clogging in the gills of fish.

Pollution of water by nutrients

Pollution of water by nutrients is often an artificial cause. The use of fertilizers in agricultural practices can be detrimental to the soil and water. If these fertilizers are washed away, they can find their way into rivers, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. Fertilizers usually contain nitrogen and phosphorus. If it finds its way in a lake, the nitrogen and phosphorus cause eutrophication. Eutrophication alters nutrient levels in the water. This causes growth of phytoplankton.

Nitrogen is a nutrient that is well known for stimulating growth of algae. Phosphorus is also another element well known for this purpose. If this growth occurs the ecosystem is affected. Growth of phytoplankton yields algae. When algae grow to numerous numbers, they cause problems because they use up all the oxygen therefore killing organisms like fish, the algae also produces toxins which are also harmful to human beings and other water living organisms. By doing this, the ecosystem is changed and this becomes problematic (Medline Plus, 2010).

Water pollution by sewage

This kind of pollution comes from sewage spills. When untreated sewage is deposited in a lake, bacteria will grow. As a result of this growth, organisms living in the water will find themselves competing for oxygen with these bacteria. Worse still, if the environment is in favor of the bacteria, the increase in bacterial growth will cause them to use up all the oxygen. This results into death of water dwelling animals like fish.

Causes of water pollution and remediation measures

The types of water pollution have to be established first. As we have seen, point source pollution usually comes from a single source. On the other hand, if the source of pollution is not definite it is called non point-source pollution. Hence, we have surface water pollution and ground water pollution. However, transboundary pollution may also occur. Transboundary pollution is when nuclear wastes leak into the water system in the underground and manifests several miles away.

Causes of water pollution include sewage, wastewater, and dumping of waste in the marine environment. On the other hand, industrial effluent and nuclear wastes, which are radioactive, do also cause pollution. In addition to this, oil leaks and leakage from underground storage facilities can also cause great harm to the environment. Deposition of chemicals in the atmosphere, global warming, and eutrophication are also major ways of polluting water (Water treatment information, 2010).

Preventing water pollution

Prevention of water pollution is one of the remediation measures that aim at keeping the water clean. Below are ways in which we can help in preventing water pollution.

Dumping in the ocean should be carried off further offshore. This will reduce the concentration on toxic substances in the water. However, this method needs to be disallowed because it still contaminates the marine environment.

Public education will help a great deal in ensuring that substances such as pesticides near water bodies do not have effect on the ecology of the water life. Atmospheric deposition should be discouraged so that these chemical substances do not infiltrate into the ways (Scipeeps, 2010). Another way of preventing water pollution is by use of strict laws, which punishes all those who disposes their factory effluents to the river without treating it. The government can also introduce taxes or the emerging trade in Transferable Emission Permits, (TEP). The TEPs enables the more polluting companies to buy emission permits from less emitting factories but at a higher price than the original buying price. The main aim of this strategy is to discourage the polluting factories from excessive pollution.

Conserving Water

All people must join hand in ensuring that water conservation practices are upheld. If water is not conserved, it will be depleted hence ending the livelihood of many including animals and plants. Thus, it is a cost effective way of reducing the demand for this commodity. It is also an environmental friendly way of reducing this demand. Economizing on water also reduces the pressure on sewage treatment systems. If we economize on water, less energy will be used in heating water. For example, population in Los Angeles has swelled up yet the city has been using the same amount of water notwithstanding (Monolake committee, 2010).

Benefits of Conserving Water

The benefits of conserving water include those concerned with energy. Since energy is used in treating and pumping water, the less water we use, the less energy will be demanded by this sector. Thus, conservation of water is accompanied by conservation of energy. Water conservation also goes hand in hand with saving money. This practice is quite easy to accomplish and one does not need a lot of time to save on water usage (Howard, 2010). When money is saved, it can be used in other important areas of investment so that sustainable economic growth is enhanced.

Examples of ways in which you can participate in water conservation are; watering your garden only when needed and capturing cold water from the tap as you wait for the hot water to come out. This captured water can later be used in your garden irrigation. A swimming pool can also be covered using a water resistant fabric. This can help reduce the amount of evaporation from the pool. Also, there should be proper dispose of hazardous substances so that they dont contaminate large amounts of water. If chemicals are disposed in a proper way so that there is no leakage, there will be reduced contamination of water. A small amount of chemicals can contaminate a large amount of water. Thus, less money will be spent in proper dispose of chemical waste than in treating the contaminated water.

Conclusion

We have to understand that for us to achieve sustainable growth, water conservation has to be given a priority. As we have seen, if we conserve water, other elements will also be conserved. Thus, the less water we use the less energy we consume, hence, the less the money we spend. In the end, we can use the money in investment to other important fields. Pollution of water takes a great toll in the economy of a country. If water is polluted, it will become unsafe to some uses such as domestic use.

Since its quality has been altered, it may become useless for irrigation purposes and even in some specific industries like those industries that manufacture beverages. Thus, if the quality of water is altered more money will be used in purifying it hence it becomes an expensive practice. Since prevention is better than cure, rather than treating the water, it is better to prevent its pollution because the process of prevention is cheaper in relation to time, money, and other resources.

Recommendations

Recommendations have to be made regarding the use, conservation measures and methods of preventing pollution of water. Water pollution can cause health problems to the ecosystem. These health problems will end up costing the economy in some sense. Thus, environmental policies should be formulated to ensure that water pollution is prevented. Water regulatory agencies should ensure that any company involved with dumping should be monitored. The use of water should also be regulated. This will be able to enhance conservation of water so that the fiscal budget of water is reduced. In addition, the policy of further offshore dumping is still causing problems to the marine ecosystem. Thus, this policy should be abolished and new methodologies embraced so that marine ecosystems are not tampered with.

Reference List

Anonymous. (2010). Lakes, Rivers at Risk Due To Knowledge Gaps. Web.

Collins, L. (2005). Technical rescue operations: Common emergencies. Tulsa: PennWell Books.

Hardaker, J. B. (2004). Coping with risk in agriculture. 2^nd ed. New York: CABI.

Howard, V. (2010). Economic and Environmental Advantages of Water Conservation. Web.

Johnson, L. (2010). Our Thirsty World. Web.

Medline plus, (2010). Water Pollution. Web.

Monolake committee. (2010). Water Conservation. Web.

Scipeeps. (2010). Water Pollution Prevention. Web.

University of Arizona. (2010). Water Resources Research Center: Water Uses. Web.

Water treatment information, (2010). Water Pollution Guide. Web.

World Water Assessment Programme (United Nations). (2003). Water for people, water for life: A joint report by the twenty-three UN agencies concerned with freshwater. Berghahn Books.

Introduction

Generally, pollution is the process of introducing new materials, contaminants, into the natural environment leading to adverse effects. There are different types of pollution. These include air pollution, sound pollution, light pollution, littering, and soil contamination.

From the above definition of pollution, it is clear that pollutants are foreign substances and particles that contaminate the environment. This paper discusses the various sources of air pollution, the effects of air pollution, and ways of minimizing air pollution. The paper also discusses two classes of pollutants: indoor pollutants and outdoor pollutants.

Air pollution

Air pollution is the process of introducing pollutants into the atmosphere willingly or unwillingly. Human beings perform certain activities that lead to air pollution. For instance, the burning of bushes leads to air pollution. When pollutants enter the atmosphere, they pollute it. Examples of these pollutants include commercial chemicals, foreign particles, and biological substances. After entering the atmosphere, they become part of the atmosphere and they mix with air components.

These pollutants are dangerous especially if living organisms inhale them. They can cause diseases, death of living organisms such as plants and animals, deterioration of the natural environment, and uneasiness. In other words, the introduction of unwanted materials into the atmosphere is a dangerous phenomenon. Air pollutants can also cause other problems. For example, they can damage the built environment and ecosystems of living organisms (Gay 3-14).

According to scientists, the atmosphere is an intricate innate gaseous system that is so much beneficial to all living organismsplants and animals. In fact, a clean atmosphere supports life on earth. This is the reason why all human beings should stop activities that lead to the contamination of the atmosphere.

Most importantly, scientists across the globe continue to warn people that the stratospheric ozone depletion is dangerous, and can cause health hazards. Undoubtedly, when air pollutants enter the atmosphere, they destroy the ozone layer. The depletion of the ozone layer means that earths ecosystems will suffer.

According to research, air pollution is common in urban areas due to many vehicles that emit fumes to the atmosphere. Moreover, in urban areas, many factories release dangerous gases to the atmosphere leading to air pollution.

