VAC-121 (2+1=3)

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Lecture 1
Introduction to Environmental Studies

• Environment consists of surroundings which includes abiotic and biotic environment.

• Environment refers to sum of all i.e. water, air and land, along with their inter-relationships
among themselves and also other living organisms.
• Environment can be studied by interpreting the knowledge from all the disciplines.
• Global environment constitutes important segment i.e. atmosphere, hydrosphere and
lithosphere. Nitrogen, oxygen and argon are major gases which account for 99% of air.
• Hydrosphere consist of sea, ocean, rivers, glaciers, lakes, reservoirs, polar ice caps, and shallow
water ground bodies and about 70% of earth‘s surface covered with water .

Environment: The word environment is derived from the French word “environner”, which
means surrounding.
Environment can be defined as the combined interaction of physical, chemical and biological
conditions affecting an individual or community in the complex of social and cultural conditions.
Environment Science:
Environmental science is a systematic study of our environment under different micro
climatic conditions and it is multi disciplinary in nature. OR
The application of scientific principles to understand environmental issues by studying
the impact of interaction between different parameters of environment.
 Environmental science has evolved from integrated use of many disciplines
 Environmental science integrates natural sciences, social sciences with environmental
ethics, environmental impact and planning.
 Environmental science has emerged as a multi-disciplinary field of study to access the
impact of interaction of living beings and micro environments in which they live.
Environmental Science As a Multi Disciplinary Field
Environmental science and biology :
Biology mainly deals with life and environment factors have affect on living organisms.
Interaction between living things and different components of environment will affect the
efficiency and combined effect can be known as environmental biochemistry. Biological
processes in nature profoundly influenced by chemical species existing and these processes will
determine the nature of species, their degradation, and synthesis, both in the aquatic and soil
environments. Study of such phenomena is the basis of biochemistry of environment.
Environmental science v/s chemistry
Chemistry deals with chemical processes occurring in nature. When these processes are studied in the
shape of reaction which affects the existence of different species, with special reference to air, soil
and water environment, this relationship is termed as environmental chemistry.
One of environmental chemistry‘s major challenges is the determination of the nature and quantity of
specific pollutants in the environments
Relationship between environment and economics
Economic environment refers to all factors or forces, which contribute to economic impact on the
man, his activities and his region. Resources such as agriculture, dairying, fisheries poultry,
horticulture, floriculture and machinery help to improve economic condition. Economic conditions,
internal and external factors such as export and import balances create favourable economic
environment for fast development of the country.
Social system and environment
Social environment of the society indicate the mental makeup of man‘s activities and helps the
individual to decide his occupation and use of resources for his development. Infrastructure such as
roads, buildings, settlements, communication setup plantation of horticulture and cropped fields are
major component which helps to create social environment. Using the combination of tools of
modern technology indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) can help to fasten the change of physical
environment into cultural environment.
Impact of population on environment
Work force is a major factor to fasten the role of individual in socio-economic environment of a
country. Population density can have significant effect on natural environment. It can be observed
that high population density have negative effects on environment. The world population, which is
growing at alarming rate (annually 1.7 %) has damaged the environment significantly. The growing
trend which is likely to continue for another three to four decades, which may further damage
physical, social and economic environment at both global and national level.
Political climate and environment
Main political institutions such as Legislature, executive and judiciary which constitutes the political
setup of any country can help to provide visionary leadership. Political decisions by policy makers
can have a direct effect on development and control of various human activities, which includes
formulation of laws related to increase the productivity, income and town planning. The executives
are pillars of policy implementation decided by legislature. A stable and dynamic political setup is
pre requisite for development of the nation. Stable government can guide the nation by taking firm
decisions. In a democratic setup, the executive should function in public interest and within the
boundaries of the constitution.
Importance of Environmental studies:
 To understand the trends of increasing world population is increasing at an alarming rate
especially in developing countries and it's impacts on environment.
 The natural resources endowment in the earth is limited.
 The methods and techniques of exploiting natural resources are advanced.
 The resources are over-exploited and there is no foresight of leaving the resources to the
future generations.
 The unplanned exploitation of natural resources lead to pollution of all types and at all
levels.
 The pollution and degraded environment seriously affect the health of all living things on
earth, including man.
 The people should take a combined responsibility for the deteriorating environment and
begin to take appropriate actions to space the earth.
 Education and training are needed to save the biodiversity and species extinction.
 The urban area, coupled with industries, is major sources of pollution. The number and
area extinct under protected area should be increased so that the wild life is protected at
least in these sites.
 The study enables the people to understand the complexities of the environment and need
for the people to adapt appropriate activities and pursue sustainable development, which
are harmonious with the environment.
 The study motivates students to get involved in community action, and to participate in
various environmental and management projects.
  It is a high time to reorient educational systems and curricula towards these needs.
 Environmental studies take a multidisciplinary approach to the study of human
interactions with the natural environment. It integrates different approaches of the
humanities, social sciences, biological sciences and physical sciences and applies these
approaches to investigate environmental concerns.
 Environmental study is a key instrument for bringing about the changes in the
knowledge, values, behaviors and lifestyles required to achieve sustainability and
stability within and among countries.
 Earth‘s living components establish equilibrium with their environment. Environmental
science helps to understand the scientific basis to establish different standards which help
to keep the equilibrium in the ecosystem.
 Majority of environmental scientists are of the view that if environmental pollution i.e.
air, water and soil continued at the present rate the change will be irreversible and may
cause damage to ecological cycles and balances in the ecosystem which is may harm the
life of living organisms on the earth.
 To maintain the ecological balance in the ecosystems, drastic changes have to be
inculcated in the human behaviour .There is well known fact that universe does not have
infinite resources to support the future generation. Earth‘s limited resources must be
conserved and reused where ever possible. Policy makers at global level must devise new
strategies to protect natural ecosystem, keeping balance with economic growth. Future
growth of developing nations depends upon the development of sustainable conservation
methods that protect the environment, while also meeting the basic needs of citizens.
 An environmental study is the subject in which we examine important issues relating to
environment as they affect our lives. It is an exploratory description of issues. Each issue
can be probed more deeply.
Objectives of Environment Education
The objectives of Environmental Education are classified as follows:
Knowledge: to help social groups and individuals, gain a variety of experiences and acquire a
basic understanding of the environment and its associated problems.
Awareness: to help social groups and individuals acquire an awareness of and sensitivity to the
total environment and its allied problems.
Attitudes: to help social groups and individuals to acquire a set of values and promote a feeling
of concern for the environment and provide motivation for actively participating in environmental
improvement and protection.
Participation: to provide social groups and individuals with an opportunity to be actively
involved at all levels, working towards the resolution of environmental problems.
Skills: to help social groups and individual to acquires the skills for identifying and solving
environmental problems
Evaluation Ability: to evaluate environmental measures and education programs in terms of
ecological, economic, social and aesthetic factors.
Scope of environmental studies:
Environmental studies discipline has multiple and multilevel scopes. This study is important and
necessary not only for children but also for everyone. The scopes are summarized as follows:
The study creates awareness among the people to know about various renewable and
nonrenewable resources of the region. The endowment or potential, patterns of utilization and the
balance of various resources available for future use in the state of a country are analysed in the
study.
It provides the knowledge about ecological systems and cause and effect relationships.
It provides necessary information about biodiversity richness and the potential dangers to the
species of plants, animals and microorganisms in the environment.
The study enables one to understand the causes and consequences due to natural and main
induced disasters (flood, earthquake, landslide, cyclones etc.,) and pollutions and measures to
minimize the effects.
It enables one to evaluate alternative responses to environmental issues before deciding an
alternative course of action.
The study enables environmentally literate citizens (by knowing the environmental acts, rights,
rules, legislations, etc.) to make appropriate judgments and decisions for the protection and
improvement of the earth.
The study exposes the problems of over population, health, hygiene, etc. and the role of arts,
science and technology in eliminating/ minimizing the evils from the society.
The study tries to identify and develop appropriate and indigenous eco-friendly skills and
technologies to various environmental issues.
It teaches the citizens the need for sustainable utilization of resources as these resources are
inherited from our ancestors to the younger generating without deteriorating their quality.
The study enables theoretical knowledge into practice and the multiple uses of environment.

