ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

Definition causes, effects and control measures of: (a) Air pollution (b) Water pollution (c) Soil
pollution (d) Marine pollution (e) Noise pollution (f) Thermal pollution (g) Nuclear hazards
soil waste management: causes, effects and control measures of municipal solid wastes role of
an individual in prevention of pollution pollution case studies disaster management: floods,
earthquake, cyclone and landslides. Field study of local polluted site Urban / Rural / Industrial /
Agricultural.

Pollution
Pollution is explained as any substance introduced into the environment that adversely
affects the usefulness of resources.
Pollution can be in the form of solid, liquid or gaseous substance. Pollution causes damage
to human, plant and animal life. The nature and concentration of pollutant determine the severity
of effect of pollution.
Pollution is defined as the excess discharge of any substance into the environment which
affects adversity quality of environment and causing damage to humans, plants and animals.
Types Pollutants
Ecologically, pollutants can be divided into three types
1. Degradable or non persistent pollutants
2. Slowly degradable or persistent pollutants
3. Non degradable pollutants.
Degradable or non persistent pollutants
The pollutants that can be rapidly decomposed by natural processes is called degradable or non-
persistent pollutants.
Slowly degradable pollutants
Some pollutants remain in environment for longer time because they decompose very slowly by
the natural processes.
Example: plastics, pesticides, etc.
Non-degradable pollutants
Some pollutants can not be decomposed by natural processes are called non-
degradable pollutants.
Example Lead, mercury, nuclear wastes etc.
Classification of pollution
The pollutants that pollute the environment is divided into following types
1. Air pollution
2. Water pollution
3. Soil Pollution
4. Marine pollution
5. Noise pollution
6. Thermal pollution
7. Nuclear hazards

Air pollution
It is defined as the undesirable contamination of gas, smoke, dust, fume, mist, odour, or
chemical particulates in the atmosphere which are injurious to human beings, plants and animals.
Causes of air pollution
1. Industrialization
2. Urbanization
3. Vehicles emission
4. Deforestation
5. Population
Types of air pollutants
Air pollutants can broadly classified into two types-
1. Primary pollutants
2. Secondary pollutants
Primary pollutants
Pollutants that are emitted directly from either natural events or from human activities are
called primary pollutants. The natural events are dust storms; volcano etc and human activities
can be emission from vehicles, industrial wastes.
About 90% of global air pollution is constituted by five primary pollutants. These are
1. Carbon oxides (CO and CO2)
2. Nitrogen oxides
3. Sulphur oxides
4. Hydrocarbons
5. Particulate matter

Secondary pollutants
Primary pollutants when reacting with each other or from basic components of air; forms a new
pollutants called secondary pollutant. For example sulphuric acid, nitric acid, carbonic acid,
etc.
Degradable pollutants
The pollutants that can be rapidly decomposed by natural processes is called degradable or non-
persistent pollutants. Example domestic sewage, discarded vegetable etc.
2. Slowly degradable pollutants
Some pollutant remains in environment for longer time because they decompose very slowly by
the natural processes.Example Plastics, pesticides, etc,
3. Non degradable pollutants
Some pollutants cannot be decomposed by natural processes are called non degradable
pollutants. Example Lead, mercury, nuclear wasters etc.
Air pollution can broadly classified into two types-
1. Primary pollution
Pollutants that are emitted directly from either natural events or from human activities are called
primary pollution. The natural events are dust storms, volcano etc and human activities can be
emission from vehicles, industrial wastes .About 90% of global air pollution is constituted by
five primary pollution.