In rural areas, the burning bushes and lighting of unnecessary fire also causes air pollution. In rural areas where farming is a common activity, farmers pollute the atmosphere by spraying chemicals to food crops. Notably, since the earth is the only planet that supports life, it is necessary to avoid activities that cause air pollution.

Therefore, all human beings should take into consideration the effects of their activities, especially those that cause air pollution. Moreover, people should understand that although economic activities are good for their welfare, they can survive for few days without food, but they cannot survive even a second minus oxygen. This is the main reason why people should avoid all activities that contaminate the atmosphere.

Many people do not understand the importance of keeping the environment clean and free from any contamination. Perhaps this is the main reason why many of them engage in activities that contaminate the environment. For instance, the exploitation of natural resources and industrialization can emit dangerous gases into the atmosphere.

Additionally, green house gases also emit dangerous gases to the atmosphere. For example, green house gases such as sulfur trioxide and carbon dioxide are some of the dangerous gases that enter the atmosphere. Definitely, the destruction of the atmosphere is a serious issue of concern to many people, as the contamination of the atmosphere causes serious health hazards. Undeniably, air pollution is one of the problems facing the world today.

Sources of Air Pollution

The challenge of air pollution started during the industrial revolution age. During those times, many people did not understand the effects of contaminating the atmosphere. There is no doubt that industrial revolution brought significant developments such as improved means of transport, cheaper merchandise, and the improvement of life.

However, the development of technology came at a price. For example, the construction of many factories has increased the percentage of dangerous gases in the atmosphere. However, due to increase of knowledge, many people are now aware of the causes and dangers of air pollution.

For example, automobiles burn gasoline thus emitting dangerous gasses to the atmosphere. In addition, the incineration of products also emits dangerous gases to the atmosphere. Furthermore, smoke from factories also emits dangerous particles and gases into the atmosphere that is dangerous to the life of living organisms.

In fact, the main reason why air pollution is more dangerous than other forms of pollution is that it involves the depletion of the ozone layer, which supports life on earth. For instance, gaseous by-products from industries can cause death of organisms once they inhale contaminated air. Therefore, as the world becomes more industrialized, there will be continued air pollution and increased health hazards.

In some instances, air pollution can occur from natural sources, which are beyond the control of human beings. For example, the destruction of forest by fire causes leads to air pollution. The eruption of volcanoes and dust storms are also other examples of natural air pollutants. In some cases, the polluted air combines with raindrops to form acid rain, which is another form of air pollution.

The effects of acid rain are catastrophic and they include the annihilation of crops, erosion of buildings, and destruction of other assets. Moreover, acid rain can also cause global warming, which is one of the very many issues affecting the world today. According to scientists, air pollution leads to climate change, and that people will soon start noticing climate change patterns and alterations. If there is continued air pollution, the average global temperature will rise and this will increase health hazards and respiratory deaths.

Classification of air pollutants

Of course, the two major classes of causes of air pollutants are indoor and outdoor. In the former, we have a number of pollutants that emit dangerous gases to the atmosphere.

For example, furnishings and cleaners are examples of indoor pollutants. Mold is also another indoor air pollutant that is very dangerous. To start with, mold is a microscopic organism common on surfaces with high humidity percentages. For instance, on the body of human beings, mold can grow into the skin and cause health implications, asthma and allergic reactions.

Recently, scientists have also associated mold with chronic sinus infections that is not only dangerous, but can also cause death of organisms. Additionally, mold can cause breathing difficulties, breeding from the lungs. It can also cause memory loss and hearing impairments. Clearly, indoor pollutants are dangerous. However, as compared to outdoor pollutants, they are minimal (Farrah and Brook 1240-1241).

Ordinarily, outdoor pollutants are common in the atmosphere, which contains the air that living organisms inhale. Pollutants from industries, automobiles, airplanes, and other machines emit fissile fuels into the air. These are some of the examples of outdoor air pollutants. Different factories, depending on what they manufacture, emit different gases to the atmosphere. Moreover, some factories release sulfuric acid fumes to the atmosphere, which can cause respiratory difficulties.

When it is raining, the raindrops combine with these fumes to form acid rain that is dangerous to the life of living organisms, and destruction of property especially in the northern hemisphere region. In northern lakes, organisms living in water such as fish die due to acid rain. Ironically, the solution to this predicament is quite involving and expensive, as it is not easy to clear sulfur from coal due to burning. However, it is easier to clear carbon dioxide from the air as compared to other gases.

Statistics indicate that carbon dioxide is the most abundant air pollutant in the atmosphere compared to chlorofluorocarbons such as nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide from green houses. This is due to rampant deforestation and release of fossil fuels into the atmosphere. Nevertheless, green plants help in clearing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere (Tyson 57-77).

Conclusion

Many countries have come together to enact laws that will protect the environment for future generations. From the Kyoto Protocol to the Clean Air Act, countries across the globe continue to adopt laws that will govern the protection of the environment.

However, adopting laws is not enough, as countries must commit themselves to protecting the environment. For example, the development of electric vehicles will reduce emission of fossil gases to the atmosphere. Factories should also use resources that emit fewer gases to the atmosphere.

For example, in the place of coal they can use natural gas, which emits les gas. Motorists should also turn-off their engines in order to reduce more gas emissions into the atmosphere. Although the world has made progressive advances towards a clean atmosphere, industrial development remains the biggest hindrance. Nevertheless, many countries have pledged to reduce gas emissions in order to protect the atmosphere from contamination for future generations.

Works Cited

Farrah, Mateen, and Robert Brook. Air Pollution as an emerging global risk factor for stroke. Journal of American Medical Association, 305.12(2011): 1240-1241. Print.

Gay, Kathlyn. Air Pollution. New York: F. Watts, 1991. Print.

Tyson, Peter. Acid Rain. New York: Chelsea House, 1992. Print.

The Chilliwack River Watershed

The Chilliwack River is located in the southeast region of Chilliwack city, around 1-hour eastside of Vancouver in British Columbia. The watershed is bounded by some of the best farming areas in Canada. The largest part of this land is ALR i.e. Agricultural Land Reserve which has guarded agriculture against municipal infringement or encroachment. The watershed faces a fast agricultural increase in horticulture and livestock causing agricultural sources of pollution. It also faces extension of urban growth on sharp mountain slopes thus raising concerns about the volatility of slopes, low-land agriculture flooding, and storm-water.

Chilliwack River Watershed maintenance is under great pressure because of differing use of resources and activity, high demands for growth and recreation, and impacts to quality of water and riparian habitation from different water-use and land-use activities. Differing interests and lack of concise jurisdictional accountability to address such issues have caused many bureaus and interest groups to team up. Their collaboration has created a multi-jurisdictional, practical, and proactive agency that is working jointly toward developing a plan for the Chilliwack River Watershed.

Pollution

Chilliwack River Watershed is affected by the quality of air and water. The water quality is influenced by the mineral deposits, human activities, soil drainage characteristics, physical features such as soil erosion, and also biological processes. Suitable levels of water quality are dictated by the everyday uses of water. Watershed water quality is determined in several ways, which involves measuring the chemical or physical characteristics of the water or establishing whether biological microorganisms that cause health problems are prevalent. Major sustainability matters facing Chilliwack River Watershed include; erosion, flood-hazard management, fast population growth, lack of agricultural land, city sprawl, blockage, water and air pollution, and illegal dumping sites. Human activities that take place everyday impact CRW and most significant is the pollution of this watershed.

Major cities around the world are within the watershed thats why watersheds pollution is very common. This pollution happens in two different ways i.e. non-point source and point source. Point source pollution can be described as pollution that can be located in a particular point for instance a dumping site or a leaking channel or pipe (Riddle; 2009). Recently, technology expertise and law have helped in discovering point source pollution and numerous problems are being solved and controlled. On the other hand, non-point source pollution takes place when contaminants are found in water overflow in crops, parking areas, and other lands segments. Additionally, it can also be brought about when substances in the air fall on the ground with rainwater.

Human activities have greatly impacted the CWR watershed by lessening the quantity of water that flows within it (Macnab; 1957). When people fetch water from the river or lakes for agriculture and other farming activities, the flow of water in rivers and lakes decreases, and with this decline, natural sequences that occur for instance flooding may not take place. This could as result harm the ecosystem depending on the natural sequences of the river. Different types of constructions, buildings, and woodlands are all constituents of watersheds. Since all human beings are linked to a watershed, their activities affect the safety of their watersheds. Common activities like driving a vehicle left behind contaminants or pollutants.

