pollution essay grade 5

Essay on Pollution for Kids from Class 3 to 5

Pollution Essay For Kids (from class 3 to class 5):

Pollution is nothing but an unconscious effect of human activities as a result of advancement. Kids don’t have worldwide knowledge of pollution. They believe what they see. As pollution has spread its effect all over the environment, there is nothing hidden now.

This article will assist kids from class 3 to class 5 in writing a good-quality essay on pollution. We have used simple languages and attractive words which will help kids to improve their basic ideas. So, let’s begin.

Table of Contents

• 1 What Do You Mean by Pollution?
• 2 Types of Pollution
• 3.2 Impact:
• 4.2 Impact:
• 5.2 Impact:
• 6.2 Impact:
• 7.2 Impact:
• 8.1 Cause and Impact
• 9 Prevention For All Kinds of Pollution
• 10 Conclusion of Pollution Essay

What Do You Mean by Pollution?

When a substance, which is harmful to both environment and human health, is introduced into nature, we call it  pollution . That substance causing pollution is called a  pollutant .

The effect of pollution depends on the quantity and type of pollutant. Day by day, pollution is getting worse, and people are getting careless.

Many organizations are trying to make people aware and organize different events such as spreading awareness and cleaning plastics from different depositions, and plantations, are organized by people.

But this is not enough to stop the increasing pollution. To reduce the pollution effects, we have to find the root source of pollution along with purifying the existing pollutants.

In this essay, now we will discuss different types of pollution, which will show the understanding of kids on the subject matter.

Types of Pollution

What comes to our mind when we think about the variety of pollution ? Where can the pollution spread?

Well, pollution has spread over all of our basic needs like air, water, and soil. In fact, some kinds of pollution are not even visible like noise pollution.

In this section of the essay, we will explore the various types of pollution along with their causes and effects briefly for kids of class 3 to class 5.

Air Pollution

Life is impossible without an atmosphere. Our biotic (Living) components remain healthy when the atmosphere is clean. In today’s world, it has become a challenging task to find fresh air. Specifically, in urban areas, the rate of pollution is more.

Urban areas have more industries and vehicles compared to rural areas. Toxic gases like oxides of sulphur and nitrogen are released from different kinds of factories.

The major problem is the particulate matter which is discharged into the air due to the exertion of the  unfiltered gases from industries . The rapid increase in vehicles has resulted in an increase in greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, methane, etc.).

Oxides of sulphur and nitrogen are the leading cause of acid rain and also play a significant role in the formation of  smog  (Smoke+fog).

Increased rates of particulate matter and different toxic gases cause several respiratory-related diseases. Greenhouse gases  are the main reason for the abnormal increase in temperature (global warming).

Due to global warming, glaciers are melting day by day and thus  increasing sea levels . Air pollution kills approximately 7 million people worldwide every year.

Water Pollution

Water is a universal solvent. In fact, in all living organisms, water is present in significant percentages.

The human body contains about 70% water in its total composition. There is no scarcity of  water on earth , but the usable water percentage is deficient.

About 71% of the earth is covered by water, but 96.5% is only ocean water. This less amount of fresh water is also becoming polluted day by day.

Significant causes of the polluted form of water are urbanization and industrialization. Industries discharge their hot and toxic effluents into the water without any pre-treatment.

Due to urbanization, the amount of wastewater or sewage has also increased. In most cities sewage is mixed in the river directly or with very moderate treatment. Thus, most of the water reservoirs are filled with chemicals and wastes. The ocean is also getting deposited with plastics.

Modern agricultural processes are also responsible for water pollution . The use of pesticides and fertilizers leads to polluted water after the irrigated water is mixed with it.

Toxic water discharge results in the extinction of aquatic animals. Aquatic animals can’t tolerate the chemicals and excess heat and are getting killed.

Many people are also not getting clean drinking water. More than 1 billion of the population don’t have clean water, and 2.4 billion people lack adequate sanitation in the world.

Many deadly diseases like typhoid, diarrhoea, and hepatitis  spread through water  by the consumption of such contaminated water.

Soil Pollution

Soil is a crucial aspect as it provides land to live on and food to eat. But when the  soil gets polluted  with a high amount of toxins, it becomes dangerous both for human health and the ecosystem.

There are various  causes of soil pollution , but most importantly modern agricultural methods and waste disposal are responsible for this. To increase productivity and feed the large population, we try to cultivate more crops in less time and effort.

So, we use pesticides to kill insects and fertilizers to make the soil more fertilized. But excess use of these chemicals causes soil pollution. Deforestation  is also a reason for soil erosion and soil pollution.

Solid wastes are usually dumped in the soil and ignored. Eventually, these wastes degrade in soil and release different types of toxic materials which pollute the soil.

Soil pollution directly affects our food. Polluted soil can’t be used for agriculture. Excess use of chemicals makes soil infertile.

Noise Pollution

This problem is seen mostly in urban areas. The sounds which are irritating our ears are counted under noise.

Sounds from vehicles and industries or any other types of machinery are the primary source of the noise. WHO has allowed only 50db sound in residential areas but now it has crossed 98db. Loud music, aeroplane sounds, etc. also cause noise pollution.

High-frequency  sounds are not healthy  for humans and other animals. They cause stress, irritation, and hearing problems, and most importantly, they may lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Radioactive Pollution

We all have electronic devices in our houses. But what happens when they get damaged? Either we throw it, or we exchange it with a new one. Have we ever thought, what happens to those electronic waste?

Electronic wastes are dumped in the dump yard. With time many  radiations are released from those wastes. Nuclear wastes release a high amount of radiation as compared to electronic wastes.

Due to radiation, every individual gets mutated and can even suffer from cancer.

Plastic Pollution

Can we imagine our life without plastic? When we look around, we will notice that maximum things are made up of plastics. We forgot to choose an alternative for plastic and are continuing to use it in every field.

Cause and Impact

After use, we dump the plastics. But plastics don’t degrade for hundreds of years. So, they get deposited in the soil and ocean.

This deposition makes both soil and water polluted.  Plastics make soil infertile  and aquatic animals face many problems due to plastic deposition in the ocean.

Prevention For All Kinds of Pollution

• As citizens, the first thing we can do is to use  vehicles as little as possible . So fewer toxic gases will be released, and less noise will be created.
• We should keep in mind that these sources are limited. So, we should use every  resource within a limit .
• Alternatives for limited natural resources should be used— for example , solar energy and wind energy.
• Instead of chemical fertilizers, we should use biological fertilizers. So that both soil and water can be saved from pollution.
• Saving energy and spreading green should be every person’s rule.
• Forestation should be encouraged. Greenery can solve the maximum pollution problems in the world.
• There should be strict rules for the industrial establishment, and industrial areas should be far from the residential areas.
• Pre-treatment of effluents should be compulsory for the industries.
• Proper punishments should be applied for unnecessary sound pollution.
• Nuclear wastes should be dumped in a restricted area, and that area should be prohibited from human activities.
• Use biodegradable carry bags or use your own bags.
• Plastics should be recycled in a systematic manner.

Conclusion of Pollution Essay

To stop pollution, all have to work with responsibilities. Both citizens and the government have to be sincere.

There are many laws to protect the environment, but many of them have been ignored. Day by day ecology is being imbalanced.

If proper steps are not taken, then that day is not far when we will die without clean air and water. At last, we will request everyone to secure this environment as we save our family from danger.

This article is a basic idea about almost all the major pollution that exists in the world. Through this essay, kids in classes 3, 4, and 5 will get awareness about upcoming problems and recent issues regarding pollution. After getting an idea, they can write this in their own wording.

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ELA  /  5th Grade  /  Unit 3: Protecting the Earth: Plastic Pollution

Protecting the Earth: Plastic Pollution

Students explore how plastic pollution is choking the world’s oceans, and explore a variety of solutions for reducing plastic waste and reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in the ocean.

• Text and Materials

Unit Summary

In this unit, students explore how plastic pollution is choking the world’s oceans. Students first learn about the history of plastic, how plastic ends up in the ocean, how plastic in the ocean impacts the ecosystem, and why it’s so hard to remove plastic from the ocean once it’s there. Students then explore a variety of solutions for reducing plastic waste and reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in the ocean. Students will learn about large policy-based changes that can be made and also explore smaller voluntary actions they can take that will make a difference. Finally, students end the unit by doing a research project aimed at educating others about the dangers of plastic and its impact on the environment. 

In this informational unit, students will be challenged to explain the relationship between two or more scientific ideas, noticing how authors use description, sequence, or cause- and-effect paragraph structure to help readers notice and explain the connections between events. Students will also analyze how authors use a variety of reasons and evidence to support their points, depending on their purpose for writing the text.  

Throughout the unit, students learn how to prepare for class discussions, determining which evidence best supports a particular idea and how to elaborate on that evidence. By writing daily in response to the Target Task question, students build their writing fluency, seeing the power of writing as a tool for understanding what they are reading. Students also set the foundations for strong literary analysis and opinion writing by learning how to craft strong paragraphs and multiple-paragraph essays. 

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Texts and Materials

Some of the links below are Amazon affiliate links. This means that if you click and make a purchase, we receive a small portion of the proceeds, which supports our non-profit mission.