These are
i) Carbon oxides (CO and CO2) ii) Nitrogen oxides iii) Sulphur oxides iv) Hydrocarbons
v) Particulate matter
2. Secondary pollution
Primary pollutants when reaction, with each other or from basic components of air; forms
a new pollutants called secondary pollutant. For example sulphuric acid, carbonic. Etc.
Major Air pollutants
1. Carbon monoxide
It is a colourless, odourless, flammable gas, which is a product of incomplete combustion. If
carbon were completely oxidized during burning, complete combustion to carbon dioxide would
occur and carbon monoxide would not be a problem. It is important not to confuse carbon
monoxide with carbon dioxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an incomplete combustion product and
can be toxic even at low concentrations, whereas carbon dioxide (CO 2) is a complete oxidation
product.
Sources of Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide is formed whenever a carbon material is burned e.g. automobile exhausts,
cigarettes etc. In addition to motor vehicles, sources of carbon monoxide include burning coal,
natural gas or biomass. Biomass combustion can be a significant source of exposure in rural
areas or in underdeveloped countries where it is burned for cooking, heating and even light.
Atmospheric oxidation of methane gas and other hydrocarbons and even light. Atmospheric
oxidation of methane gas and other hydrocarbons also produces carbon monoxide.
Effects of CO
Carbon monoxide accounts for more than 50% of air pollution nationwide and worldwide. It is a
pervasive pollutant. Worldwide, hundreds of millions monoxide-related illness, which include
headaches, dizziness and drowsiness. Reports show that about 11% heart failure caused by
excess carbon monoxide.
In the normal situation, the iron atom in the blood protein haemoglobin, picks up oxygen from
the lung and transports in to the bodys cells. There the haemoglobin releases oxygen and picks
up the waste gas carbon dioxide, which it transports back to the lungs and releases. After
releasing carbon dioxide, it picks up more oxygen. Carbon monoxide has 200 items greater
affinity for the iron in haemoglobin than does oxygen and interrupts this cycle by displacing
oxygen. The result is a lowered amount of oxygen reaching the heart which can lead to heart
failure in sensitive people. Carbon monoxide also has other adverse effects in the body. For
example, it interferes with the oxygen-carrying proteins in muscles.
When humans are exposed to CO, it forms carboxy haemoglobin at the expense of
oxyhaemoglobin. Tissues are thus deprived of oxygen and asphyxiation occurs. If the victim
continues to receive a high dosage of CO, then permanent brain damage and even death will
result. Initial symptoms include dizziness, headache, nausea and faintness.
Chronic exposure at 25 mg m-3 of CO in air causes cardiovascular problems which can be
particularly dangerous to a person who already suffers from such problems. The inhalation of 35
ppm for eight hours causes a loss in ability to learn and do complicated tasks, reduces
awareness, decreases manual dexterity, and disturb sleep activity.

Measures to reduce carbon monoxide

About half of the motor vehicle carbon monoxide emissions in this country are produced by only
10% of the vehicles. Efforts are being made to find and remove these vehicles from road. Car
can truck owners need to maintain their vehicles so that operate as cleanly as they were designed
to operate. Other measures to control carbon monoxide emissions include facilities that burn
fossil fuels or wood to maintain high burning efficiencies and prohibiting open burning trash and
garbage.
2. Sulphur dioxide
Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a Colourless gas with a sharp odour that accounts for about 18% of all
air pollution.
Sources: Chemical industries, Metals meltings, Pulp and paper mills,Oil refineries
Effects of Sulphur dioxide
Sulphur dioxide reacts with moisture in eyes, lungs and mucous membranes to form strong
irritating acid. It can trigger allergic reaction and asthama.
If moisture is present in the atmosphere, sulphur dioxides is converted into sulphuric acid or if
conditions are dry, into sulphate particulates. The tiny- only 0.1 to 1 mm in diameter-sulphuric
acid and sulphate particulates form aerosols. The aerosols contribute to the adverse healths
effects of smog and haze and also play a serious role in haze. Sulphuric acid and sulphate are
likewise directly involved in three serious global global change problems. Acidic deposition is
one of those.
The stratospheric ozone depletion, where by sulphate particles in the stratosphere provide
surfaces on which ozone-destroying reactions occur. A third major effect is the antiwarming
influence they exert in global climate change.
3. Nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide is a reddish brown irritating gas. They account for about 6% of pollution.
Sources of nitrogen dioxide: Motor vehicle exhausts, Gasoline Volcanoes, Lightning
4. Lead
Lead a highly useful metal has been mined for thousands of years. And it has been known
for thousands of years that lead is toxic to the nervous system. The level lead in modern human
skeletons and teeth is at least a hundred-fold greater than the level found in pre-industrial age
skeletons.
The combustion of alkyl lead additives in motor fuels accounts for major part of all lead
emission into the atmosphere. An estimated 80-90 percent of lead in ambient air derives from the
combustion of leaded petrol. The degree of pollution from this source differs from country to
country depending on motor vehicle density and the efficiency of effort to reduce the lead
content of petrol.
The mining and smeltering of lead ores create pollution problems in some areas. Children up to 6
years of age are a population at increased risk for lead exposure as well as for adverse health
effects as children have behaviour lead exposure as well as adverse health effects as children
have behaviour characteristics which increase the risk of lead exposure, the blood-brain barrier is
not yet fully developed in young children and hematological and neurological effects of lead
occur at lower threshold in children than in adults.
5.Particulate Matter
Particular matter is defined as single particles or aggregates of particles with diameters
greather than 2x10-10 m. some particulate matter is natural i.e. rain, snow, fog, hail and mist,
while others are often the result of human processes, e.g. smoke, soot and fumes. Some natural
particulates are affected by human actions such as fog and wind-blown soils. smoke and soot are
the products of incomplete combustions of coal, petrol and diesel fuels in furnaces, domestic
heating systems and vehicle engines.
Aerosols are mixture of minute solid or liquid particles suspended in air that from a haze or spoil
visibility.
The main problem to humans caused by atmosperic particulate matter is how far it is able to
penetrate the resporatory system. particles in the size range 30x10-6 to 100x10-6 m lodge in the
nasal cavity, larynre and trachea. range 30x10-6 to 100x10-6 m lodge in the nasal cavity, larynre
and trachea. some examples of particles of this size are pollen, fungal spores, cement dust and
coal dust. particles less than 15x10-6 m find their way into the bronchus and bronchioles e.g.
tabacco, smoke and fumes. particles of 4x10-6 m and less can enter alveoli where gaseous
exchange take place between the bloodtream and air e.g. asbestos dust, glass and viruses.