When rainwater runs through the watershed, it collects bacteria, microorganisms, and chemicals and takes them to different lakes, rivers, and even streams. Inappropriate dumping of animal wastes, motor oil, and excessive use of fertilizers can cause air and water pollution. Due to the watersheds unsystematic sources, all people share responsibility for this contamination and pollution known as non-point source pollution.

The most prevalent watersheds of non-point source contaminants or pollutants are nutrients and microorganisms. Animal wastes, leaks from polluted pipes waste are rampant sources of microbes. When rainwater carries microorganisms to nearby lakes and rivers, it makes the water hazardous for human activities such as fishing. Rainfall washes surplus nutrients present in the environment into different water catchments areas thus lowering the quantity of oxygen in rivers, lakes, and streams to levels that are detrimental, harmful, and sometimes deadly to marine animals and vegetations; polluting the environment can very harmful to animals, plants and also human beings.

Watershed Planning

Law can influence watershed planning; watershed planning can mean different things to different individuals. Watershed planning involves applying reason to solve various problems and coming up with steps that can be implemented to realize a specific objective goal. One of the most imperative uses of watershed planning is to back-up watershed decisions that maintain and re-establishes watershed roles and functions. Watershed planning is the keystone for effectual human actions and only if the proposed strategies and the findings are executed and the watershed response monitored.

Generally, a watershed plan is made up of an overall vision, goals, and objectives for the watershed, several steps required to accomplish those goals, and comprehensive consideration of how to put those steps into practice. The plan should as well include prioritization of the objectives and events, optimization of the series of actions for great competence and efficiency, and ways of monitoring the execution and results of actions.

Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (1999, c.33) can influence CWR watershed planning in that it is an act that respects prevention of pollution, human health, and environmental protection to contribute to sustainable growth. It affirms that protection of the environment is imperative to the welfare of Canadians and its primary purpose is to partake in sustainable progress through the prevention of pollution.

The Government of Canada tries to accomplish sustainable growth that is based on economically resourceful use of natural and social resources and recognizes the need to incorporate ecological, economic, and social aspects in the making of all government and private agencies decisions. The government is also committed to preventing pollution and prioritizing the approach to protect the environment. CWR watershed planning is acknowledged by the government and so it plays part in steps for implementation and success measures. It acknowledges the need to practically eradicate bio-accumulative poisonous substances and the need to manage and control wastes and pollutants released into the environment.

The law influences the Canadian CWR watershed planning in that it recognizes the significance of an ecosystem approach (Heathcote; 2009). The law has good recommendations for action; it demonstrates national management in setting up national standards, ecosystem goals, and environmental quality strategies and codes of practice. The law influences watershed planning by acknowledging the authority that facilitates environment protection and recognizing the problems faced when creating a plan. Watershed planning entails establishing measures that protect watersheds from pollution; the law influences this plan by recognizing the significance of endeavoring, in collaboration with regions, provinces, and the indigenous people to achieve the improved environmental quality for all citizens of Canada and eventually contribute to sustainable growth.

The law acknowledges that the danger of poisonous substances in the environment is an issue of great concern and once poisonous substances are introduced in the surroundings, they cannot always be restricted within geographical boundaries. The integral role of CWR watershed planners is recognized by the law; it helps in the implementation of proposed strategies (Everett; 2003). The fundamental role of science and the function of traditional indigenous knowledge is recognized in the decision-making process relating to human health and environmental protection. The health and environmental dangers, the technical and socio-economic issues are also considered in the process.

The government of Canada ensures that its functions and activities on indigenous and federal lands are implemented in a manner that is consistent with the guidelines of pollution prevention and the safety of human health and the environment. It attempts to eradicate threats to natural diversity through prevention of pollution and risk management and control (Charlton; 2005). CWR watershed planning is made effectual through educational programs and public awareness.

Watershed plans are the rational follow-up to watershed evaluation. Plans take the strategies built during evaluation and design a series of solutions to address the basic issues and problems discovered in the evaluation. A watershed plan comprises a sequence of proposed strategies that seek to develop pollution prevention. Watershed planning demands combined thinking and a synchronized approach. Maybe the best technique is to give consequential public participation in the process because experience has revealed that top-down planning can build a variety of execution barriers based on the lack of public participation at major points of the watershed planning process.

References

Charlton, F. (2005). Watershed. New York, NY: NYIAD Press.

Everett, P. (2003). Watershed. New York, NY: Beacon Press.

Heathcote, I. (2009). Integrated watershed management: principles and practice. New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons.

Macnab, G. (1957). Chilliwack River recreational recco. New York, NY: Forest Service, Park Division.

Riddle, E. (2009). Watershed: Service in the Wake of Disaster. New York, NY: AuthorHouse.

Different countries are becoming more concerned about environmental preservation, conservation, and restoration; the main environmental pollutants are human beings as they undertake different activities. When human beings destroy nature, it affects the lives of the current generation and that of future generations negatively. Different players in marina/ boatyards/docking facilities lead to environmental damage; they include employees, the owners of boats and the public who use the facility.

To prevent and conserve the environment, a program that adheres to SWPPP (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan) needs to be implemented (Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 2010). This paper discusses factors to include in comprehensive, multimedia pollution prevention employees, the owners of boats, and the public that utilize docking facilities in Florida.

Training on Expectations of SWPPP (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan)

The success of the project will be realized after every party is educated on the expectation that an SWPPP (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan) has over him or her in the role that he plays in the pollution. Employees are the custodian of a yard thus; they have the main responsibility of ensuring that the place keeps high standards and avoids wastes into water bodies. They need to be trained in the following areas:

Good housekeeping practices

Employees are supposed to keep their working conditions favorable, clean, and orderly; the practice should be administered in such a way that potential pollutants do not get into contact with stormwater. Having a well-kept house is the initial stage of proper conservation. Employees should be trained on proper methods and their adherence supervised; when the business is clean and seems to adhere to environmental conservation, then other parties encountering the facility are likely to respect the environment as a result.

Spill prevention and response procedures

In course of operation, there are chances of spills, employees should be trained on how to prevent chances of spills from plants and when they occur they should be shown on how to respond and avoid damage from the plan. Some pollution can be prevented when there is a quick response to wastes that have occurred; staff should be training on the best response mode to use when faced with a spillage; they should know the parties to consult, and how to take-care of manageable spills (Dodson, 1999).

Waste minimization practices

Maintaining efficiency in an organization will go a long way in conserving the environment as less and fewer wastes will be produced. The training program will involve training of best production models that can maintain high levels of efficiency and reduce wastes. Some wastes can be recycled while others need special disposal, employees should be trained on the difference and the best way of waste manages.

Informing customers

To conserve the environment, it is not a one-man show, it calls for intervention and interaction of all parties involved. In the case of docking facilities, customers and the public, need to be involved in the conservation program. Staffs need to be trained on how to approach customers and explain to them the need to conserve the environment. The approach may be different from the business approach since there is an element of compliance that the staff will have to let the customer know that it has to be maintained.

Facility policies

The program will only work if there are policies and regulations put in place: staffs need to understand and know the policies they are operating with; it is through an in-depth understanding that they can adhere to the policies, rules and master the game. Having the staff with an understanding of how the program should run, the next training should be on the owners of boats that rent slips, and the public that utilizes docking facilities; they need to be incorporated in the programs to see its success. SWPPP (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan) advocates for the inclusion of all parties to a certain pollution provision to look for a lasting solution. The parties should interact and collaborate for the general good of the program. This category of people needs to be trained in the following areas:

Inventory of Exposed Significant Materials

The internal processes and adjustments made results in coming up with methods of disposing of significant materials that can damage the environment. The users of the facility should be educated on how to use the facilities; the need for the facilities also need to be explained so as they do not see the move as meant to control their activities in the docking area. Oils, manufacturing spills, and wastes need to be managed effectively, the restaurant/bar users, houses outdoor pressure washing areas users, material handlers and storage areas operators, blasting and painting operators, engine maintenance and repair areas, welding and fabrication areas, and dry-dock facilities should all have disposing points that the users will understand. Owners of these business points are the main target as to when they have been trained on the need of the facility, it is expected that they will pass the message to their employees and customers, and then the cycle continues.

Description of Industrial Activities & Significant Material Storage Areas

All players need to be trained in significant areas of business so as they can handle them with care and beware of the potential they have in causing damage. When people understand how different processes work, they are likely to adhere to the best standards as required by SWPPP (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan). Different areas have different capacities of polluting thus the significance of either area should be interpolated.