Core Materials

Book:  Trash Vortex: How Plastic Pollution Is Choking the World's Oceans by Danielle Smith-Llera (Compass Point Books, 2018)   —  1120L

Supporting Materials

Article:  “Single-Use Plastics: A Roadmap for Sustainability” (United Nations Environment Programme, 2018)

Article:  “Ten "stealth microplastics" to avoid if you want to save the oceans” by Sharon George and Deirdre McKay (The Conversation)

Rubric:  Grade 5 Literary Analysis and Opinion Writing Rubric

Article:  “Queensland passes laws banning 'killer' single-use plastics” (The Guardian)

Article:  “"People need them": The trouble with the movement to ban plastic straws” (The Guardian)

Article:  “Mythbusting: 5 common misperceptions surrounding the environmental impacts of single-use plastics” (University of Michigan News)

Template:  Two-Paragraph Outline

Template:  Three Paragraph Outline

Template:  Plastic Pollution Note-Taker

Article:  “Little girl, big difference: 4th grader’s idea helps reduce trash at Pikes Peak region-area elementary school” by Lindsey Grewe for CBS

• Resource: Recommended Texts for Independent Reading

These assessments accompany this unit to help gauge student understanding of key unit content and skills.

Download Content Assessment

Download Content Assessment Answer Key

Additional progress monitoring suggestions are included throughout the unit. Essential Tasks can be found in the following lessons:

Intellectual Prep

Suggestions for how to prepare to teach this unit

Unit Launch

Prepare to teach this unit by immersing yourself in the texts, themes, and core standards. Unit Launches include a series of short videos, targeted readings, and opportunities for action planning.

Essential Questions

The central thematic questions addressed in the unit or across units

• Why do we have a plastic pollution problem? 
• How is plastic pollution hurting the world’s oceans? 
• What steps can be taken to lessen the amount of plastic pollution in the ocean?

Reading Focus Areas

Authors use description, sequence, or cause and effect paragraph and sentence structure to help readers notice and explain connections between ideas.

Authors use a variety of reasons and evidence to support their points. The type of evidence an author uses depends on the author’s purpose.

Writing Focus Areas

Opinion writing.

Write strong topic sentences that clearly state an opinion or answer the question.

Logically group details and reasons to support the opinion.

Identify and elaborate on details and reasons that support the opinion.

Use coordinating conjunctions to explain supporting details.

Provide concluding sentences or statements.

Informational Writing

Generate strong questions and use reliable sources when starting a research project.

Determine which details are the most important and best support the main point.

Use details to create topic sentences and coherent paragraphs.

Elaborate on reasons by providing more facts and details.

Speaking and Listening Focus Areas

Prepare for discussion.

Elaborate to support ideas. Provide evidence or examples to justify and defend a point clearly.

Use specific vocabulary. Use vocabulary that is specific to the subject and task to clarify and share their thoughts.

Literary terms, text-based vocabulary, idioms and word parts to be taught with the text

affordable artificial astounding biodegradability biodegradation biodegrade convenience decomposer discarded disposable dramatic emanate finite fragment grotesque incentive intrigued mechanism microplastic moldable plastic relentless synthetic tragic

-able -less -tion bio- de- micro-

To see all the vocabulary for Unit 3, view our 5th Grade Vocabulary Glossary .

Supporting All Students

In order to ensure that all students are able to access the texts and tasks in this unit, it is incredibly important to intellectually prepare to teach the unit prior to launching the unit. Use the intellectual preparation protocol and the Unit Launch to determine which support students will need. To learn more, visit the Supporting all Students teacher tool.

Explain what it means to have a plastic problem.

Explain how plastic ends up in a gyre and what happens to it once it is there.

Explain why the author uses the words grotesque , astounding , and dramatic to describe what Moore and his team found.

L.5.4.c RI.5.3

Explain how Leo Baekeland invented plastic. 

Analyze how plastic became such a large part of everyday life.

L.5.2.a RI.5.3

Explain what evidence the author uses to emphasize how much plastic is in the ocean and its impact on the ecosystem. 

RI.5.3 RI.5.8

Analyze how plastic has a negative impact on ocean ecosystems and humans. 

• Trash Vortex pp. 40 – 43
• “Single-Use Plastics” — Figure 1.2–Figure 1.8

Explain what the author means by the quote, "we need to think about the items we are using not just on beaches, but also inland and communities far upstream as well."

Writing  – 3 days

Write two strong paragraphs describing why we have a plastic pollution problem and how plastic pollution impacts the ocean.

L.5.2.a W.5.2 W.5.2.a W.5.2.b W.5.2.e W.5.7 W.5.9

Opinion Writing  – 4 days

• All unit texts
• “Queensland passes laws banning 'killer' single-use plastics”
• “"People need them": The trouble with the movement to ban plastic straws”
• “Mythbusting: 5 common misperceptions surrounding the environmental impacts of single-use plastics”
• Grade 5 Literary Analysis and Opinion Writing Rubric
• Two-Paragraph Outline — (Use outline depending on students' needs)
• Three Paragraph Outline — (Use outline depending on students' needs)
• Plastic Pollution Note-Taker

Write an opinion piece defending whether or not single-use plastics should be banned by citing evidence from multiple texts and building an argument.

L.5.2.e L.5.3.a RI.5.8 SL.5.1 SL.5.4 W.5.1 W.5.1.a W.5.1.b W.5.5 W.5.8

Explain what strategies the author recommends to help reduce the amount of plastic in the ocean and the pros and cons of the strategies.

Explain what strategies the author recommends to help reduce the amount of plastic in the ocean and the pros and cons of the strategies. 

RI.5.3 RI.5.9

Explain what "stealth microplastics" are and what steps we can take to reduce plastic waste from microplastics. 

• “Little girl, big difference: 4th grader’s idea helps reduce trash at Pikes Peak region-area elementary school”

Describe how Shelby’s actions show that a single person can make a difference.

Write multiple paragraphs that describe a solution for reducing the school’s use of plastic after researching different alternatives. Create a presentation to convince others around the school to take part and minimize the school’s use of plastic.

L.5.2.a L.5.2.e L.5.3.a L.5.3.b L.5.4.c SL.5.4 SL.5.5 SL.5.6 W.5.1 W.5.1.a W.5.1.b W.5.2.a W.5.2.b W.5.2.e W.5.6 W.5.7 W.5.9

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Common Core Standards

Core standards.

The content standards covered in this unit

Language Standards

L.5.1 — Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

L.5.2.a — Use punctuation to separate items in a series.

L.5.2.e — Spell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.

L.5.3 — Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.

L.5.3.a — Expand, combine, and reduce sentences for meaning, reader/listener interest, and style.

L.5.3.b — Compare and contrast the varieties of English (e.g., dialects, registers) used in stories, dramas, or poems.

L.5.4.c — Consult reference materials (e.g., dictionaries, glossaries, thesauruses), both print and digital, to find the pronunciation and determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases.

Reading Standards for Informational Text

RI.5.3 — Explain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text based on specific information in the text.

RI.5.8 — Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text, identifying which reasons and evidence support which point(s).

RI.5.9 — Integrate information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably.

Speaking and Listening Standards

SL.5.1 — Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 5 topics and texts, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

SL.5.4 — Report on a topic or text or present an opinion, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; speak clearly at an understandable pace.

SL.5.5 — Include multimedia components (e.g., graphics, sound) and visual displays in presentations when appropriate to enhance the development of main ideas or themes.

SL.5.6 — Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, using formal English when appropriate to task and situation.

Writing Standards

W.5.1 — Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information

W.5.1.a — Introduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which ideas are logically grouped to support the writer's purpose.

W.5.1.b — Provide logically ordered reasons that are supported by facts and details.

W.5.2 — Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.

W.5.2.a — Introduce a topic clearly, provide a general observation and focus, and group related information logically; include formatting (e.g., headings), illustrations, and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.

W.5.2.b — Develop the topic with facts, definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples related to the topic.

W.5.2.e — Provide a concluding statement or section related to the information or explanation presented

W.5.5 — With guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.

W.5.6 — With some guidance and support from adults, use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others; demonstrate sufficient command of keyboarding skills to type a minimum of two pages in a single sitting.

W.5.7 — Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.

W.5.8 — Recall relevant information from experiences or gather relevant information from print and digital sources; summarize or paraphrase information in notes and finished work, and provide a list of sources.

W.5.9 — Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Supporting Standards

Standards that are practiced daily but are not priority standards of the unit

L.5.1.a — Explain the function of conjunctions, prepositions, and interjections in general and their function in particular sentences.

L.5.2 — Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

L.5.4 — Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 5 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.

L.5.4.b — Use common, grade-appropriate Greek and Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word (e.g., photograph, photosynthesis).

L.5.5 — Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

L.5.6 — Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal contrast, addition, and other logical relationships (e.g., however, although, nevertheless, similarly, moreover, in addition).

Reading Standards: Foundational Skills

RF.5.3 — Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.

RF.5.4 — Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.

RI.5.1 — Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.

RI.5.4 — Determine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words and phrases in a text relevant to a grade 5 topic or subject area.