Particulate matter comes from two major sources. First, those emissions that come directly from
sources such as coal combustion, wind-blown dust and quarrying. these are called primary
particulates. Other particulars can be formed from chemical reactions between pollutant gases
such as sulphur dioxide, the oxides of nitrogen and ammonia such reactions lead to the formation
of solid sulpahte and nitrations. Organic aerosols may also be formed by the oxidation of volatile
organic compounds. These particulates are termed as secondary particulates are termed as
secondary particulates.
Emissions of particles smaller than 10m in diameter (PM10) are controlled to meet an EPA
standard of 150 micrograms per cubic meter (g/m3) of air. Although many cities barely meet
this standard studies have shown associations between very fine particulates and increased
respiratory problems and premature death rates at levels only one third of the standard. In the
near future, particulates of diameters 2.5m and less may be regulated.
Techniques to reduce air pollution
i) Reducing air pollutants from industry
Industry, in its broadest sense is a major contributor to air pollution. However, the management
of these sources of pollution has not always been undertaken in the most efficient manner. The
following two points should be considered in management strategy.
A holistic view of pollutant emissions must be taken. Thus strategies to reduce air pollution must
not lead, for example, to greater water pollution.
The whole process operation must be examined. Pollutants may actually represent losses of
valuable material (e.g. solvents), and measures to prevent their loss may actually save money.
Changing the nature of the fuel
Where pollutant emissions are due to the type of fuel being used for combustion modifying the
fuel can have significant effects on emissions.
Changing process conditions to reduce pollutant production
Some pollutants are produced during the process itself. Examples include the production of
nitrogen oxides during combustion, or dioxins during incineration. Alternations to the way that
processes are operated can significantly reduce the creation of these pollutants.
Clearing the flue gases
If it not possible to prevent the production of pollutants, then it is likely to be necessary to
prevent their release into the environment by cleaning the exhaust gases.

Reducing ammonia emissions from agriculture

The most important source of ammonia emissions from agriculture is that from livestock
waste. The ammonia may be emitted at any stage, from the production of the waste through to its
storage and use on the load.
Reducing nitrogen intake animals
Careful assessment of the protein requirements of livestock is an important means of
reducing the amount of nitrogen excreted. By matching live weight food requirements to
nitrogen excreted. By matching live weight food requirements to nitrogen input, it is generally
possible to reduce nitrogen intake by about 5 percent.
Animal housing
Intensive animal housing can producing important point sources of ammonia emissions. A
build up animal waste in moist conditions is ideal for pollution production. However, a wide
range of techniques are now available for its waste. Attempts to remove the waste through
scraping have only a small effect on ammonia emissions.
For poultry units, droppings should be dried rapidly. Deep litter systems alone do not really
reduce emissions. However, a reduction of up to one third can be achieved by regular mixing of
deep litter. For poultry kept in battery cages, droppings can be collected on conveyor belt
systems. If these droppings are rapidly removed to contained storage, a reduction in emissions of
up to 60 percent can be achieved.
Animal waste storage
It is generally not possible to use animal waste as it is produced. The waste is produced
continually through out the year, but spreadin is limited, for example, to periods between
cropping. Storage of waste is therefore required. Some waste storage does occur within animal
housing, but much is separate. It is possible to achieve a reduction of between 70 and 90 percent
in ammonia amissions by simply covering the waste.
Waste spreading
The spreading of waste is the cause of about one-half of the ammonia emissions from
agriculture. Spreading does also sometimes cause a public nuisance due to the odour produced in
the spreading operation. However, contrary to public perception, the actual spraying of waste
over land contributed to less than 1 percent of the ammonia emitted. Most of the emissions take
place within the first twenty four hours, as the waste lies on the land surface.
Managing pollution from motor vehicles
The problem of traffic pollution is a particulary difficult issue. Traffic volume is
increasing rapidly in almost every country in the world, and strategies to manage the resulting
pollution are desperately needed. There are a number of tyoesof management that can be adopted
:
1) Changing the type of fuel used to one that produces less pollution.
2) Removing inefficient and grossly polluting vehicles.
3) Adopting measures to clean the exhaust gases.