List of Significant Spills

People are ignorant of activities and functions that can lead to pollution, they should be trained on possible spills and the responsive method they should adopt in case a spill occurs. When people know the results of a certain activity, they are likely to hold it with care to prevent spills from the facility.

In the training section, it is important to have a section with the owners of different working points and seek their support on the program. They have the major role to play in that they will see policy documented implemented (ECAR, 2010).

Conclusion

In course of production, wastes are produced which if not effectively disposed of pollutes the environment; SWPPP (Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan) aims at involving all parties to a production to devise and implement an effective conservation plan. When the program has been developed, the initial stage is to train, employees, customers, and owners of the business of the expectations of the program.

References

Dodson, D.(1999). Storm water pollution control: municipal, industrial, and constructing NPDES compliance. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

ECAR.(2010). ECAR Fact Sheet Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Web.

Michigan Department of Envriometal Quality. (2010). STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN (SWPPP). Web.

Introduction: Water Pollution in the United States

The issue of water scarcity and to following strategy for its sustainable use is quite tricky. While technically being a renewable resource, water should not be viewed as the one that can replenish itself, either  due to the dangerously high rates of water pollution, the existing amounts of freshwater are getting increasingly low.

Although water pollution can hardly be ceased entirely, the current rates of water pollution can be reduced by resorting to the sustainable principle of water use in both the industrial area and the realm of the household. By increasing awareness among the population and developing a sustainable approach towards the usage of the existing water resources, one will be capable of addressing the water pollution rates in the USA.

Discussion: Causes of Water Pollution and the Means of Reducing It

Key Causes: The Dirty Side of Water Use

Unfortunately, there is no single negative factor that contributes to the increase in water pollution rates, and there is no malefactor, either  instead, it is the inconsiderate use of the existing resources that triggers water pollution. Among the key factors that trigger water pollution, its industrial usage seems to be the reason for concern for the most part. However, it is the urban runoff (i.e., the abuse of water resources by the residents of the urban areas) that triggers the so-called nonpoint (i.e., irreversible) source pollution.

Sewage

Along with nutrients and chemicals pollution, the contamination by sewage discharges is an especially huge threat to the American resources of clean water.

Industrial waste

While having to comply with the existing regulations regarding environmental protection, a range of companies resort to unclean practices by dumping their waste into the areas, where the waste becomes a threat to water. The recent Exxon scandal has shown that the estimated $8.9 billion of environmental damages has been made in 2015 (THE EDITORIAL BOARD, 2015).

Underground storage leakages

Underground storage tanks, which traditionally contain petroleum and other harmful substances, often tend to leak, therefore, triggering the release of petrol and the related substances into water, hence the water pollution.

Septic tanks

Contributing to underground storage leaking (), septic tanks contribute to water pollution in the U.S. significantly by discharging around 2 sq. m of waste into the water daily (BELIN, 2015).

Ocean dumping

Another essential factor that defines the rates of water pollution in the USA, ocean dumping needs to be reduced significantly.

Oil pollution

The notorious case of Exxons oil spill in 2015 (THE EDITORIAL BOARD, 2015) has shown that oil pollution must be prevented at all costs. The 2013 oil pollution issues have caused the USA 125 miles of coast, affecting the water and the wildlife in the vicinity (Oil spills and disasters, 2014).

Radioactive waste

Much like ocean dumping, radioactive waste disposal is difficult to trace and, therefore, it is easier for organizations dealing with the substances in question to dispose of them improperly.

Fossil fuels burning

Emitting around 117,000, 164,000 and 208,000 billion Btu annually (Comparison against other fossil fuels, 2015), natural gas, oil and coal correspondingly pose a serious threat to the quality of water in the United States.

Landfill leakage

The problem of land pollution and the following contamination of groundwater is a major problem for the United States. According to the 2015 statistics, 56% of trash in the USA is transported to landfills (BRADFORD, 2010). The leakage from the latter, in its turn, poisons the groundwater in the vicinity with detritus from rotten food and the pollutants from plastic items decomposition (BRADFORD, 2010).

Animal waste

Animal droppings also decompose into the elements that, when introduced to the soil, penetrate the groundwater area and, therefore, pollute the water.

Atmospheric deposition

The destruction of atmosphere layers leads to the exposition of water resources to an extreme level of radiation and, therefore, triggers their untimely desiccation.

Global warming

One of the most notorious and, nevertheless, the one of the lengthiest effect, global warming causes the U.S. rivers to overflow; as a result, the sewage contents will pour into clean water, contaminating it. 1.2 trillion gallons of sewage contaminate freshwater annually in the U.S (Water pollution facts, n. d., para. 24).

Death of aquatic animals

Global warming triggers a steady rise in the temperature of the water, thus, causing deaths of numerous aquatic organisms. The decomposition elements of the latter pollute the waters of the Atlantic Ocean coast and the American rivers.

Diseases

By introducing wastewater to rivers and oceans, the authorities of the U.S. risk the contamination of the aquatic animals and, therefore, the transfer of pollution by the sick animals to the clean water areas.

Food chains disruption

The effects of wastewater and food chains disruption are, in fact, reciprocal, as the latter trigger an increase in the death toll among the water life forms and, therefore, cause the contamination of water with the decomposition products, the algae, which are no longer consumed by the deceased aquatic animals, etc.

Ecosystems destruction

As a result of the lack of proper food, the inhabitants of the American rivers and seas, as well as the Atlantic, the Pacific and the Arctic Oceans are likely to die out. The lack of certain elements of the ocean food chain, in its turn, will result in higher death tolls among the aquatic animals and, thus, higher decomposition rates.

Reaching the point of no return

Agriculture

To facilitate proper growth of crops, American farmers and farming organizations spend water resources unreasonably. 130 billion gallons being used for irrigation and livestock (ADMIN, 2011), agriculture is the leading cause of water scarcity in some of the regions of the USA.

Municipal point sources

Leading to a significant reduction of dissolved oxygen, MPS also drastically affect the cleanness of water in the U.S.

Urban runoff

Made of impervious materials, pavement does not allow snow and rain to trickle into the ground; as a result, the hydrological water cycle is disrupted.

Stream/habitat changes

Another factor that causes numerous water creatures to die or migrate, stream and habitat changes alter essential characteristics of the environment, thus, causing water to become filled with bacteria, algae, etc.

Means of Control: Starting with Personal Responsibility

Reasonable use of water

Sustainability as the basis towards the use of water resources can be viewed as the strategy that should make the basis for the proper use of water. The specified approach must be deployed at every level of water resources distribution from municipal to agricultural.

Pollution Prevention Act

Adopted in 1990, the Act creates the premises for reducing the amount of pollution through cost-effective changes in production, operation, and raw materials use (Summary of the Pollution Prevention Act, 1990, par. 1).

Raising awareness among the citizen

Apart from designing legal ramifications, state authorities should consider the idea of influencing people on a personal level. By promoting the responsible use of resources, one will be capable of reducing water waste rates significantly.

Reducing the number of solids

Solid waste reduction is likely to postpone the process of water supplies exhaustion.

EPA laws enhancement

Although the approaches suggested by EPA are generally reasonable, they seem to have been disregarded when defining the strategies for water resources use in the USA. Thus, there is a need to facilitate compliance with EPA laws. This can be done by imposing fines on the individuals and organizations abusing water resources.

Ocean Dumping Program

The program was designed in 2014 after the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (Research project description, 2014) and requires sustainable and responsible disposal of waste.

Oil Pollution Prevention regulation

Designed for addressing the issues such as the case of Exxon and, therefore, preventing the catastrophes related to oil spills, the specified act requires that specific standards for oil tanks design and the storage of oil therein should be complied with.

Solutions to be designed: radioactive waste and direct injection

Even though there is no solution to handling the issue of radioactive waste management, as well as the process of direct injection, measures must be taken to facilitate remoteness of the specified types of waste from any life forms and sources of water.

Abandoning the use of landfills

Although there is no alternative to landfill use for waste management at present, a more appropriate location of landfills can be considered a possibility. Specifically, the regions, where groundwater flows are generally very low, can be viewed as an option (BRADFORD 2010).

Animal waste collection

While the process of collecting animal waste may be rather complicated due to the difficulties related to tracing the locations of stray animals, making people take proper care of their pets and picking up the droppings left by the latter can be carried out comparatively easily by issuing the corresponding laws.

Global warming prevention

A very complex and difficult task, it involves a variety of measures starting from the sustainable use of resources to the transfer to driving hybrid vehicles and refrain from usage of a variety of pollutants including aerosols.