RI.5.7 — Draw on information from multiple print or digital sources, demonstrating the ability to locate an answer to a question quickly or to solve a problem efficiently.

RI.5.10 — By the end of the year, read and comprehend informational texts, including history/social studies, science, and technical texts, at the high end of the grades 4—5 text complexity band independently and proficiently.

W.5.4 — Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience. (Grade-specific expectations for writing types are defined in standards 1—3 above.)

W.5.9.b — Apply grade 5 Reading standards to informational texts (e.g., "Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support particular points in a text, identifying which reasons and evidence support which point[s]").

W.5.10 — Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.

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Essay on Pollution: Samples in 100, 150 and 200 Words

• Updated on  
• Nov 23, 2023

As the world embraced urbanization, mother nature witnessed the greener lands getting transformed into modern cities and metropolises. What followed is a trail of natural disasters signalling that something is wrong with the planet earth. Pollution is increasingly asked under the writing section in school and college tests as well as competitive exams . This is because it is a relevant environmental issue today. This blog aims to help you with the necessary knowledge as well as tips and tricks to draft a well-written essay on pollution.

Related Read: Women Empowerment Essay

What is Pollution?

Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. These materials are called pollutants. They can be created by human activity like trash and natural like volcanic ash. Pollutants damage the quality of water, air and land. Pollution is a global problem. Air and water carry pollution into the ocean currents and migrating fish. Pollution is among the many things that harm our planet- once greener and healthier than it is now. Pollution is a dangerous phenomenon that is contributing to an array of health issues.

Types of Pollution

In simple terms, pollution is defined as the contamination of the physical and biological constituents in the earth’s atmosphere. It affects human life and the natural environment to a very great extent. It degrades our natural resources, from the water we drink to the air we breathe. While writing an essay on Pollution, you must mention the major four types of pollution which are as follows:

• Air Pollution : Air pollution is the contamination of air in the atmosphere when harmful or excessive quantities of substances such as smoke and harmful gases from industries, CFCs and oxides produced by automobiles, the burning of solid wastes, etc. are introduced into the environment.
• Water Pollution : This refers to the contamination of natural resources of water, due to the addition of harmful chemical, biological or physical materials, which includes industrial wastes, oil spills, domestic and farm wastes, pesticides, as well as mining and agricultural wastes, to water resource which make it unusable.
• Soil Pollution : Land/Soil Pollution occurs due to the degradation of the earth’s surface by different commercial, industrial, agricultural and domestic activities. Causes of soil pollution also include mining, deforestation, dumping of e-waste and other industrial wastes, usage of harmful chemicals such as insecticides, pesticides, etc.
• Noise Pollution : Excess noise due to sounds created by machines, loudspeakers, microphones, loud music, noise from industries, construction and civil engineering works etc. lead to noise pollution.

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Causes and Health Effects of Pollution

You can include various causes and health effects in your essay on Pollution from the following table:-

Add the causes and effects in your essay on Pollution depending upon the word limit allowed to you.

Format for Essay on Pollution

Before writing an essay on Pollution, students must be familiarised with the format of essay writing. The key elements of the essay format are Introduction, Body of Content and Conclusion. Take a look at the following paragraphs which delve deeper into the details of these features as per a 200-250 word essay:

• Introduction – The introduction of the essay must be on providing an overview of the given topic. For an essay on Pollution, you can begin with a simple definition or thought-provoking sentence and complete it in about around 60 words. Since, it is the first thing the reader looks at, try to make it interesting by adding recent instances and impactful questions.
• Body of Content – This area of the content comes after the introduction and can be explained in around 100-120 words, describing the given topic in detail. So, in writing about pollution, you can describe how the atmosphere and the environment are getting affected due to Pollution and list down various ways to prevent pollution.
• Conclusion – Wrapping up your essay, this part comprises around 50 words. Try to bring a positive outlook on the issue you are discussing or conclude by summing up in a concise way.

Also Read: Essay on Pollution in Hindi

Sample Essay on Pollution in 100 Words

Polllution is the addition of unwanted susbstances which are incorporated into the environment that can damage our Earth. There are mainly four tyoes of pollutions, these inlcude water pollution, air pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution. One should note that any form of pollution is the result of careless activity carried out by man. We, humans on a daily basis dump waste directly into water bodies which leads to water pollution. Vehicle emissions of smoke into the atmosphere impede the ability of all living things to breathe, leading to air pollution. Our garbage is dumped into landfills directly, which results in soil pollution. Although it cannot be seen, noise pollution is a severe type of pollution that can harm our ears.

Sample Essay on Pollution in 250- 300 Words

The biggest threat planet earth is facing is pollution. Unwanted substances leave a negative impact once released into an environment. There are four types of pollution air, water, land, and noise. Pollution affects the quality of life more than any human can imagine. Due to air pollution, even teenage kids have developed various respiratory diseases. Water pollution has led to diseases in children. The waste we humans dump on the land or chemical fertilisers which are put on the land for agricultural purposes causes land/ soil pollution. If the soil quality deteriorates due to such practices, the soil will become infertile and no crops could be grown in future. The government has launched various schemes over the years to fight pollution but individual efforts can also play a vital role. Start by replacing plastic bags for shopping with cloth bags, stopping littering on roads and stop wasting water are some of the basic things to start with that can lead to big changes in the environment.

Sample Essay on Pollution in 300-350 Words

One of the most critical threats faced by our planet in the present day scenario. Environmental pollution is a global issue affecting people around the world. It is occurring in different forms, whether by affecting the air we breathe or the water resources we utilise for several purposes. Air pollution came into being with an increase in the level of carbon dioxide, with the increase in pollutants which are contaminating the air and causing breathing discomfort as well as skin diseases to human beings. Talking about the other aspect, there is no life without water. The water bodies are polluting and becoming unsafe for drinking or any other use because of industrial development, rapid urbanisation and various other reasons. Due to air pollution, diseases that can occur to human beings are asthma, various skin diseases, cancer, etc. Therefore, it is the essential need of the hour to take serious steps to reduce pollution to its core. At a personal level, we can minimise environmental pollution by taking public transport or carpools to reduce vehicular smoke, avoiding firecrackers at festivals and celebrations can also cut down on air and noise pollution, and not using fertilisers and pesticides which can cause both water and soil pollution, and switching over to organic farming. The government can also bring strict rules and regulations to lessen industrial pollution.  To sum up, any type of pollution is harmful to the environment with serious consequences like global warming, uneven climatic changes, etc. Due to our greediness and illegal human activities, the innocent lives of animals are lost. The time has come to join our hands and work towards preserving and protecting the environment for the present as well as future generations.

Also Read: Essay on Environment: Examples and Tips

Tips on How to Write an Essay on Pollution

Before you start writing your essay on Pollution, make a note of the following things:-

• Make points of what types of pollution and compulsorily add air, water and noise pollution
• Make a list of what causes and effects do you want to write about
• Ensure that everything you want to write about is factually correct
• Try to write shorter and readable sentences. There should be a connection amongst all 3 parts of the essay on Pollution- introduction, body and conclusion

How to Reduce or Prevent Pollution?

Everyone has a responsibility to take action to prevent pollution after learning about its negative impacts. Every preventive measure that can be taken to lessen pollution should be known to us. For example, to reduce air pollution, we should refrain from lighting fireworks during festivals, take public transportation or carpool, limit the use of loudspeakers, and reduce noise pollution by honking in public. This circumstance should always be on our minds so that we can respond appropriately. In the beginning, it is up to us to exercise caution and to raise awareness among those around us. We should take environmentally beneficial measures, such as increasing tree planting, lowering plastic usage, utilising more sustainable household products, etc. Always keep in mind that every tiny action now will have a greater effect tomorrow when discussing global pollution.

Tips on Reducing Pollution

• Say NO to Crackers
• Use Public Transportation
• Turn off the lights, fans and water taps when not in use
• Recycle and Reuse
• Segregate your waste
• Say NO to Plastic
• Plant more trees
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How Often Does an Essay on Pollution Come in School Exams?

In your school exams, an essay on Pollution will come in your English language paper. Environmental Science is a subject every school teaches so you can pick up some points from the chapters on Pollution and add them to your essay. An essay on Pollution is asked very often if not every year (with one or two other choices of topic) because of its significance in today’s world.

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Nikita is a creative writer and editor, who is always ready to learn new skills. She has great knowledge about study abroad universities, researching and writing blogs about them. Being a perfectionist, she has a habit of keeping her tasks complete on time before the OCD hits her. When Nikita is not busy working, you can find her eating while binge-watching The office. Also, she breathes music. She has done her bachelor's from Delhi University and her master's from Jamia Millia Islamia.

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Human Impact — Pollution

Essays on Pollution

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Environmental Awareness and Protection: Causes and Effects

The growing concern of environmental light pollution, a study of plastic pollution in the pacific ocean, the impact of bottled water as a factor in environmental pollution, a significant problem of environmental pollution, impact pollution on global warming, pollution in malaysia: causes and solutions, the long term effects of littering and pollution on the environment, radioactive waste and environmental pollution, air pollution: causes, effects, and solutions, different types and sources of pollution, the unintended consequences of the plastic straw ban, ozone report: the knowledge of cfcs, the effects of people's inhumane acts on nature, noise pollution, water pollution: what we can expect, how noise pollution is affecting environment, the issue of noise pollution and its effects on the health of humans and wildlife, the negative impact of heavy metals on the environment and human health, the problem of air pollution in the workplace.