4) Attempting to manage the pollution once it has been produced.

5) Adopting measures to manage the use of motor vehicles.
Some of these measures are best adopted at national or international levels, others are open to
local management.
a) Managing fuel type
The best-known example of this has been the adoption of unleaded petrol. Lead is added
toincfease the octane level and there are two ways to produce the same effect in unleaded fuel.
The first is to improve the octane level of the petrol with a substitute for the lead, such as tertiary
butyl ether (TBE). Many countries have adopted strategies to reduce the lead in petrol. Its use is
completely banned in the US, Canada, Austria, Sweden and some other countries.
Options are also open for zero emission vehicles. In essence this means electric vehicles
and the term zero emission is only partially true. Thus while the vehicles themselves do not
produce emissions. The degree towhich alternative fuels can be adopted relies heavily on
consumer responses. For example, consumers need to be sure that supplies are available. This is
a big problem for gas, electricity and biofuels in many countries where outlets may be limited.
b) Removing gross polluters
 While many estimates can e given of emission from different types of motor vehicles and
fuel type, is evident that older vehicles and those which are incorrectly maintained contribute a
disproportionate amount to aerial pollution.
c) Cleaning exhaust gases
Catalysts do not deal with the problem of particulate emissions. Most transport
particulate are produced form diesel vehicles. It is possible to fit a simple particulate trap in the
exhaust.
d) Traffic management
One alternative to prevention and management of traffic emissions is to reduce the need
for or the use of motor vehicles. Two issues can be considered: vehicle speed and vehicle use.
The quantity of pollutants emitted per kilometer driven varies with the speed of the
vehicle. Figure shows hour emission vary for non-catalytic petrol cars. For example, when care
travel much faster than 70 km/h, nitrogen oxide emissions being to increase. Thus the efficient
enforcement of speed limits on motorways would help to reduce pollutant emissions. Fig. 3.1.1
also demonstrates the problem of emissions at very low speeds. Thus as congestion inn towns
and cities increases and traffic shown down, emissions are increasinging much faster than the
actual growth in vehicle numbers. This requires a management response to reduce vehicle use
and to keep moving those vehicles that are used.
Turbidity or cloudiness. This can stunt the growth of aquatic plants by limiting the
amount of sunlight reaching them.
Water Pollution
Any physical, biological or chemical change in water quality that adversely affects living
organisms or makes water unsuitable for certain use is referred as Water pollution.
When the quality or composition of water changes by means it becomes unsuitable for any
purpose and is said to be polluted.
Water pollution Sources
Water pollutants are categorized as point source pollution and non-point source pollution.
1. Point source pollution
Point source pollution is defined as any single identifiable source of pollution from which
pollutants are discharged.
Example: Industrial discharge, factory smoke stack, municipal sewage etc.
 Point source pollution sources are discrete and identifiable and hence easy to monitor and
regulate.
2. Non Point source of pollution
When a source of pollution cannot be readily identified i.e, sources are scattered or diffuse
they are called Non Point source of pollution.
Example: run off from farm lands, construction sites, parking lots, agriculture logging, animal
waste.
Causes of Water Pollution
a). Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
The sewage and other organic matter discharged to a water body are degraded by oxygen
requiring microorganisms. The amount of oxygen consumed by the microbes is the Biochemical
Oxygen Demand (BOD). Although some natural BOD is always present, BOD is often
indication of the presence of sewage and other organic waste. High levels of BOD can deplete
the oxygen in water.
b). Nutrients
A Nutrient is a substance required for life, it promotes growth. But remember that nutrient
acquires more suspicious face at high concentrations. Synthetic fertilizers are composed of
nutrients. When discharged to water, the nitrogen and phosphorous they contain become
available to water organisms. Nutrients are also discharged as organic matter, which contains
nutrients that become to water organisms as the organic matter degrades.
c). Suspended solids / Sediments
Suspended solids are physical pollutants. They are always naturally present in water to
some extent and as usual, it is a an excess that is deleterious. Fine particles from soil runoff can
remain suspended in water and increase its turbidity or cloudiness. This can stunt the growth of
the aquatic plants by limiting the amount of sunlight.
d). Oil and grease
Oil spills are a major problem in near-coastal waters and can kill or adversely affect fish,
other aquatic organisms and birds and mammals. Spills can kill or reduce populations of
organisms living in coastal sands and rocks, and may kill the worms and insects that serve as
food to birds and other animals.
e). Bacteria, Viruses and protozoa
 The concern associated with micro organisms infectious disease. Micro organisms are
naturally found in water and elsewhere in the environment and can cause infection. However, the
microbes causing the greatest concern are usually associated with human activities. Nonpoint
sources include run-off from livestock operations and storm water runoff, especially that
associated with combined sewer overflow. Poorly performing municipal sewage treatment plant
are point sources of pathogenic micro organisms.