Marine sustainability

Introducing a set of more rigid regulations regarding the waste disposal for businesses along with the development of marine sustainability principles may help in not only preventing water pollution but also addressing the negative effects that it has caused.

Sanitation

The U.S. authorities have adopted a range of programs aimed at water sanitation, including the USAIDs Water and Development Strategy (USAID, 2013).

Sustainable use of resources

The introduction of individuals and organizations to a reasonable usage of water has recently been viewed as an opportunity in the United States.

Sustaining ecosystems: green infrastructure

Likewise, the key principles of sustainability should be adopted when allowing the key ecosystems to retain their

Addressing nonpoint source pollution

Clean Water Act

Another suggestion for reconsidering the current rates of water usage, the CWA presupposes that the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States (Summary of the Clean Water Act, 2015) should be established and that similar regulations should be provided for the use of freshwater in the USA.

NPDES Permit Program

A program aimed at regulating the current use of water, it regulates the sources, which discharge pollutants into the ocean (NPDES Stormwater Permit Program, 2015).

Wastewater programs

The phenomenon of wastewater harvesting () has been created for the sake of reducing urban runoff and may have a significant effect on sustainable water use once the awareness regarding the subject matter is increased. Even a more adequate use of water by the residents of the area can be facilitated with the introduction of similar programs. The refusal to use impervious pavement materials for sidewalks and driveways should also be viewed as an option (Urban nonpoint source fact sheet, 2003).

Total maximum daily loads

Seeing that no alternative to waste disposal for major companies have been designed yet, the organizations that dump waste into the ocean have to comply with the existing restrictions on the amount of waste that they can deposit. Unfortunately, not all states follow the requirements set by the TMDL Act (see Appendix A).

Watershed management

Likewise, the watershed management approach, which presupposes that careful studies of the watershed should be carried out with the following location of the problem areas and the measurers designed for addressing the emerging issues in a manner as timely and efficient as possible. There is no secret that watershed management presupposes dealing with not only the issue of water pollution but also the problem of habitat destruction. In other words, watershed management programs adopted in the USA currently allow for handling several issues simultaneously and, therefore, promoting a more sustainable approach towards the consumption and usage of the existing water resource.

Green infrastructure

The aforementioned sustainability issue can be attained through a series of actions that are determined for enhancing habitat recovery. Indeed, as it has been stressed above, the lack of sustainability in the management of the water resources in the USA triggers an immediate decay of the existing variability in American nature. As a result, a range of species faces the threat of extinction, therefore, triggering the overpopulation of water with smaller animals and algae (i.e., the elements that used to be the food of the extinct species). Thus, by restoring the habitats that have been destroyed, the American community will be capable of replenishing water resources or, at the very least, saving the ones that they still have at their disposal.

National Water Quality Initiative

Though having started their activity comparatively recently, the proponents of the NWQI movement have already designated approximately five percent of EQIP financial assistance to targeted agricultural conservation practice implementation in 165 HUC 12 NWQI watersheds (Session M5: quantifying agricultural nonpoint sources and controls, 2013, p. 2).

Fostering personal responsibility

Last, but not least, the idea of promoting personal responsibility as the basis for sustainable water use must be viewed as an option.

Conclusion: Spring Cleaning on a Global Scale

Although water is traditionally viewed as a renewable resource, the nonpoint pollution factors in the United States make the threat of water scarcity dangerously high. Therefore, a more sustainable approach towards the use of water not only industrial but also household levels must be introduced into the framework of the U.S. water usage.

Reference List

ADMIN, 2011. US farming and irrigation water usage statistics. Sea Metrics, Web.

BELIN, F. 2015. EPP2 Water Discharge Consent, exemption, Permit, legislation for Septic Tanks and off-mains systems. Biorock, Web.

BRADFORD, A. 2010. Pollution facts & types of pollution. Live Science, Web.

Comparison against other fossil fuels, 2015. Swarthmore College. Web.

National summary of impaired waters and TMDL information, 2015. States Environmental Protection Agency. Web.

NPDES Stormwater Permit Program, 2015. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Web.

Oil spills and disasters, 2014. Infoplease. Web.

Research project description, 2014. Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. Web.

Session M5: quantifying agricultural nonpoint sources and controls, 2013. Advisory Committee on Water Information. Web.

Summary of the Pollution Prevention Act, 1990. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Web.

THE EDITORIAL BOARD, 2015. Gov. Christies bad deal with Exxon. New York Times, p. 1. Web.

Urban nonpoint source fact sheet, 2003. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Web.

USAID, 2013. Water and development strategy. USAID, pp. 133, Web.

Water pollution facts, n. d. Conserve energy, p. 1 Web.

A brief introduction of the article

The article under review is titled Nebraska Pollution Prevention Project: Engineering Education through Technical Assistance written by Dvorak, Woldt, Hygnstrom, Dahab and Schulte (2003). The article is about Nebraskas Partners in Pollution Prevention program and the benefits it has brought to the state in the reduction of pollution caused by small businesses. This program essentially recruits Engineering students who are trained in pollution prevention and work as interns in selected businesses and provide the businesses with technical assistance.

Analysis of the key points in the article

Nebraskas Partners in Pollution Prevention (P3) program has had significant positive outcomes not only on environmental preservation in the state but also on the interns. To begin with, the program has enhanced its efforts in recommending cost-effective pollution prevention strategies to its clients. It has also broadened the range of technical assistance provided by the interns to the clients, for instance, through the inclusion of energy conservation strategies (Dvorak et al., 2003).

Second, the P3 program has enhanced the level of awareness creation in the communities through public education. The interns educate the public on pollution prevention through workshops, presentations and media channels such as newspapers, television, and the radio. Third, the interns involved in the P3 program have gained valuable knowledge about pollution prevention and business communication through the hands-on experience made possible by the program. Fourth, the P3 program involves graduate students who not only assist the undergraduate interns in complex matters but also conduct their research on pollution issues. The research studies undertaken by graduate students are used as case studies and also help them in creating new modeling tools for life-cycle analysis (Dvorak et al., 2003).

Application and comparison of some points in the article that might be applied to the company you work for, or have worked for

Several points can be applied to the company I have worked for. The first is conducting a waste evaluation of the companys operations to determine the chemical components of the waste and whether or not the waste can be utilized in further production. The second is identifying the technological innovations invented by the company and comparing them with the latest technologies in the market and recommending which latest technology the company should implement to minimize waste. Lastly, conducting an economic evaluation of the companys current operations and the proposed operations to determine the cost-effectiveness of both operations and recommend which operation the company should adopt.

Summary of the articles conclusions

Dvorak et al. (2003) conclude by arguing that the success of Nebraskas P3 program is dependent on many factors which include the stipend provided to the interns, the mentoring opportunity, the technical nature of the tasks given, the logistical support granted. Another important element of the program is the two-week intensive training course which equips interns with knowledge and minimized the need to supervise the interns.

Summary of the article using your own opinions

The article by Dvorak et al. (2003) has valuable information about how one program can go a long way in preserving the environment by reducing the rate of pollution from small businesses. It also shows that with a little motivation, young people can play a key role in environmental conservation. Involving young people in environmental activities is crucial because they are the future leaders and future business owners. With such knowledge and skills, conserving the environment for the present and future generations will no longer be just an illusion.

Reference

Dvorak, B. I., Woldt, W. E., Hygnstrom, J., Dahab. M. F., & Schulte, D. (2003). Nebraska Pollution Prevention Project: Engineering Education through Technical Assistance. Environmental Quality Management, 43-57.

Introduction

Plastics have become major environmental concern largely due to the myriad of negative health effects posed on both human and animal health in the immediate surroundings. Exposure to harmful chemical that are transferred from plastics is a dangerous global threat due to some of the most severe, harmful, and long lasting negative health effects and implications to the environment. In addition, it is worth noting that exposure to the non-biodegradable plastic particles have a long term effect. Thrift (2012) acknowledges that many people are exposed to health dangers posed by plastics largely owing to the fact that the latter pollutes the environment through leakages of toxic chemicals from plastic packages that are used to pack foodstuff and water. Therefore, the rising levels of pollution due to plastics and subsequent health problems spell deep rooted health challenge that is burdensome to address. Much of the effort that has been put in place by business organizations, government agencies as well as non-governmental organizations to control the use of plastics so as to minimize environmental pollution has fallen short of the necessary emphatic application of principles that can provide the much needed safe and healthy environment for all. It is on this front that this paper intrinsically explores pollution caused by plastic materials.