Pollution refers to the introduction or presence of harmful substances, contaminants, or pollutants into the environment, resulting in adverse effects on ecosystems, human health, and the overall balance of the natural world. It involves the release of various pollutants, such as chemicals, gases, particulate matter, noise, or waste materials, into the air, water bodies, or land, beyond levels that are considered safe or sustainable.

In the United States today, pollution continues to be a significant environmental issue with various sources and consequences. One of the main challenges is air pollution, particularly in densely populated urban areas and regions with high industrial activity. Emissions from vehicles, power plants, factories, and other sources contribute to the release of pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds, which can have detrimental effects on human health and the environment. Water pollution is another concern, as pollutants from industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal can contaminate water bodies. This contamination affects not only aquatic ecosystems but also the availability of clean drinking water. Furthermore, the improper management of waste, including plastic waste, contributes to pollution. Landfills, inadequate recycling infrastructure, and littering pose significant challenges to waste management and can lead to pollution of land and water resources. To address these issues, the United States has implemented various environmental regulations and initiatives aimed at reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices. Efforts include the enforcement of emission standards, promotion of clean energy alternatives, implementation of water quality regulations, and initiatives to reduce waste generation and promote recycling.

The historical context of pollution provides valuable insights into the evolution of human impact on the environment over time. Pollution, in various forms, has been a concern throughout history, although the scale and severity have varied across different civilizations and eras. In ancient times, pollution primarily resulted from basic human activities such as waste disposal, resource extraction, and agricultural practices. However, as societies grew more complex and industrialization took hold, pollution intensified. The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point, as factories emerged, powered by fossil fuels, and released large quantities of pollutants into the air, water, and soil. The detrimental effects of pollution became more evident in the 20th century. Major industrial incidents, such as the Minamata disease caused by mercury pollution in Japan, and environmental disasters like the Cuyahoga River catching fire in the United States, raised public awareness about the consequences of pollution. These events prompted the establishment of environmental regulations and the emergence of environmental movements, leading to increased efforts to mitigate pollution and protect the environment.

One notable individual who has been actively involved in addressing the issue of pollution is Leonardo DiCaprio. Besides being a renowned actor, DiCaprio is a dedicated environmental activist. He has established the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, which focuses on environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. DiCaprio has used his platform and influence to raise awareness about pollution and advocate for sustainable practices. Another notable figure is Erin Brockovich, an environmental activist known for her legal efforts against pollution. She gained prominence for her successful investigation into the contamination of drinking water in Hinkley, California, by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Brockovich's story was later depicted in a film, bringing further attention to the issue of pollution and corporate negligence. A well-known environmentalist is Al Gore, who served as the Vice President of the United States and later became an advocate for climate change awareness. Through his documentary "An Inconvenient Truth," Gore highlighted the environmental challenges, including pollution, caused by human activities and called for action to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

1. Air Pollution 2. Water Pollution 3. Soil Pollution 4. Noise Pollution 5. Light Pollution 6. Plastic Pollution

1. Industrial Emissions 2. Vehicle Emissions 3. Agricultural Practices 4. Waste Disposal 5. Deforestation 6. Natural Causes

Air Pollution: High levels of air pollution can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory diseases. It can also aggravate existing health conditions and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, air pollution contributes to the formation of smog and acid rain, which can harm vegetation and damage buildings. Water Pollution: Contaminated water sources pose a threat to human health and aquatic ecosystems. Water pollution can lead to waterborne diseases, harm aquatic life, and disrupt the balance of ecosystems. Soil Pollution: Pollutants such as chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals can contaminate soil, affecting its fertility and the health of plants and crops. Contaminated soil can lead to reduced crop yields, loss of biodiversity, and potential health risks if pollutants enter the food chain. Climate Change: The release of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases from human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, leads to global warming, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events. Biodiversity Loss: Pollution can degrade and destroy habitats, leading to a loss of biodiversity. Pollutants in the air, water, and soil can harm and kill plants, animals, and microorganisms, disrupting ecological balance and reducing species diversity. Economic Impact: Pollution imposes significant economic costs. Healthcare expenses related to pollution-related illnesses, the loss of agricultural productivity, the need for environmental cleanup, and the decline in tourism and recreation opportunities are just a few examples.

1. Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. 2. Promoting energy-efficient practices and technologies. 3. Implementing proper waste management strategies. 4. Encouraging sustainable farming practices. 5. Environmental regulations. 6. Raising awareness about the consequences of pollution and promoting eco-friendly behaviors. 7. Encouraging the use of green transportation. 8. Investing in research and development of clean technologies, pollution monitoring systems, and sustainable solutions.

Public opinion on pollution is characterized by growing concern about its impact on the environment and human health. People recognize the need for cleaner air, water, and land to safeguard natural resources for future generations. They are increasingly aware of the health risks associated with pollution, such as respiratory issues and cardiovascular diseases. Public support exists for stricter regulations and policies to control pollution, with expectations for enforcement and accountability. Sustainable practices, renewable energy, and responsible consumption are favored solutions. Individuals are willing to take personal responsibility by recycling, conserving energy, and using public transportation. Collaboration between governments, industries, and communities is encouraged, along with advocacy for policy changes. Education and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in informing the public about pollution sources, consequences, and mitigation strategies. Environmental justice is emphasized to ensure equal access to a clean and healthy environment for all.

Documentaries such as "An Inconvenient Truth" by Al Gore and "Before the Flood" by Leonardo DiCaprio have shed light on the consequences of pollution and climate change. These films raise awareness and encourage discussions on the urgent need for environmental action. In literature, novels like "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson have made a lasting impact by exposing the harmful effects of pesticides on ecosystems.

1. Approximately 92% of the world's population lives in areas with air pollution levels that exceed the World Health Organization's guidelines. 2. Plastic pollution is a growing concern, with an estimated 8 million tons of plastic ending up in the oceans every year. 3. Pollution-related diseases, such as respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular problems, contribute to over 9 million premature deaths worldwide annually. 4. The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to water pollution due to its use of toxic chemicals and excessive water consumption. 5. Noise pollution has become a significant issue, with studies showing that prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing loss and other health problems.

Pollution is a critical and pressing issue that demands our attention and action. Writing an essay about pollution is important for several reasons. Firstly, pollution has far-reaching consequences on our environment, ecosystems, and human health. By exploring this topic, we can raise awareness about the severity of the problem and the urgent need for solutions. Secondly, pollution is a multifaceted issue that encompasses various types, causes, and effects. Writing an essay allows us to delve into these complexities, examine different perspectives, and understand the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors. Furthermore, addressing pollution requires collective efforts from individuals, communities, industries, and governments. By writing about pollution, we can inspire others to take action, promote sustainable practices, and advocate for policy changes. Moreover, the essay provides a platform to discuss innovative technologies, renewable energy sources, and sustainable practices that can help combat pollution. It allows us to explore the potential of green solutions and their role in building a cleaner and healthier future.

1. Brimblecombe, P., & Pollitt, K. J. G. (Eds.). (2006). The effects of air pollution on cultural heritage. Springer. 2. Christensen, T. H., Cossu, R., & Stegmann, R. (Eds.). (2010). Landfilling of waste: Biogas. Springer. 3. EPA. (2017). Air pollution. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/air-pollution-transportation 4. EPA. (2019). Water pollution. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/water-pollution 5. Ghosh, S. K., & Roy, A. (Eds.). (2017). Handbook of pollution control and waste minimization. CRC Press. 6. Harrison, R. M. (Ed.). (2012). Pollution: Causes, effects, and control (5th ed.). Royal Society of Chemistry. 7. Kampa, M., & Castanas, E. (2008). Human health effects of air pollution. Environmental Pollution, 151(2), 362-367. 8. Liu, Y., Yang, L., Wang, X., Wu, L., & Li, M. (2020). Review of the effects of air pollution on human health and implications for occupational health professionals. Frontiers in Public Health, 8, 580221. 9. Muller, N. Z., Mendelsohn, R., & Nordhaus, W. D. (2014). Environmental accounting for pollution in the United States economy. American Economic Review, 104(5), 201-206. 10. World Health Organization. (2018). Ambient air pollution: Health impacts. https://www.who.int/news-room/air-pollution

Relevant topics

• Deforestation
• Ocean Pollution
• Fast Fashion
• Water Pollution
• Air Pollution
• Climate Change
• Natural Disasters
• Global Warming

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• Environmental Pollution Essay

Essay on Environmental Pollution

The environment is the surrounding of an organism. The environment in which an organism lives is made up of various components like air, water, land, etc. These components are found in fixed proportions to create a harmonious balance in the environment for the organism to live in. Any kind of undesirable and unwanted change in the proportions of these components can be termed as pollution. This issue is increasing with every passing year. It is an issue that creates economic, physical, and social troubles. The environmental problem that is worsening with each day needs to be addressed so that its harmful effects on humans as well as the planet can be discarded.