Sources of Water Pollution:

Source of water pollution Comment

Water and sewage company works Organic wastes and sometimes industrial wastes.
Aluminum residues from water treatment

Petroleum industry Oil spills from ships, oil supertanker disasters and
offshore drilling operations.

Acid rain Formed by combination of SO2 and NO2 with

water in the atmosphere.

Radioactive materials Present in wastes and (i) uranium and thorium

mining and refining (ii) nuclear power plants and
(ii) industrial, medical and scientific use

On consuming polluted water following effects are observed oh human beings.

Amoebic dysentery, Skin cancers, Cholera, Typhoid fever, Damage of nervous system, Genetic
mutations/ birth defects, Hepatitis, Malaria.
On plants and animals
Lower crop yields, Harmful to aquatic life and wild life, Excess growth of algae can kill aquatic
life, Reduce Photosynthesis, Disrupts food chain and food web.
A control measures for preventing water pollution
1. Setting up effluent treatment plans to treat waste.
2. Recycling of water must be encouraged.
 3. Industrial wastes must be treated before discharge.
4. Educate Public for preventing water pollution and the consequences of water pollution
5. Strict enforcement of water pollution control act.
6. Continuous monitoring of water pollution at different places.
7. Developing economical method of water treatment

8. River, streams, lakes and other water reservoirs must be well protected from being
polluted.

Soil Pollution
Soil pollution is defined as the contamination of soil causing adverse effects on living
organisms in it.
Causes of soil degradation
1. Soil erosion
Soil erosion can be defined as the movement of topsoil from one place to another. Soil
erosion is a natural process due to wind, flood and due to human activities like- construction,
overgrazing, farming and deforestation.
2. Industrial wastes
Various pollutants exists in environment from industrial wastes. Discharge from
Chemical industries, Fertilizer Company, pharmaceutical companies are highly polluting.
3. Urban wastes
Because of modem life style and eating habits the urban wastes are becoming very
dangerous to the human beings. Urban wastes include both which is a non-degradable
material and harmful to the society in long run.
4. Agricultural practice
Use of strong fertilizer, pesticides and inorganic chemicals for increasing productivity.
5. Biological agents :
Human and animal excreta wastes enter the soil pores and decompose pathogenic
bacterial present in those wastes spread infection.

Effects of soil pollution

 1. Toxic compounds affect plant growth and human life also.
2. Water logging and salinity makes soil infertile.
3. Hazardous chemicals enter into food chain from soil disturbing the biochemical process.
4. Nervous disorders, gastrointestinal disorder, joint pain, respiratory problems are the
effects seen on human beings.
Control measures for preventing soil pollution
1. Soil erosion must be prevented or controlled by proper tree plantation.
2. All the wastes from industry, domestic, must be dumped with proper treatment.
3. Use of sunthetic fertilizers must be avoided instead natural fertilizers must be preferred.
4. Educate people regarding consequences of soil pollution and to prevent soil pollution.
5. Strict enforcement of environment protection law.
6. Toxic and non-degradable materials must be totally banned.
7. Recycling and reuse of industrial and domestic wastes can minimize soil pollution
considerably.

Marine pollution
Marine pollution is defined as discharge of substances to the marine environment resulting
in adverse effects such as hazards of human health, obstruction in marine activities, marine water
and coastal land zones.

Sources of marine pollution

1. Municipal waste and sewage from residues and hotels in costal cities are directly
discharged into sea.
2. Dumping of industrial effuents e.g. acids, pesticides etc.
3. Oil spills by oil refinery companies (oil exploration)
4. Wastes of ship yards and shipping companies.
5. Solid wastes Garbage, trash, explosive, radio active waste.

Effects of Pollution
Marine pollution has a variety of effects on oceanic life, which includes the following.
Death or retarded growth, vitality and reproductively of marine organisms caused by toxic
pollutants.
Reduction in the dissolved oxygen content, necessary for marine because of increased
biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) as a result of the decomposition of organic wastes. Because
of nutrient rich waste, depletion of oxygen and subsequent killing of alage that may wash up and
pollute coastal areas. Waste disposal causes habitat change that drastically change entire marine
ecosystem. Contaminated marine organisms may transmit toxic elements or disease to people
who eat them. Beaches have been closed (temporarily) to recreational uses. Control measures of
marine pollution Municipal and domestic wastes should be treated before being allowed to mix
with sea. Periodical analysis of coastal water Oil spills in marine should be rectified by means of
bio remediation Beaches should be maintained in neat and tidy manner. Discharge of nutrients
from sewage can promote growth of algae sewage should be recycled before discharge. Educate
people regarding marine ecosystems.