Plastics and health problems

The use of plastics by people and organizations has in the last few decades grown massively to shocking levels. This has been attributed to the high levels of reliance on plastics to make clothing for people as well as for making pools, hot tubs, safety PVC ropes and stair treads at home (At a glance, 2012). Besides, businesses and manufacturing industries have employed the use plastics to package foodstuff and water. Thrift (2012) indicates that among businesses and individuals, the use of plastics has gained popularity because they are flexible, malleable for designing houses and electronics, inexpensive in subsidized markets, light weight and resistant to breakages especially when exposed to external pressure.

However, it is important to note that regardless of the many pleasant and appealing uses of plastics, the numerous health problems and dangers presented to the environment are gruesome. Morris (2012) indicates that the effects of plastic on health are due to its carcinogens, direct toxicity via mercury, cadmium and lead in addition to leakages from phthalates, adipates and plasticizers in poly vinyl chloride (PVC). The carcinogenetic agent in polyvinyl chloride has been a major area of study with specific attentions to the risks and epidemiological presentation it poses to the environment. It is worth noting that poly vinyl is one of the many brittle plastics that are commonly used to make toys and food packaging materials. Other plastics used for packaging especially food stuffs include PET, polyethylene and polystyrene. Foster and McChesney (2012) indicate that the chemicals used to make the aforementioned plastics may contain harmful substances which may easily contaminate foodstuffs. For instance, PET releases Acetaldehyde, PVC releases plasticizers while polyethylene releases antioxidants and polystyrene gives out styrene. Studies conducted by Food Additives and Contaminants revealed that polypropylene, HDPE and LDPE plastic bottles release considerable amounts of Irganox 1010, Irganix 1076, Irganox PS 800, Chimarsobb 81 and BHT. When these substances are released, they find their way into important liquids such as ethanol, water and vegetable oil.

Kippler et al (2012) indicate that significant health related issues from plastics especially those from polyvinyl chloride used for packaging, water pipes, cosmetics and plastic wraps are related to dioxins, additives, incineration products and its carcinogenic precursor known as vinyl chloride monomer. When the aforementioned chemicals are exposed through the process of chemical migration, they have the potential of causing massive health impacts on both plants and animals. Dioxins have been major sources of incapacitating reversible and serious health complications like endometriosis, different cancers, reproductive disorders and immune system suppression. Other related dangers include the release of bisphenol A from polycarbonate plastics in bottled waters. This causes hyperactivity, diabetes, obesity, onset of puberty, impaired immune function and cancers. Besides, Thrift (2012) in his publication mentions other plastics such as tetrafluoro-ethylene which are known to cause potential breathing difficulties as well as throat, eyes and nose irritations. In addition, acrylic for making clothing carpets and blankets is known to cause fatigue, headache, breathing difficulties and nausea, and polyurethane form in pillows, mattresses and cushions which cause bronchitis and severe lung problems.

Solutions

The health dangers associated with environmental exposure to plastics as Warren (2004) reflects in his study on pollution is very extensive. Besides affecting individuals who come into contact with them, plastics pollute the environment, the atmosphere, soil and water pathways. An increase in the manufacture and use of plastics as well as the potential health effects caused by exposure to plastics is indeed an issue of health concern that is yet to be resolved fully especially in developing economies. Indeed, one should not merely lay the blame on industries which are carrying out their normal routines of production and waste disposal. It is worth noting that government agencies should also be brought on spotlight for continuous neglect and poor policies on environmental health. Clearly, from the environmental justice perspective, pollution of environment by plastic wastes especially due to poor positioning of hazardous waste sites among poor communities indicates a level of discrimination by concerned bodies. Since the dangers presented by plastics are highly intertwined and demand central application of the correct policies to address them, governments should consider creating appropriate dumping sites and prior analysis of toxic wastes and their effects should be established to determine the expected negative effects and therefore address them to prevent disasters.

Mack (2012) points out that addressing the exposure to toxic substances leaking from plastic containers that are used to pack is a key facet in dictating how communities and states need to be prepared in ensuring that the environment is protected. Businesses should also limit excessive manufacturing of plastic commodities. This will lower the exposure to toxins by plastic users as well as significantly reducing environmental degradation from industrial plastic wasters. The major hindrance to reducing the manufacture of plastics as Meierotto (2012) posits is the practice of businesses and industries which embrace the Marxist model of maximizing their returns at the expense of an endangered environment. Planners too have failed to focus on this danger by putting up structures that promote continued emission of toxic substances. Efforts to reduce environmental exposure through professional ethics are indeed necessary to promote a safe and healthy environment.

The media can also be used to raise awareness especially among the affected communities and playing a key role in highlighting the extent of the environmental pollution through plastics and providing reports on how effective environmental policies should be enacted towards ensuring a healthy environment. According to Warren (2004), different press releases have shown the importance of conserving the environment by limiting use of plastics. The latter is of critical importance since it has enabled various affected communities to identify leaders who have failed to fast track environmental conservation caused by plastics. In fact, press releases clearly indicate that some leaders have ignored the important aspect of health and well being of the people they represent, and instead followed other special interests and given corporate polluters first priority. Indeed, this could be the reason why there is massive contamination of food, water and soil with pollution from raw plastics and industrial wastes from chemical substances derived from plastics.

To sum up, the discussion in the paper has highlighted some of the important uses of plastics in everyday social and economic life. Some of the major uses of plastics include packaging, making clothing and shipping. However, plastics have turned out to be major causes of pollution to the environment and human beings through leakages of toxic chemicals which contaminate food, soil and block waterways. The effect of plastic pollution has drastic health impacts some of which include respiratory problems, cancer and reproductive disorders. The discussion has concluded by reiterating the importance of relevant environmental agencies in developing policies which will limit production and use of plastic products. In addition, the research paper has deduced that while plastic products may be useful in everyday life, the harmful chemical exposure of this substance has led to myriad of environmental problems due to the negative impacts on human health.

References

At a glance (2012). Environmental Health Perspectives, 120(3), A96-A100.

Foster, J. B., & McChesney, R. W. (2012). The global stagnation and china. Monthly Review, 63(9), 1-28.

Kippler, M. et al. (2012). Maternal cadmium exposure during pregnancy and size at birth: A prospective cohort study. Environmental Health Perspectives, 120(2), 284-289.

Mack, T. C. (2012). Rethinking return on investment: What we really need to invest in. The Futurist, 46(2), 36-40.

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Morris, M. (2012). Sustainability: An exercise in futility. International Journal of Business and Management, 7(2), 36-44.

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As population is increasing, pollution is becoming a massive global problem with far reaching consequences. The lifestyles of the modern people have changed as their actions contribute to wider magnitude in polluting the environment. Air, land, water, radioactive and terrestrial pollution has affected millions of people lives around the globe, even causing death and contributing to the effects of global warming.

It is therefore evident that indeed pollution is a threat to the survival of people and if stringent measures are not improvised, it remains a bomb in waiting to explode. Pollution is human made, pausing devastating health issues among the community at large, and its management cuts across all spectrums of societies including cultural, political, ethnic, and educational backgrounds

Forms of pollution

Various forms of pollution have contributed in the pollution of the environment. These include air, light, soil, water, soil/land, radioactive contamination, thermal pollution, littering among many others. Air pollution is one of the leading forms of communication.

This type of pollution results from emission or release of toxic chemical particles into the atmosphere (Bingheng, Haidong, Renjie, Songhui, and Chuanjie 1292). Some forms of air pollution include sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide; nitrogen oxides produced by industries, chlorofluorocarbons, and combustion of motor vehicles fuels.

Noise pollution consists of industrial noises, aircraft vehicle hooting and playing of loud music. This kind of pollution has effects o n the hiring capabilities of people as it may affect their hearing coordination. Radioactive contamination emanates from activities such as atomic physics and the generation of nuclear power such as manufacturing and testing of nuclear weapons.

Water pollution on the other hand results from discharge of ewer water or industrial wastes into water surfaces that are used for domestic use. Such water posses a health risks to those people depending on such water.

Land or soil pollution is yet another form of pollution that continues to affect the livelihood of human beings. This form of pollution occurs when chemical leak or spill into the underground soil. These chemical include hydrocarbons, heavy metals, chlorinated hydrocarbons, pesticides, and herbicides.

Such components have a health risk to the survival of human beings as they may hinder the growth of products hence denying people the opportunity to plant crops hence leading to starvation. All these forms of pollution are aided by human beings action in their quest to earn a living. Even though, these pollutions have bad effects on the health of the population and the society, many people do little to reduce these effects.