Causes of Environmental Pollution 

With the rise of the industries and the migration of people from villages to cities in search of employment, there has been a regular increase in the problem of proper housing and unhygienic living conditions. These reasons have given rise to factors that cause pollution. 

Environmental pollution is of five basic types namely, Air, Water, Soil, and Noise pollution. 

Air Pollution: Air pollution is a major issue in today’s world. The smoke pouring out of factory chimneys and automobiles pollute the air that we breathe in. Gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulphur dioxide are emitted with this smoke which mixes with air and causes great harm to the human body, flora, and fauna. The dry-farm waste, dry grass, leaves, and coal used as domestic fuels in our villages also produce harmful gases. Acid rain occurs due to an excess of sulphur dioxide in the air.

The Main Sources of Air Pollution are as Follows:  

Automobile pollution 

Industrial air pollution 

Burning garbage 

Brick kilns 

Indoor air pollution 

Decomposed animals and plants 

Radioactive elements

Water Pollution: Water pollution is one of the most serious environmental issues. The waste products from the growing industries and sewage water are not treated properly before disposing of the wastewater into the rivers and other water bodies, thus leading to water pollution. Agricultural processes with excess fertilizers and pesticides also pollute the water bodies. 

The Main Sources of Water Pollution as Follows:  

Marine commerce. 

Industrial effluents joining seas and oceans. 

Dumping of radioactive substances into seawater. 

Sewage is disposed of into the sea by rivers. 

Offshore oil rigs. 

Recreational activities. 

Agricultural pollutants are disposed of into the water bodies.

Soil or Land Pollution: Soil pollution or land pollution results from the deposition of solid waste, accumulation of biodegradable material, deposition of chemicals with poisonous chemical compositions, etc on the open land. Waste materials such as plastics, polythene, and bottles, cause land pollution and render the soil infertile. Moreover, the dumping of dead bodies of animals adds to this issue. Soil pollution causes several diseases in man and animals like Cholera, Dysentery, Typhoid, etc.

The Main Causes of Soil Pollution are as Follows:  

Industrial waste 

Urban commercial and domestic waste 

Chemical fertilizers 

Biomedical waste 

Noise Pollution: With an increasing population, urbanization, and industrialization, noise pollution is becoming a serious form of pollution affecting human life, health, and comfort in daily life. Horns of vehicles, loudspeakers, music systems, and industrial activities contribute to noise pollution. 

The Main Sources of Noise Pollution as Follows:  

The machines in the factories and industries produce whistling sounds, crushing noise, and thundering sounds. 

Loudspeakers, horns of vehicles. 

Blasting of rocks and earth, drilling tube wells, ventilation fans, and heavy earth-moving machinery at construction sites.

How Pollution Harms Health and Environment

The lives of people and other creatures are affected by environmental pollution, both directly and indirectly. For centuries, these living organisms have coexisted with humans on the planet. 

1. Effect on the Environment

Smog is formed when carbon and dust particles bind together in the air, causing respiratory problems, haze, and smoke. These are created by the combustion of fossil fuels in industrial and manufacturing facilities and vehicle combustion of carbon fumes. 

Furthermore, these factors impact the immune systems of birds, making them carriers of viruses and diseases. It also has an impact on the body's system and organs. 

2.  Land, Soil, and Food Effects 

The degradation of human organic and chemical waste harms the land and soil. It also releases chemicals into the land and water. Pesticides, fertilisers, soil erosion, and crop residues are the main causes of land and soil pollution. 

3. Effects on water 

Water is easily contaminated by any pollutant, whether it be human waste or factory chemical discharge. We also use this water for crop irrigation and drinking. They, too, get polluted as a result of infection. Furthermore, an animal dies as a result of drinking the same tainted water. 

Furthermore, approximately 80% of land-based pollutants such as chemical, industrial, and agricultural waste wind up in water bodies. 

Furthermore, because these water basins eventually link to the sea, they contaminate the sea's biodiversity indirectly. 

4. Food Reaction

Crops and agricultural produce become poisonous as a result of contaminated soil and water. These crops are laced with chemical components from the start of their lives until harvest when they reach a mass level. Due to this, tainted food has an impact on our health and organs. 

5. Climate Change Impact 

Climate change is also a source of pollution in the environment. It also has an impact on the ecosystem's physical and biological components. 

Ozone depletion, greenhouse gas emissions, and global warming are all examples of environmental pollution. Because these water basins eventually link to the sea, they contaminate the sea's biodiversity indirectly. Furthermore, their consequences may be fatal for future generations. The unpredictably cold and hot climate impacts the earth’s natural system. 

Furthermore, earthquakes, starvation, smog, carbon particles, shallow rain or snow, thunderstorms, volcanic eruptions, and avalanches are all caused by climate change, caused entirely by environmental pollution.

How to Minimise Environmental Pollution? 

To minimise this issue, some preventive measures need to be taken. 

Principle of 3R’s: To save the environment, use the principle of 3 R’s; Reuse, Reduce and Recycle. 

Reuse products again and again. Instead of throwing away things after one use, find a way to use them again.  Reduce the generation of waste products.  

Recycle: Paper, plastics, glass, and electronic items can be processed into new products while using fewer natural resources and lesser energy. 

To prevent and control air pollution, better-designed equipment, and smokeless fuels should be used in homes and industries. More and more trees should be planted to balance the ecosystem and control greenhouse effects. 

Noise pollution can be minimised by better design and proper maintenance of vehicles. Industrial noise can be reduced by soundproofing equipment like generators, etc.  

To control soil pollution, we must stop the usage of plastic. Sewage should be treated properly before using it as fertilizers and as landfills. Encourage organic farming as this process involves the use of biological materials and avoiding synthetic substances to maintain soil fertility and ecological balance. 

Several measures can be adopted to control water pollution. Some of them are water consumption and usage that can be minimized by altering the techniques involved. Water should be reused with treatment. 

The melting icebergs in Antarctica resulted in rising sea levels due to the world's environmental pollution, which had become a serious problem due to global warming, which had become a significant concern. Rising carbon pollution poses a risk for causing natural disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones, and other natural disasters. 

The Hiroshima-Nagasaki and Chernobyl disasters in Russia have irreversibly harmed humanity. Different countries around the world are responding to these calamities in the most effective way possible. 

Different countries around the world are responding to these calamities in the most effective way possible. More public awareness campaigns are being established to educate people about the hazards of pollution and the importance of protecting our environment. Greener lifestyles are becoming more popular; for example, energy-efficient lighting, new climate-friendly autos, and the usage of wind and solar power are just a few examples. 

Governments emphasise the need to plant more trees, minimise the use of plastics, improve natural waste recovery, and reduce pesticide use. This ecological way of living has helped humanity save other creatures from extinction while making the Earth a greener and safer ecology. 

 Conclusion

It is the responsibility of every individual to save our planet from these environmental contamination agents. If preventive measures are not taken then our future generation will have to face major repercussions. The government is also taking steps to create public awareness. Every individual should be involved in helping to reduce and control pollution.

FAQs on Environmental Pollution Essay

1. What do you understand by ‘Environmental Pollution’?  

Environmental pollution is the contamination of the environment and surroundings like air, water, soil by the discharge of harmful substances.

2. What preventive measures should be taken to save our environment?

Some of the preventive measures that should be taken to save our environment are discussed below. 

We can save our environment by adopting the concept of carpooling and promoting public transport to save fuel. Smoking bars are public policies, including criminal laws and occupational safety and health regulations that prohibit tobacco smoking in workplaces and other public places.  

The use of Fossil fuels should be restricted because it causes major environmental issues like global warming.  

Encourage organic farming to maintain the fertility of the soil.

3.  What are the main sources of soil pollution?

The main sources of soil pollution as follows:

Industrial waste

Urban commercial and domestic waste

Chemical fertilizers

Biomedical waste

4. What is organic farming?

 It is a farming method that involves growing and nurturing crops without the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

Plastic Pollution Essay for Students and Children

500+ Words Essay on Plastic Pollution

Plastic is everywhere nowadays. People are using it endlessly just for their comfort. However, no one realizes how it is harming our planet. We need to become aware of the consequences so that we can stop plastic pollution . Kids should be taught from their childhood to avoid using plastic. Similarly, adults must check each other on the same. In addition, the government must take stringent measures to stop plastic pollution before it gets too late.

Uprise of Plastic Pollution

Plastic has become one of the most used substances. It is seen everywhere these days, from supermarkets to common households. Why is that? Why is the use of plastic on the rise instead of diminishing? The main reason is that plastic is very cheap. It costs lesser than other alternatives like paper and cloth. This is why it is so common.

Secondly, it is very easy to use. Plastic can be used for almost anything either liquid or solid. Moreover, it comes in different forms which we can easily mold.

Furthermore, we see that plastic is a non-biodegradable material. It does not leave the face of the Earth . We cannot dissolve plastic in land or water, it remains forever. Thus, more and more use of plastic means more plastic which won’t get dissolved. Thus, the uprise of plastic pollution is happening at a very rapid rate.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Impact of Plastic Pollution

Plastic Pollution is affecting the whole earth, including mankind, wildlife, and aquatic life. It is spreading like a disease which has no cure. We all must realize the harmful impact it has on our lives so as to avert it as soon as possible.

