Pollution is the introduction of foreign substances or energies into the natural environment that cause harm to living organisms. It can be caused by chemical, physical or biological agents. Pollution is a significant source of illness and death, especially in developing countries. It also contributes to economic costs, loss of productivity and reduced life expectancy.
Air pollution causes breathing problems like asthma, COPD and emphysema and cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. It can lead to cancer, premature birth and other reproductive health problems. Children and the elderly are more at risk from the effects of air pollution.
Land pollution can be caused by mining and industrial activities, waste disposal and agricultural use of fertilizers and pesticides. It can also occur when water or air picks up pollutants from the soil. Land pollution can be exacerbated by the fact that poorer communities are often closer to landfills and dumpsites than wealthier ones.
Increasing awareness of the need to protect the environment has led to major pieces of environmental legislation in many countries. Since the publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring in 1962, there has been an increased understanding that the environment is in peril and that humans need to protect it.
Air pollution is the biggest threat to human health, responsible for more deaths than tobacco and shortening average life expectancy globally by two years. It’s particularly harmful to the young and elderly, and it disproportionately impacts low-income communities and minority groups worldwide.