Noise pollution
No one can escape the unwanted sound that is called noise-a disturbance to our environment
escalating so rapidly that it is becoming one of the major threats to the quality of human life.
Noise pollution is defined as unwanted, unpleasant sound that causes discomfort of human
beings. In homes, especially in developed countries, but also in big cities of developing countries
more and more power gadgets consitute additional sources of noise. The effect of these multiple
causes of noise can be cumulative. Noise exposure at work is added at home during leisure
activities. slowly, insensibly man seems to accept noise-and the physiological and psychological
deterioration that accompanies it-as an inevitable part of his life. Because noise does not pose as
obvious and immediate a danger to health as polluted water or air, public wareness of noise and
public commitment to noise reduction have been modest. Major differences exist between noise
and other forms of pollution.
Theses difference as follows
Noise is everywhere; it is not as easy to control as the sources of water and air pollution.
Although certain effects of noise, like those of many other pollutions, accumulate in the
organism, if noise pollution were to cease there would be no noise residual in the environment,
as there would be in the case of water and air or water pollutants.
Unlike air and water pollution, the effects of noise are felt only close to the source.
An essential awareness of noise, and motivation to reduce the problem are not present; people
are more likely to complain and demand political action about air or water pollution than about
noise. Finally, noise is not likely to have genetic effects, while some from of air and water
pollution, such as radioactive pollution, can cause genetic effects.
Sources of noise pollution
Traffic is considered to generate most annoying kind of noise, Road traffic, rail traffic and air
traffic, all contribute to transport noise. Industrial noise sources are steel industry, textile
industry, power generation, oil refineries generate huge amount of noise. Domestic noise sources
are household gadgets such as mixer, washing machine, refrigerator, air conditioners, vacuum
cleaners and recreational noise (TV, ratio) etc.
Effects of noise pollution
Noise pollution severely affects human health. Various health problems are being reported
because of noise pollution, such as Neurological disorder, Anxiety, Mental distress, Heart
attacks, Pathological disorder Deafness, Sleeplessness.
Control measures for noise pollution
Using earplugs where abnormal noise is produced. Banning noise polluting vehicles, Controlling
vibration of machines and proper lubricating machine. Plantation of trees on road sides and near
building can absorb noise, constructing sound proof rooms. Enforcing noise pollution control act.
educating people about noise pollution and its consequences.
Thermal Pollution
Thermal pollution is defined as rising air/water temperature so that it becomes harmful to
human being and other organisms.
Sources of thermal pollution
Thermal power station Nuclear power plants Petroleum refiners, Domestic sewage

Effects of Thermal pollution

Thermal pollution affects aquatic ecosystems in a variety of ways. In general, the species
composition changes as species tolerant of warmer waters replace those unable to adapt. This
transition is often accompanied by as over all decrease in species richness. For example, attached
algae in heated effluents were reported to show an increase in biomass but a decrease in the
number of species represented. Fish can be particularly susceptible to effects of thermal pollution
because their body temperature fluctuates with that of the surrounding water. For this reason, an
increase in water temperature causes an increase in the metabolic rate of fish. This enhanced
metabolism requires more oxyegn. However, the amount of dissolved oxygen present in water is
inversely related to its temperature. The lack of dissolved oxygen at higher temperatures can lead
to cold water conditions.
Thermal pollution reduces dissolved oxygen (DO).
The water properties are changed due to thermal pollution
Toxic chemical becomes soluble at high temperatures Thermal pollution disrupts natural
reproductive cycle of water animals by premature hatching of eggs.
Control measures for thermal pollution
Thermal water pollution can be avoided by precooling the warm water prior to its discharge.
For example, cooling ponds and cooling towers are often used for this purpose in the electricity
generating industry. Return the heated water away from ecological sensitive zone.