Plastic pollutes our water. Each year, tonnes of plastic are dumped into the ocean. As plastic does not dissolve, it remains in the water thereby hampering its purity. This means we won’t be left with clean water in the coming years.

Furthermore, plastic pollutes our land as well. When humans dump Plastic waste into landfills, the soil gets damaged. It ruins the fertility of the soil. In addition to this, various disease-carrying insects collect in that area, causing deadly illnesses.

Should Plastic Be Banned? Read the Essay here

Most importantly, plastic pollution harms the Marine life . The plastic litter in the water is mistaken for food by the aquatic animals. They eat it and die eventually. For instance, a dolphin died due to a plastic ring stuck in its mouth. It couldn’t open its mouth due to that and died of starvation. Thus, we see how innocent animals are dying because of plastic pollution.

In short, we see how plastic pollution is ruining everyone’s life on earth. We must take major steps to prevent it. We must use alternatives like cloth bags and paper bags instead of plastic bags. If we are purchasing plastic, we must reuse it. We must avoid drinking bottled water which contributes largely to plastic pollution. The government must put a plastic ban on the use of plastic. All this can prevent plastic pollution to a large extent.

FAQs on Plastic Pollution Essay

Q.1 Why is plastic pollution on the rise?

A.1 Plastic Pollution is on the rise because nowadays people are using plastic endlessly. It is very economical and easily available. Moreover, plastic does not dissolve in the land or water, it stays for more than hundred years contributing to uprise of plastic pollution.

Q.2 How is plastic pollution impacting the earth?

A.2 Plastic pollution is impacting the earth in various ways. Firstly, it is polluting our water. This causes a shortage of clean water and thus we cannot have enough supply for all. Moreover, it is also ruining our soils and lands. The soil fertility is depleting and disease-carrying insects are collecting in landfills of plastic.

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Essay on Water Pollution for Class 5

Our Earth’s surface is covered with 70 per cent of water. After having this huge resources, humans are destroying the resources of the next generation. And for all these reasons, water pollution is affecting all creatures and humans. People and Many underwater creatures are in danger. We need to aware people about the results of water pollution.

We are providing two essay samples for students of class 5 on the topic ‘Water Pollution’ for reference.

Short Essay on Water Pollution of 100 Words

Water is the most essential resource for survival on Earth. Our Earth’s surface is covered with about 70 per cent of water. But now water pollution is a serious problem on Earth.

Humans are directly responsible for this cause. They throw domestic wastages in the water surface. Factories directly drain their dirty chemical water into rivers.

People face various diseases for water pollution. Many people suffer from Arsenic pollution. Water pollution also causes that.

We need to aware people about the results of water pollution. The government made rules against deposing toxic domestic wastages in water. We hope we will recover all these problems.

Engage your Children into diverse thoughts and motivate them to improve their English with our  Essay for Class 5  and avail the Simple Essays suitable for them.

Long Essay on Water Pollution of 150 Words

Water is an important element to survive on this planet. The human body needs sixty per cent of water to live a healthy life. Without water, life is unimaginable.

But now water pollution has become a continuous threat and issue on Earth. It is affecting all animals and humans. People are not aware of the results of water pollution.

Water pollution is the results of toxic elements and impurities in water generated due to human activities. Some irresponsible humans throw their domestic wastage in water. Some people Bathe in the pond. Some people clean their clothes and dishes, even their pets too. Water is also polluted because many factories drain their dirty water into rivers.

Water pollution causes various diseases like Typhoid, Diarrhea, Black foot diseases etc.

We can be unwell if we don’t drink pure water. So we need to restrict people throwing toxic things in the water surface. We need to aware them about the environment and prevent water pollution at any cost.

10 Lines on Water Pollution in English

• Water is the most essential element to survive on this planet.
• About 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface is water-covered.
• Humans are directly responsible for water pollution.
• Government now made rules against deposing domestic wastages. By this rule, people can’t throw domestic wastages in the ponds and rivers.
• The oxygen level in the water decreases due to water pollution, and for this reason, underwater creatures suffer.
• Water pollution causes various diseases like Typhoid, Diarrhea, Black foot disease etc.
• Water cycle has been damaged for water pollution.
• Many underwater creatures are in danger due to water pollution.
• We must spread awareness about water pollution.
• We need to save water from living on Earth.

Frequently Asked Questions on Water Pollution Essay

Question: What is the Water Cycle?

Answer: The water cycle is a natural continuous process in nature. It is the cycle in which the water from oceans, seas, and lakes gets evaporated and turns to vapour. After that, it goes through the process of condensation, and finally precipitation when it falls back to Earth as rain or snow.

Question: What are the pollutants of water pollution?

Answer: Domestic wastes, insecticides and herbicides, food processing waste, pollutants from livestock operations, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) etc. pollutes water surface.

Question: How much surface of the Earth is water-covered?

Answer: About 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface is water-covered.

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Essay On Pollution For Class 5 Students In Easy Words Read Here

Today, we have much pollution in the world. Pollution is a big threat to the future of the human race. In the past, we had small problems regarding pollution and environment but now, pollution has become a big problem and we are facing lots of environmental problems.

Today i am going to speak about pollution, it is very essential to write an essay on this topic. After analysing the topic pollution we will come to know that how much pollution we produce and how much we discard. Pollution is the cause of many ill health and we can avoid it by reducing our waste production, but it is very difficult to do so.

Air pollution

Air pollution is considered the most dangerous environmental pollutant. The main cause of this pollution is smoke from industrial plants and vehicles. With the increasing number of businesses and vehicles in daily use, air pollution is increasing significantly. What causes many health problems related to bronchitis and lungs?

Water pollution

Waste from industry and households sometimes ends up in rivers and other water sources and pollutes them. There was a time when our rivers, which were considered clean and sacred, became the site of many diseases because they contained large amounts of plastic, chemical waste, etc.

Noise pollution

Noise pollution is caused by machines and other fast moving equipment in factories. In addition, street noise, fireworks and loudspeakers also cause more noise pollution.

Light pollution

Light pollution is caused by excessive and unnecessary light in an area. Light pollution is caused by the excessive use of lighting in urban areas, which leads to many problems.

Radioactive contamination

Radioactive pollution is pollution caused in the atmosphere by unwanted radioactive elements. Radioactive contamination results from weapons explosions and tests, mining, etc.

Thermal pollution

contamination refers to sudden changes in source water temperature. This change is not trivial, as it can upset the balance of the entire ecosystem.

Optical pollution

Man-made objects that affect our vision include visible pollution, such as B. Billboards, trash cans, utility poles, wires, vehicles, etc.

Effects of environmental pollution

All types of natural gases in the environment maintain their equilibrium by reacting with each other. Plants absorb some of it as food, like carbon dioxide, but think about it, if there were no woody plants on earth, what would happen?

Various pollution prevention methods

Plant more trees.

Forestry and planting trees are the best way to reduce pollution. The more trees we plant, the more carbon dioxide and other harmful gases are absorbed by the trees and our environment, making the air cleaner.

Reduction of vehicle use

The less we use cars, the less harmful gases they emit. Instead, we should be encouraging the use of bicycles.

Single-use wastes

With the right disposal methods, we can prevent toxic elements from entering the environment.

Through reprocessing and recirculation

Repetition of elements is also a good way to prevent contamination. It helps prevent waste pollution and keeps the environment clean and tidy.

There is still time to save our environment, but we all need to make an effort. To prevent pollution, we need to raise awareness on a global scale. We must be aware of our responsibility and strive to make our planet a better place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pollution simple words.

Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that cause adverse change.

What is pollution for 5th class?

Pollution for 5th class is the use of chemicals and other substances that cause harm to the environment.

What is pollution essay in English?

Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that cause adverse change. Pollution can take many forms, including air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination.

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Pollution Essay

A lot of factors like industrialization, inefficient garbage disposal, littering, etc could cause pollution. A number of factories are set up near water bodies for the ease of operation and the waste produced by such factories as bumped into the water bodies. It is extremely harmful if the water is consumed or used. Pollution is the contamination of the environment and atmosphere where do we live and make it unable to live in a healthy way.

Short and Long Essay on Pollution

We have provided below short and long essays on pollution in English for your knowledge and information. After going through the essays, you will know what pollution is and what are its main causes; how to stop pollution; its prevention etc. These essays will be helpful in your school/college assignments of essay writing, speech giving or paragraph writing, etc.

Pollution Essay 1 (100 Words)

Pollution refers to the presence of contaminants in the natural environment. Some of the examples of polluting substances are – gases like Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ), Carbon Monoxide (CO) etc; solid pollutants like plastic, sewage etc and chemicals like fertilizers as well as those produced as byproduct in factories, transportation etc.

The immediate effect of pollution is that it renders earth’s natural resources unusable, or in other words, harmful to use as well as it also causes species depletion and ecological imbalance.

It is very necessary to take essential precautionary and pro active measures to prevent any further damage that will happen due to pollution to earth and its inhabitants.