Effects of pollution

Pollution has adverse effects on the health of the people. Adverse air pollution posses threats to many lives of living organism. For instance, pollution of the ozone layer may cause problems of respiratory diseases, throat inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, chest pain, and even congestion. Apart from posing health risks to human beings, pollution from air posses a threat to the survival of living organisms such as birds and other animals that, depend on fresh oxygen.

Therefore, pollution of air, concerns the whole community and society and for the problem to be averted, their input and involvement is necessary. According to Krautz, water pollution causes an approximately 1,400 deaths in a day (144). Most of those people who succumb to deaths as a result of water pollution drink contaminated water; untreated sewerage water from companies.

Most of deaths are in the developing countries, as most of them have no working policies on industrial water pollution. Poverty has also contributed to pollutions of water, for instance, in India it is estimated that around 700 million people have no access to good/proper toilet leading to many children deaths in a year averaging to 1000. Statistics of deaths resulting from air and water pollution are alarming.

In China, many people are dying as a result air pollution. An approximate of 527,700 fatalities is recorded resulting from air pollution due to increased industrialization. Noise pollution causes hearing loss, sleep disturbances, stress, and even contributed to high blood pressure among the people. These are problems that people continue to experience and unknowing they affect their lives and even shorten their life expectancy.

Environmental effects

Pollutions have effects on the environment. All these forms of pollutions take place in the environment and therefore, this leaves it exposed to a number of effects. Pollution of the environment causes emission of green gases that leads to global warming that eventually affects the ecosystems in a multiplicity of ways.

Furthermore, smog in the air is able to reduce the amount of sunlight that is received by plants to carry out photosynthesis leading to crop failure resulting to an outbreak of hunger. Pollution can also make soil to become infertile and unsuitable to support plants. This may affect the living organs in soil and even the potential of the soil to support plants. Acid rain that is destructive is also caused by sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides that lower the PH of the soil leading to crop failure.

Regulation of pollution

The rate at which the environment is being polluted is alarming and as some of the measures to curb the ever-increasing rate, a number of policies and measures have been put in place. For instance, many nations in the world have enacted legislations and formulated policies geared at regulating various types of pollutions and mitigate the adverse effects of pollution.

In most countries, the initiative to regulate pollution is under the government while others have given the mandate to other branches or non-governmental institutions to regulate pollution from industries and households. As a result, there has been locking of heads and disagreements on how these programs should be implemented with parties with interests objecting some reforms because of fear of running into losses (Harrison 6). It is therefore, apparent that, for the environment to be free from pollution all members of the society should be brought into the framework and be responsible for their actions. The government, the education sector , the community members, all the ethnic groups should work in tandem at ensuring that they avoid polluting their environment.

Governments have come up with different policies in their quest to eradicate pollution. For instance, most of them have intensified their campaigns and they now look beyond their national borders in pursuant of clean environment (Harrison 4). According to Harrison, many governments are seeking priority pollutants that tend to persist in environments for longer periods and use them instead (4). Many initiatives have also been initiated geared at protecting the aquatic environment from priority pollutants in order to protect marine waters (Harrison 4). Furthermore, several governments have also accepted approaches of prioritizing pollutant control. Some of these include replacement of chemicals and using more environmentally friendly chemical, reduction of use of priority pollutants, careful use of these chemicals in order to reduce accidents and or adventitious loss and waste.

In UK for example, legislations have been enacted geared at regulating direct discharges to water and indirect discharges to sewer. These regulations are controlled via permitting systems (Harrison 4). The main legislations include the environmental protection act of 1990, the water resources act of 1991 and water industry act of 1991 for discharges to sewer (Harrison 6). These legislations serve to regulate, monitor, and control any illegal or not up to standard ways of discharge.

According to Sell, agricultural losses caused by air pollution runs into hundreds of millions of dollars annually (9). For instance, much of the losses and damages that are witnessed in California are caused by pollutions in the air. Damage caused to crops ranges from visible to those that affect the growth and productivity of crops leading to destroying of life (Sell 10). Furthermore, air pollution affects the climate both regionally and global wise. For example, regionally, rainfall can be altered through the presence of air pollution (Sell 12).

US for example, has over the past put in place legislations that would ensure that water pollution is contained. For instance, the refuse act of 1899 presented dumping of wastes into national navigation rivers. U.S army corps of engineers enforced the laws. The law was revived in 1972 by the then president Nixon. The law required an approximate 40,000 industrial plants discharging wastes into navigable rivers to specify the quantity and the type and to apply for a permit to discharge the wastes. This was one of the government initiate and will to control water pollution (Nelly 26).

Environmental conservation can also be management by educating the public and key industries on the importance of ensuring that they keep the environment clean. Schools and learning institutions should be entrenched in the school curriculum in order to educate the students on how to keep the environment clean. Furthermore, before granting a license to investors interested in investing in an industrial plant, the investor should comply with the environmental regulations that requires proper disposal of their wastes.

Cutting of trees contributes to pollution of the environment. A good case was in China in 1998 when China witnessed flooding along the Yangtze River. As a measure to curb further flooding, the government banned tree cutting hence leading to prevention of flooding (Hill 4).

Main causes of pollution

According to Hill, the main cause of pollution is the growing human population, increased or growing rate of consumption and the large scale technological advancements when more industries are set up to engage in the production process (4).

These factors, to larger extend have contributed to almost all forms of pollution that the world currently is experiencing. For instance, higher percentage of atmospheric green gas emissions, carbon dioxide emissions, water pollution are caused by human actions. Therefore, the world will continue to experience effects of pollution if urgent measures are not put in place.

Refutation against pollution

According to Lioy and Georgopoulos, pollution cannot be eliminated 100% as there are a number of causes (1352). This observation is true and therefore it provides a loophole in the laxities of laws by some government in dealing with such cases. Some governments have blamed the continued pollution on cultural and ethnic and politics. Yes, these factors may prevent effective war against pollution. Politics is one of the factors that has been cited as able to bar proper implementation of legislations to eradicate pollutions.

Nevertheless, pollution can be solved by legislations. For example, establishment of more smoking zones, putting smoke filters, can manage air pollution and chimneys in industrial buildings, control on the kind of fuels that are used in cars, power stations and aeroplanes. Water pollution can be avoided by the communities themselves reasoning logically and being wise enough not to pollute the water. Industries that lead in water pollution should be held responsible and monitored through legislations.

Soil or land pollution on the other hand can be managed through, anti liter campaigns aimed at educating people on responsible littering, dumping of organic materials in areas far from residential places and inorganic material such as metal and plastics, glass should be recycled or reserved a specific place of dumping.

Conclusion

Pollution is a big problem that faces the world. The world population is increasing at a very high rate, technology is growing fast, and the rate of consumption of products is increasing. Every sound-minded person is supposed to be cautious about what they engage in and work hard to contribute in keeping their environment clean. Even with government enacting legislations, the buck still stops with the people.

We either destroy our ecosystem or try to make it a good place. Even though we cannot control pollution 100%, efforts geared at reducing the already polluted environment and that to ensure or curb further pollution should be exhibited. Therefore, the communities at large have the responsibility of ensuring that pollution is avoided.

Works Cited

Bingheng, Chen, Haidong, Kan, Renjie, Chen, Songhui, Jiang, and Chuanjie, Hong. Air Pollution and Health Studies in ChinaPolicy Implications. Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association, 61.11 (2011): 1292-1299. Print.

Harrison, Roy. Pollution: causes, effects and control. UK: Paston PrePress Ltd, 2001. Print.

Hill, Marquita. Understanding Environmental pollution. Cambridge: Cambridge university press, 2010. Print.

Krautz, Joachim. Poisoning the fount of life  fresh water pollution and its consequences. Contemporary Review, 265.1544 (1994):144. Print.

Lioy, Paul, and Georgopoulos, Panos. New Jersey: A Case Study of the Reduction in Urban and Suburban Air Pollution from the 1950s to 2010. Environmental Health Perspectives, 119.10 (2011): 1351-1355. Print.

Sell, Nancy. Industrial Pollution Control: Issues and Techniques. John Wiley &Sons, Inc: New York, 1992. Print.

Introduction

This paper presents a critique of an article on air pollution and the illnesses associated with it. The article focuses its argument on environment and health issues and discusses a research conducted on air pollution and risk factor respiratory illness which involved researching school children in southern Nigeria.

