Pollution is the introduction of harmful substances into the environment at levels higher than normal. It can be caused by both natural events and by human activities. The term ‘pollution’ can also be used to refer to substances or agents that do not introduce harmful materials but cause changes to our environment, such as noise, light and temperature.
The most familiar type of pollution is air pollution, which can be visible in the form of smog. This is caused by nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide gases, which are emitted from cars and power-producing plants. It is also caused by small particulates (like soot) that can enter the bloodstream and trigger respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases and asthma. Air pollution is a major cause of death in cities and is linked to many other health issues.
Other types of pollution include water pollution, which is contaminated by substances such as sewage, chemicals from factories and detergents, and land pollution which occurs when chemicals leach into soil. Chemicals in the water can be absorbed through plant roots and can reach marine life. Land pollutants can be found in the form of plastic pollution, which includes abandoned and discarded man-made objects, as well as microplastics that are ingested by fish and other organisms.
There are many things you can do to help reduce pollution. For example, try to avoid driving a car that produces high amounts of emissions and use an electric or hybrid vehicle instead. Switch to hand-powered lawn equipment, which will produce less pollution than gas-powered versions. If you must drive, keep the engine turned off when not in motion and keep a fuel particulate filter clean to help reduce air pollution.
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