Nuclear Hazards
Radioactivity is produced by the spontaneous decay of the isotopes of some elements, whose
nuclei are unstable. The radiation can take a number of different forms. In some cases it is as
particles and in others it is electromagnetic.
Five types of radiation may occur: alpha and beta particles, neutrons gamma rays and x-rays. An
al particle is large, consisting of two neutrons and two protons, whereas a beta particle is an
electron. Gamma and X-rays have no mass. The type of particle emitted is important in
controlling exposure. They type of radiation is not the only factor affecting the management of
radioactive substances. The rate of emission is also extremely important.
Sources of man-made Radiation
It is important to ensure that the potential risk from man-made radiation is examined in the
corrective perspective, The harm that a accident or weapons testing may do is enormous and
steps must be taken no reduce the risks.
Nuclear reactors
Commercial and military reactors both operate by the fission of uranium or plutonium atoms.
The reaction create a range of new elements or radio nuclides some of these are heavier than
uranium, others are lighter, and all have different properties to the orginal element. The
containment of nuclear reactors is sufficient to prevent almost all releases to the wider
environment. The most likely route of release is, however, through the cooling-water system and
under normal operating conditions small traces of contamination will occur.
Nuclear installations also result in atmospheric discharges in a few instances, through to the
release of very large quantities of material, e.g. from the Chernobyl accident. It is usually
accidental discharges from nuclear plants, rather than their routine operation, which release most
radio nuclides.
Health Effects of Radiation
The effect of ion sing radiation is to disrupt molecules within cells, thus causing chemical
changes, it is possible to distinguish two distinct effects of radiation. At high doses, radiation
causes burning, nausea and other rapidly produced symptoms. This results from the radiation
causing extensive, immediate death of body cells. The effects are entirely predictable, i.e if a
person receives a certain dose, then particular symptoms will appear. Such effects are termed
deterministic. However, at lower doses, radiation results in health problems such as cancer. It is
possible to estimate the percentage of individuals within a population that may be whether any
given individual exposed to that dose, will become ill. These events are, therefore, termed
stochastic. The most important of these effects is the disruption of DNA, leading to the
development of radionuclide exposure. Thus, there is always a risk that the presence of ionizing
radiation may lead to detrimental damage to cells.
Effect of Radionuclides in the Environment
There is a very wide degree of response to radioactive substances by different plant and animal
species. Releasing radioactive substances into the natural environment poses may long-term
risks, especially as the aims would be to supply sufficient does to cause significant adverse
effects.
Much recent understanding of the impacts on the natural environment has come from
examination of the results of unplanned releases,e.g. the (hernpbyl accident or from nuclear tests.
Results from these are provided in the case studies. However, they do have the disadvantage that
many of the procedures for normal scientific experimentation (adequate controls, baseline data
and monitoring) were not possible.
Solid Waste Management
Solid Waste Management is a planned process of collection, storage, transportation, processing
of disposable of solid wastes in safe and economic manner.
On the basis of nature of solid wastes, it can be categorized into two types
1. Urban wastes 2. Industrial wastes.

Higher standard of living of ever increasing population has resulted in an increase in the quantity
and variety of waste generated. It is now realized that if waste generation continues
indiscriminately then very soon it would be beyond rectification. Management of solid waste has
therefore become very important in order to minimize the adverse effects of solid wastes. Solid
waste (waste other than liquid or gaseous) can be classified as municipal, industrial, agricultural,
medical, mining waste and sewage sludge.

Sources of Urban and Industrial wastes:

These wastes consists of medical waste from hospitals, municipal solid waste from homes,
offices, markets (commercial waste) small cottage units, and horticulture waste from parks,
gardens and orchards etc. The urban solid waste materials that can be degraded by
microorganisms are called biodegradable wastes. For example these types of waste are vegetable
wastes, stale food, tea leaves, egg shells, peanut shells, dry leaves etc.

Wastes that cannot be degraded by microorganisms are called non-biodegradable waste e.g.
polyethylene bags, scrap metal, glass bottles etc. Recently Government of Maharashtra is the
process of passing legislation on usage of polyethylene bags. Government had put a ban on use
of these bags. Industrial waste consists of large number of materials including factory rubbish,
packaging material, organic waste, acids etc. There are large quantities of hazardous and toxic
materials are also produced during industrial processing.

Effects of solid wastes:

Municipal solid waste heap up on the roads due to improper disposal system. People clean their
own houses and litter their immediate surroundings which affect the community including
themselves. This type of dumping allows biodegradable materials to decompose under
uncontrolled and unhygienic conditions. This produces foul smell and breeds various types of
insects and infectious organisms besides spoiling the aesthetics of the site. Industrial solid wastes
are sources of toxic metals and hazardous wastes, which may spread on land and can cause
changes in physicochemical and biological characteristics thereby affecting productivity of soils.
Toxic substances may leach or percolate to contaminate the ground water.

Management of solid waste:

For waste management we must focus on three Rs- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle before
destruction and safe storage of wastes.

1. Reduction in use of raw materials2. Reuse of waste materials3. Recycling of materials

For discarding wastes the following methods could be used:

1. Sanitary landfill 2. Composting3. Incineration

ROLE OF AN INDIVIDUAL IN PREVENTION OF POLLUTION

The role of every individual in preventing pollution is of paramount importance because if every
individual contributes substantially the effect will be visible not only at the community, city,
state or national level but also at the global level as environment has no boundaries. It is the
responsibility of the human race which has occupied the commanding positions on this earth to
protect the earth and provide conducive environment for itself an innumerable other species
which evolved on this earth. A small effort made by each individual at his own place will have
pronounced effect at the global level. It is appropriately said Think globally act locally.Each
individual should change his or her lifestyle in such a way as to reduce environmental pollution.
It can be done through following suggestions:

1. Help more in pollution prevention than pollution control

2. Use eco-friendly products3. Cut down the use of CFCs as they destroy the ozone layer. Do not
use polystyrene cups that have CFC molecules in them which destroy ozone layer.