Hypothesis

The purpose of the article presented was to test the relationship of the respiratory system illness and air pollution in developing countries, especially in Africa. The research conducted by Adetoun et al, was investigating outdoor and indoor air pollutions. Air pollution was evident in schools and other prone environments such as roads and oil refining plants in Southern Nigeria. It was hypothesized that air pollution results from activities such as using fuel, coal in particular, and paraffin in cooking in most houses in Nigeria. The article also centers on the relationship between air pollution and respiratory illness such as wheeze, night cough phlegm, rhinitis and doctor-diagnosed asthma (Adetoun et al. 1).

Problem Statement

The article addresses the association of respiratory diseases and air pollution in developing countries. The research attempts to measure the amount of indoor and outdoor air pollution caused by poor ventilation in houses, overcrowding in one room, air traffic pollution caused by motorcycles, cars and petrol refining plants. Social and economic impact was a significant concern in conducting the research since it gave the relationship between air pollution and the doctor-diagnosed cases of asthma in Southern Nigeria.

The article also touches upon air pollution issues in developing countries, specifically in Africa and, consequently, revealed the causes and implications of air pollution to society in these countries. The article recognized the shortcomings of research done by past researchers on air pollution, particularly in Africa. Mustapha et al, conducted a comprehensive research on air pollution in Southern Nigeria, an environmental setting which consisted of poor social economic background students.

Such environment correlates with the overall composition of African population. Adetoun et al. based their research on an environment consisting of air pollution complexes, for instance, oil refinery plant and air traffic pollution in Warri city in Southern Nigeria. Therefore, this research is valid in investigating air pollution and the resultant effect in respiratory illnesses in Africa.

The problem of air pollution and its implication to health addressed by the article affects a large African Population. Most African countries do not invest in air pollution control measures since most of the African countries are poor and strive to meet their budgets and basic needs. On the other hand, most of the African countries lack favorable political environment to foster implementation strategies to control air pollution. Therefore, according to Adetoun et al, choice of the environmental topic on air pollution was significantly relevant since it dealt with the right composition of population. and also conducted a research on a topic that presents a prevalent problem affecting African countries.

This article can be justified after analyzing the information presented. Considering the air pollution problem articulated in this research imminent issues which past researchers have constantly ignored, are under focus in this article. This, therefore, demands attention to contain the distressing condition that currently prevails in African environment. Most of the African populations are ignorant or not aware of the implication of air pollution and their health condition. Therefore, this article ignites a conscious consideration of air pollution measures to be established in developing countries, namely, in Africa.

Methods Used

The research presented in the article engaged the use of cross-sectional survey that involved a population of 1,397 schoolchildren (Adetoun et al. 1). Emission variables, such as cars, cooking materials used in Southern Nigeria households measured the amount of air pollution in outdoor and indoor environments, and presented the data obtained from the findings in the article.

Various statistical methods of data analysis were used to explain the data collected and presented in tables and graphs in the article. The data presented in the article show all the variables tested during the research. It is well organized as evident in tables provided in this article. Two tables represent the data collected in this article. The first table represents variables, for instance, physical factors that contribute to air pollution such as gas emission from cars, oil plants, trucks, and soil particles air pollution experienced in Warri schools in southern Nigeria (Adetoun et al, 3).

The second table shows the relationship between air pollutants. It shows environmental factors and health variables such as wheeze, night cough, phlegm, rhinitis and doctor-diagnosed asthma as well as it represents household prevalence factors that pollute the environment (Adetoun et al, 4).

The tables in the article present all the relevant data required to analyze the impact of air pollution and respiratory illnesses along with the useful data for proper analysis of the information provided.

Authors General Conclusion

The authors conclude that air pollution is associated with most respiratory illness as seen in the analysis of the data in the article. However, they noted that illnesses such as doctor-diagnosed asthma show low prevalence according to the finding in research in Southern Nigeria. This is because most of the examined population came from poor social and economic backgrounds and hence, they are ignorant or lack the means to be tested. The authors also focused on the challenges they met while conducting research and asserts that it might have caused an underestimate of the size and figures represented in the article (Adetoun et al. 6).

Analysis of the Article

The article presents findings on air pollution, a phenomena that have been sidelined by past researchers. It provides readers with adequate informationon how air pollutions relates significantly with respiratory illnesses in African societies. The authors of this article conducted a comprehensive research on indoor and outdoor factors that propagate respiratory complications. They also accounted for the social and economic factors and explained the relationship with the respiratory diseases. The finding of this article is extremely influential, since it provides information that is fundamental to promote environmental policies in African countries to curb air pollution. The article presents its discussion in a well-organized manner and show all the steps involved by the researcher.

Recommendation and conclusion

Authors of this article experienced some difficulties in conducting the air pollution research because they conducted the research in interior environments of Southern Nigeria. The tools that they were using presented some power problems. Most of the rural African environments have electricity problems, therefore, in future researchers there should come saver machines with power to help them conduct such research to avoid underestimation of data collected.

Works Cited

Adetoun, Blangiardo, DavidBriggs, and Anna, Hansell. Traffic Air Pollution and Other Risk Factors for Respiratory Illness in Schoolchildren in the Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria, United Kingdom:MRC-HPA Centre for Environment and Health, 2011. Print.

Water and Air Pollution

Brazil has a diverse collection of flora and fauna and is home to numerous animal and plant species. However, the survival of these species is threatened by widespread air and water pollution that has become a national pandemic. Causes of this pollution include mining activities, oil spills, degradation wetlands, agricultural activities, and industrialization. Two main effects of pollution include an increased threat to the survival of endangered species and high mortality rates due to damaging health effects.

An endangered species such as the sea turtle is at risk of extinction. Massive destruction of marine habitat due to water pollution is a contributing factor. Water and air pollution cause adverse health problems that affect the lives of many Brazilians. Also, many animal and plant species face the threat of extinction. The extent of water pollution was evident from the numerous problems experienced during the 2016 Rio Olympic Games (Tracy, 2016). The venues for water sports were severely polluted by raw sewage from surrounding neighborhoods (Tracy, 2016).

Air pollution in Brazil is majorly caused by rapid urbanization and industrial development that has defined the countrys economic growth in the last few decades (Anderson, 2009). The construction of infrastructure was conducted with little regard for the environment. Half of the deaths caused by air pollution originating from outdoor pollution while the rest are caused by household pollution. There is a high concentration of harmful gases and substances such as acetaldehyde, nitrogen oxides, and ethanol in the air (Anderson, 2009).

These substances have negative health impacts on people and animals. Another effect of air pollution is acid rain. High concentrations of toxic gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon dioxide cause acid rain that kills plant and animal species (Anderson, 2009). Sewage waste, industrial waste, landfill leaks, ethanol, and agricultural activities are major sources of water pollution in Brazil. The main environmental effects of pollution include the destruction of marine habitats, water scarcity, and anoxia.

The sea turtle is under danger of extinction because of habitat destruction by water pollution. In many cities where industrial waste and sewage effluent are directed into rivers and other water bodies, people are facing freshwater scarcity and experiencing incidences of waterborne diseases (Tracy, 2016). Anoxia leads to the death of marine animals because it causes stress due to the low availability of oxygen.

Air and water pollution in Brazil is a pandemic that needs to be addressed. Water scarcity, adverse health effects, high mortality rates, and increased threat to endangered species are some effects of widespread pollution. The situation will continue to worsen if the government does not take speedy action. The issue of water and air pollution in Brazil can be remedied by enacting laws that illegalize the release of toxic substances into water bodies and, that control the release of toxic gases into the atmosphere(Bailey, 2016).

Industrialization and urbanization programs should be micromanaged to ensure that they implement environmental conservation strategies. The government and non-governmental organizations should create awareness regarding the dangers of air and water pollution on the people and animals. Moreover, the government should construct more stations for recycling wastewater.

Response to Discussion Post

The example offered is valid because China is experiencing widespread air and water pollution due to rapid industrialization. The statistics included in the discussion offer insights into the severity of the pollution problem in China. I agree with the ideas presented in the discussion. However, the writer has not discussed the environmental impacts of pollution that the Chinese are experiencing. The discussion contains so many statistics that the main points are excluded. The conclusion is informative because the writer includes strategies to alleviate the problem of air and water pollution in China. The writer could have improved the discussion by providing more information on the strategies mentioned.

References

Anderson, L. G. (2009). Ethanol fuel use in Brazil: air quality Impact. Energy & Environmental Science, 2, 1015-1037.

Bailey, M. (2016). The Olympians can leave. Brazils poor live with filthy, reeking water every day. Web.

Tracy, B. (2016). Severe water pollution clouds the Olympic Games in Rio. Web.