Pollution Essay 2 (150 Words)

Introduction

Pollution today has become a global concern for the health of the environment as well as the flora and fauna on the planet. Pollution has a widespread effect on the environment, including the natural resources. It makes the natural elements polluted and harmful to use, ultimately making the life on planet suffer.

What is Pollution?

When a polluting substance enters into our natural environment and contaminates it, this process is called pollution. These pollutants are mostly formed due to several human activities, mostly economical in nature. To state few examples – Carbon Monoxide (CO) released by transportation vehicles pollute the air; trail of oil left by big ocean liners, pollute the ocean and makes water harmful for aquatic life.

Pollution is the immediate threat that the environment faces today and is also the most prominent one. The clock is ticking continuously and with every passing moment the damage to the environment is increasing. Immediate action to preserve the environment against pollution is needed to be taken by the government and other stake holders.

Pollution Essay 3 (200 Words)

In a lay man terms pollution occurs when something unwanted enters into your natural environment. The release of toxic gas on burning of plastic is pollution; mixing of harmful chemicals with the soil when it is mixed with chemical fertilizers, is pollution; when the disposed waste from your house, somehow reaches into the open environment, it cause pollution. Similarly there could be several other examples of pollution. As for now, we will discuss below the types of pollution.

Types of Pollution

The five major types of pollution are given below-

1) Air Pollution

Its main source is the burning of fossil fuels by the transportation vehicles and smoke emanated from the factories.

2) Water Pollution

Its main source is the runoff water from urban settlements, agricultural fields and release of byproducts from factories.

3) Soil Pollution

Soil pollution could be caused from several factors like – improper disposal of waste, use of harmful chemicals in agriculture industry etc.

4) Light Pollution

Light Pollution refers to more than required presence of light in a polluted area, which is large enough to interfere with the natural environment.

5) Noise Pollution

Noise pollution refers to the presence of excessive noise generated by human activities like, road transport vehicles, jet planes, a busy market, loudspeaker announcements etc.

Whatever may be the type of pollution, it always has a degrading effect on the environment and human health or else affects one or the other living species on earth. Light pollution confuses roosting birds, often causing fatal accidents.

Pollution Essay 4 (600 Words)

Today, the very existence of human life on planet earth, along with the life of other flora and fauna is threatened up to a large extent by the pollution. Pollution affects everything essential for survival – natural resources, species, health etc.

What is Pollution

When any external unwanted substance, generated by a human activity enters into the environment, it causes pollution. Causes of pollution are always human induced and the natural cause of pollution is almost negligible.

There are a number of human activities those cause pollution. Tons of toxic waste generated as a byproduct in factories is left into the rivers and streams, polluting them; thousands of cubic meters of harmful gases are released by transportation vehicles, polluting the air; improperly disposed waste from urban settlements, got strewn on land and water, resulting in land as well as water pollution.

Now that we have got an idea on what is pollution, we will move on to discussing some of the significant effects of pollution.

Effects of Pollution on Environment

Pollution has a widespread effect on the environment as discussed below-

1) Polluted Air

Pollution contaminates the natural air, making it harmful to breathe. For example toxic gases released by transportation vehicles mix with the air, resulting in its pollution. When this air is inhaled by a human or animal, it causes severe respiratory ailments. Some species of animals and plants, which are highly sensitive to such kind of pollution, die.

2) Polluted Water Bodies

Improper disposal of waste generated by areas of human settlements cause this waste to reach our naturally occurring water bodies in form of runoff. The urban waste consists of several toxic compounds including plastic. This waste is non biodegradable and stays in water, making it hazardous to consume. It also results in the depletion of aquatic species population which are highly sensitive to pollution.

3) Soil Toxicity

Pollution cause due to agricultural activities like the use of chemical fertilizers, result in toxicity of the soils. Chemical fertilizers are made up of harmful chemical compounds, which got mixed with the soil, ultimately making it toxic. It affects the species of flora as well as fauna those depend on the purity of the soil for their survival.

4) Species Depletion

One of the most prominent effects of pollution on the environment is the depletion of species. When polluting substances get mixed with our natural resources, it harms the living species in some way or the other. Gaseous pollutants, cause severe respiratory ailments and decrease the life expectancy of the fauna and flora as well.

5) Global Warming

Global warming is one of the main effects of pollution which leads to a number of environmental effects. Gaseous pollutants like Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) released due to the burning of fossil fuels, stays in the atmosphere resulting in greenhouse effect. Green house effect, on the other hand is responsible for a number of factors like unexpected, climatic changes resulting in droughts, famine etc; depletion in aquatic species like coral reefs, fishes etc.

The effect of pollution on the environment is far and wide. Not only the pollution effects present but also threaten the future of several species if no concrete action to prevent pollution is taken. The rate at which the pollution is being damaged is way too more than it could be repaired. It might take centuries to reverse the damages that we have done to the environment, that too it won’t be an easy task and will require strict discipline and will to tackle pollution.

Pollution Essay 5 (800 Words)

Pollution refers to the presence of unwanted substances; know as pollutants, in the environment. Pollution is an immediate threat to the environment and causes severe damage to it. Lately, the world is recognizing the need to deal with the pollution if the earth and its biodiversity are to be preserved.

Pollution occurs when an unwanted external compound mainly generated due to human activities, enters into the environment. These compounds are referred to as the pollutants and cause severe damage to the environment. Everything that constitutes the part of the environment, that is the water bodies, air, flora and fauna, are in some way or the other get affected by the pollution. Moreover, pollution also causes global effects like Greenhouse gas effects, Global Warming and Acid Rain. Global warming refers to an increase in earth’s average surface temperature and results in conditions like famine, flood and drought. Below we will discuss about the effects of pollution on major Indian cities like Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Lucknow and Varanasi.

It must be known that an AQI between 0 to 50 is considered “Good”; 51 to 100 is considered as “Satisfactory”; 101 to 200 is considered as “Moderate”; 201 to 300 is considered as “Poor”; 301 to 400 is considered as “Very Poor”; 401 to 500 is considered as severe and a value above 500 is considered “Severe-plus or Emergency”.

Pollution Level in Delhi

As per a survey done by the World Health Organization, the National Capital Territory of Delhi stands at the lowest position in terms of air quality index, among 1650 other major cities around the world. In Delhi, children are the worst affected and as per a study, nearly 2.2 million or 50% of all children are suffering irreversible damages due to poor air quality.

Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi remains usually moderate (101-200) during January to September months. However, the AQI rapidly deteriorates during the onset of winter months from October to December. Often during these months the AQI reaches to a hazardous level of 500 plus.

The Particulate Matter levels of PM2.5 and PM10 Particulate Matters in Delhi reach up the level of 999 micrograms/m 3 . This is much above the safe limit, which is 60mg/m 3 for PM2.5 particles and 100mg/m 3 for PM10 particles.

Burning of the roots of paddy crop during the winter months in the adjoining states of Punjab and Haryana makes the situation worst in Delhi, by causing dense smoke. This method is traditionally called “Parali” and is one of the prime constituents of Pollution in Delhi.

Pollution Level in Noida

Noida, also known as New Okhla Industrial Development Authority, located in the western Uttar Pradesh, bordering Delhi is immediately behind the national capital in terms of poor air quality. Incessant construction works in and around Noida, in addition to the heavy vehicular pollution and cold winter air causes a dense, thick smog. The term smog is used for a mixture of smoke and fog, suspended in the atmosphere. The Air Quality Index of Noida also gets very poor up to the level of 500 during the winter months of October to December.

The particulate matter level of this western UP district is by and large at par with that of Delhi, often the two competing with each other for the highest concentration of particulate matters.

Pollution Level in Ghaziabad

Ghaziabad often tops the list of north Indian cities with worst Air Quality Index and pollution. Here also, like Delhi and Noida the AQI goes past the hazardous level of plus 400, mostly during the months of October to December.

The main reason behind such a poor Air Quality Index of Ghaziabad is industrial pollution and waste burning. The city is flanked by the industries on the outskirts, which results in a dense smoke emanating from the factories as well as from the transport vehicles plying to the industrial area.

The PM10 level of Ghaziabad reaches up to four times of permissible levels during October to December. Sometimes, this value is reached during the Deepawali festival, due to the incessant bursting of crackers and smoke emanated from them. PM10 Particulate Matter, which has a permissible limit of 100 microgram/m 3 , often is recorded nearing around 500 micrograms/m 3 in Ghaziabad.

Pollution Level in Lucknow

The Air Quality Index (AQI) of the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, fluctuates between moderate and poor, often crossing the 250 plus mark. Though, the situation is definitely not as bad as Delhi NCR, nevertheless, it still is alarming and requires concrete action.

The worst Air Quality Index of Lucknow was recorded as 265 in the first half of the November month. The quantity of suspended Particulate Matter has also increased significantly in Lucknow’s residential areas since the last decades.

The air of Lucknow is found to be consisting of very fine Particulate Matters, PM2.5 with concentration just below 870 microgram/m 3 , which is very highly hazardous indeed.