4. Use the chemicals derived from peaches and plums to clean computer chips and circuit boards
instead of CFCs.

5. Use CFC free Refrigerators the manufacture and operation of such devices should be
encouraged that doesnt pollute. If they cost more than their higher prices may be offset by
including environmental and the social costs of pollution in the price of such products which
pollute environment. Air pollution can be prevented by using really clean fuel i.e. hydrogen fuel.
Hydrogen for that matter should not be produced by passing current in water as for generation of
this current; again the environment will be polluted.

Following are the practical hints for an individual to prevent pollution:

Reduce your dependency on fossil fuel especially coal or oil

Save electricity by not washing it when not required because electricity saved electricity
generated without polluting the environment.

Adopt and popularize renewable energy sources.

Improve energy efficiency. This will reduce the amount of waste energy

Promote reuse and recycling whatever possible and reduce the production of wastes.

Use mass transport system. For short visits use bicycle or go on foot.

Decrease the use of automobiles. Use pesticides only when absolutely necessary that too in
right amounts. Use rechargeable batteries, it will reduce metal pollution.

Use less hazardous chemicals wherever possible. The solid waste generated during one
manufacturing process can be used as a raw material for some other processes.

Do not put pesticides, paints, solvents, oils or other harmful chemicals into the drain or ground
water.

Use only the minimum and required quantity of water for various activities

When building a home save (dont cut) trees.

Plant more trees as trees can absorb many toxic gases and can purify the air.

Check population growth so that demand of materials is under controls.

DISASTER MANAGEMENT:
Geological processes like earthquakes, volcanoes, floods and landslides are normal natural
events which have resulted in the formation of the earth that we have today. They are however
disastrous in their impact when they affect human settlements. Human societies have witnessed a
large number of such natural hazards in different parts of the world and have tried to learn to
control these processes to some extent.

Frequently occurring natural disasters in India are Floods, Droughts, Earth quakes, Landslides
Earth-quake generated water waves called Tsunamis caused tremendous damage in Tamilnadu
and Kerala.

There are several causes for such disasters which include:

1. Anthropogenic activities such as Impoundment of huge quantities of water in the lake behind a
big dam.e.g. Underground nuclear testing e.g. Pokharan II testing at desert of Rajasthan, Deep
well disposal of liquid waste.

2. Due to heavy rainfalls or sudden snow melt can swell the rivers disproportionately- causes a
great economic loss and health related problems.

3. Landslides occur when coherent rock of soil masses move down slope due to gravitational
pull. Water and vegetation influence landslides. Chemical action of water gradually causes
chemical weathering of rocks making them prone to landslides.

Following care should be taken as set of measures for Disaster Management: 1. Damage of
property and life can be prevented by constructing earth-quake resistant buildings in the
earthquake prone zones. Wooden houses are preferred in earthquake prone areas as in Japan.

2. To check the flood, efforts need to be made to restore wetlands, replace ground cover on
water-courses, build check-dams on small streams, move buildings off the flood plains etc. Flood
plains should be used for wildlife habitat, parks, recreational areas etc.

3. These landslides should be masked by many other exerting factors like earthquakes,
vibrations, disturbances in resistant rock overlying rock of low resistance etc. These landslides
could be minimized by stabilizing the slope by draining the surface and surface water, providing
slope support like gabions (Wired stone blocks) and concrete support at the base of a slope.
4. It is difficult to stop the recurrence of cyclones. Some long term defence measures can help to
protect us from devastation. Such measures include planting of more trees on the coastal belt,
construction of dams, embankments, storm shelter, wind breaks, proper drainage and wide roads
for quick evacuation etc.

Questions:

1. Define pollution.

2. Name various atmospheric pollutants.

3. Write note on Air Pollution. How can we control it?

4. Differentiate between sound and noise.

5. Briefly describe the sources, effects and control of noise pollution.

6. Write a short note on Water Pollution.

7. What are the adverse effects and measures to control water pollution?

8. What are the sources of soil pollution?

9. How does soil pollution affect soil productivity?

10. Classify solid waste. What are the sources of urban and industrial solid waste?

11. How can you as an individual prevent environmental pollution?

12. What are various types of disasters? How could they be controlled?

13. What are the steps to be borne in mind in Disaster Management?

Prepared by: N Sampath Kumar, Head, Dept. of Chemistry, CCET, Karur