Pollution Level in Varanasi

The ancient pilgrimage city of Varanasi has always been in news for its everyday fluctuating population of tourists. Being the Parliamentary Constituency of Indian Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi since 2014, it has become the centre of development, with everyday construction works of some kind or the other. Though the construction is good for the city’s development point of view, it is also causing some of the worst recorded downfalls in its Air Quality.

AQI of Varanasi in 2019 is ranked at the third position on the World Health Organization’s list of fifteen most polluted cities in the world.  The people of Varanasi are facing respiratory ailments and other complications due to the ever continuing construction work.

Recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) of Varanasi reaches up to 300 which falls in the “Poor” category. The Level of Particulate Matter found in Varanasi is PM2.5, the value of which fluctuates within the range of 53microgram/m 3 to 100microgram/m 3 , which is extremely unhealthy for sensitive groups and children.

India is home to some of the world’s most polluted cities, whose position remains almost uniform though sometimes shifting a place up or down. Cities like Delhi, Noida, Calcutta, Mumbai and Varanasi all have obtained a position among the world’s most polluted cities. There is an immediate need to tackle the situation with strong will and determination. It is the time when government, people, industries all should join hands to tackle the pollution and prevent the health and environmental hazards caused by it.

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Global carbon emissions from fossil fuels reached record high in 2023

Declining coal use helped shrink U.S. emissions 3%, according to new estimates from the Global Carbon Project, even as global emissions keep the world on a path to exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming before 2030 and 1.7 degrees soon after.

Global carbon emissions from fossil fuels have risen again in 2023 – reaching record levels, according to research published Dec. 5 by the Global Carbon Project, an international consortium of scientists from more than 90 institutions. 

The researchers estimate that the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide will exceed 40 billion tons in 2023, including nearly 37 billion tons from fossil fuels. Overall emissions are up 1.1% compared to 2022 levels and 1.5% compared to pre-pandemic levels, continuing a 10-year plateau.

The United States, the planet’s second largest emitter after China, saw emissions decline 3% in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily due to a long-term decline in coal use driven by both economic and environmental factors, said Earth system scientist Rob Jackson of Stanford University, who has chaired the Global Carbon Project for nearly a decade.

“Cleaning up our energy system saves lives today, not just at some future point. Thousands of people are still alive because we have substantially cut coal use,” said Jackson, the Miche lle and Kevin Douglas Provostial Professor in the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability .

Cleaning up our energy system saves lives today, not just at some future point. Thousands of people are still alive because we have substantially cut coal use. ” Rob Jackson Michelle and Kevin Douglas Provostial Professor

Bigger changes are urgently needed, however. “There’s a common narrative, especially in Congress, that the U.S. has cut emissions more than any other country. But that’s only true because our emissions were so high to start with,” Jackson said. On a per capita basis, U.S. emissions remain twice those of Europe and China, and eight times those of India. 

Transportation is the largest source of emissions in the United States, and one of the most difficult to predict. “Three years after COVID first hit, we don’t know yet what the long-term effects on mass transit will be,” Jackson said. “Electric vehicles are starting to slow oil use a bit in the United States, but we remain far from net zero in the U.S. and globally.” 

Although small compared to the emissions impact from fossil fuels and transportation, wildfires had an unusually large carbon footprint this year, with analysis of satellite records showing Canada’s emissions reached six to eight times the nation’s 20-year average due to an extreme wildfire season. Globally, fires contributed about 6 million tons of carbon dioxide during the first nine months of the year, 7-9% more than average.

Warming beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius appears ‘inevitable’

The Global Carbon Project’s new estimates arrive in the middle of the climate summit known as COP28, where countries that signed the 2015 Paris Agreement are discussing efforts to achieve the accord’s goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and preferably below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

“The impacts of climate change are evident all around us, but action to reduce carbon emissions from fossil fuels remains painfully slow,” said lead study author Pierre Friedlingstein of the Global Systems Institute at the University of Exeter in the UK. “It now looks inevitable we will overshoot the 1.5 C target of the Paris Agreement, and leaders meeting at COP28 will have to agree rapid cuts in fossil fuel emissions even to keep the 2 C target alive.”

The latest CO 2 data demonstrate that current efforts are insufficient to put global emissions on a downward trajectory towards “net zero,” said Corinne Le Quéré , a professor of climate change science at University of East Anglia’s School of Environmental Sciences. 

“Net zero” refers to the goal of cutting emissions to the point where any greenhouse gases still produced by human activities can be removed using technology. “But some trends in emissions are beginning to budge, showing climate policies can be effective," Le Quéré said. Emissions from fossil fuels declined in 27 countries during the decade ending in 2022 while their economies grew – up from 22 countries decreasing their emissions in the decade ending in 2012.

If current carbon dioxide emissions levels persist, the remaining carbon budget for a 50% chance to limit warming to 1.5 C could be exceeded in seven years, and in 15 years for 1.7 C. Returning global temperatures below these thresholds after they have been crossed would require a massive scale-up of carbon dioxide removal after global net zero emissions has been reached.

Currently, about half of all CO 2 emitted is absorbed by land and ocean sinks, the Global Carbon Project reports, with the rest remaining in the atmosphere where it causes climate change. Technology-based carbon dioxide removal pulled only about 10,000 tons of the gas from the atmosphere in 2023. Over a million times more carbon dioxide entered the atmosphere this year because of fossil fuels. 

This story was adapted from materials provided by the University of Exeter.

Rob Jackson is also a senior fellow at the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment and Precourt Institute for Energy .

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Essay on Pollution

An essay on pollution is an essential concept for students as it reveals the consequences of human activities on the environment. Read on to explore how to write an intriguing and engaging essay on pollution.

Essay on Pollution – Important Guidelines

Please consider adopting the following suggestions when writing an essay on pollution. Moreover, these suggestions will be helpful for most other essays as well.

• Begin with an introductory paragraph, preferably highlighting the history or insight of the topic.
• Try to avoid jargon unless the topic demands so.
• Use bulleted points to present content wherever possible
• Incorporate factual data, such as dates, names and places wherever possible.
• Avoid writing a large monotonous block of text. Always break up the content into easily digestible chunks
• Try to conclude the essay with a closing paragraph.

Essay on Pollution – Sample 1

Pollution had existed long before humans evolved. For instance, volcanic eruptions commonly pumped massive amounts of sulphur dioxide into the atmosphere, causing acid rain. The greenhouse gas, ozone, forms from natural, photochemical reactions in the atmosphere. 

However, significant levels of pollution occurred only after the Industrial Revolution, when untreated exhausts and toxic waste products were released into the environment. Air pollution was rampant, with thick, toxic smog covering most towns and cities. Water pollution affected many water bodies. Toxic substances leached into the soil, hampering the soil quality.

Today, there have been many measures to curb the effects of pollution, but its repercussions can still be observed. For instance, the land and sea ice near the poles have been decreasing at an alarming rate. This has led to the debate regarding climatic factors and their impact on our environment. There was a time when lead used to be added to motor fuel. This substance, combined with the world’s increasing demand for motor vehicles, caused a spike in air pollution. What made this air pollution more dangerous is the fact that the air had high levels of lead.

Lead is toxic and can cause a vast array of health problems. The most common illnesses are neurological in nature. Lead can also travel through the placenta, between a mother and her unborn child. Moreover, young children and infants are even more sensitive to lead. They can develop learning deficits, behavioural problems and also a low IQ.

Furthermore, some studies have arrived at a “lead-crime postulate”, where children who were exposed to high levels of lead were more likely to indulge in criminal activities. This correlation was made as to the crime rates during the 1980s, and early 1990s were rather high. Lead can also cause neurological effects on vertebrates and impair the reproductive capabilities of plants. More ominously, lead can be absorbed into the tissues of such organisms, and they can pass it on to us when we consume them.

Technological progress also brings newer forms of pollution. Radioactive pollution is one of the rarer types of pollution. This type of pollution occurs naturally as well – elements such as uranium and thorium are present in rocks and soil. Carbon-14 is a radioactive isotope of carbon naturally present in all living organisms. It is created by cosmic rays. However, these natural sources of radiation are of little concern. Only anthropogenic sources of radioactivity are considered lethal sources of pollution. For instance, the Chernobyl nuclear disaster is the most publicised nuclear disaster ever to occur. The total death count was documented to be at 16,000. However, unofficial reports indicated that the death toll was much higher. Most deaths occurred due to acute radiation poisoning and many other deaths were caused due to radioactivity-induced cancer. Though it has been more than a few decades, radioactivity still persists around the site of the nuclear reactor. Efforts to contain the radioactivity included building the Shelter Structure, more popularly known as the “sarcophagus”. It was built in December 1986 and enclosed the reactor, preventing radiation from leaking through the building. 

Though the levels of pollution have dropped down since the industrial revolution, we still see many repercussions to this day. Following are some extreme cases of pollution caused by anthropological activities.

The Great Smog of London was a severe case of air pollution that occurred in 1952. The event caused massive disruption by severely affecting visibility. It also caused a variety of respiratory illnesses in 1,00,000 individuals and the death of over 4,000 as a direct result of the smog. 

In India, pollution is even more rampant. Delhi has recorded one of the worst cases of air pollution, with the air rated as “hazardous” in November 2017.

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Further Reading: Water Pollution

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