Lecture 2
Segments of Environment
(Spheres of Earth – Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere and Different Layers of
Atmosphere)
Environment consists of four segments:
1. Atmosphere- Blanket of gases surrounding the earth.
2. Hydrosphere- Various water bodies present on the earth.
3. Lithosphere- Contains various types of soils and rocks on the earth.
4. Biosphere- Composed of all living organisms and their interactions with the environment.
Spheres of earth:
 The earth comprises three spheres— Lithosphere, Hydrosphere and Atmosphere.
These spheres are generally considered as land (soil), water and air respectively.
 The study of lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere is
known 'Geomorphology', Oceanography and Climatology respectively.

1] LITHOSPHERE:
 The term' Lithosphere' is the combination of two Greek words Lithos (= rocky, solid)
and Sphaira (= sphere). Thus, the meaning of Lithosphere is solid layers of rock material
on the earth's surface, both on the continents and ocean floors.
 Earth's lithosphere constitutes the hard and rigid outer vertical layer of the earth.
 The lithosphere is subdivided horizontally into tectonic plates.
 The lithosphere (or land) covers approx. 29% (exactly, 29.22%) of total area of the
earth.
 The lithosphere is comprised of the crust and the uppermost mantle.
 The Earth's interior is made up of three layers, namely Crust (Sial), Mantle (Sima) and
Core (Nife). The crustal layer extends between 30 km to 100 km deep.
Structure of Earth's Interior:
Crust (Sial) :
The crust is thicker in the continents than on the ocean floors. The crustal layer is of
lighter density compared to the interior layers. As the crustal layer comprises of rocks rich in
Silica and Aluminum, it is called Sial =Silica +Aluminum) layer.
Mantle (Sima) :
Below the Sial layer lies the mantle layer which extends up to a depth of 2900 km. As the
mantle comprises of materials rich in Silica and Magnesium, it is called Sima (=silica
+Magnesium) layer.
Core (Nife) :
The core of the earth consists of metals in liquid or plastic state of high temperature and
pressure. The core of the earth has a radius of 3400 km. As Nickel and Ferrum (Latin name of
Iron) are dominant in the core, it is called Nife (=Nickel +Ferrum) layer. This accounts for
Earth's magnetism.

2] HYDROSPHERE :
 The term Hydrosphere is the combination of two Greek words Hydro (= water, liquid)
and Sphaira (= sphere). Thus, the meaning of Hydrosphere is the layer of water on the
surface of the earth in the form of oceans, lakes, rivers and other waterbodies.
 Hydrosphere (or water) covers approx. 71% (exactly 70.78%) of the total surface area of the
earth. Therefore, the earth is sometimes called a watery planet. It is also known as Blue
Planet because the earth appears blue due to water from the space.
 Continents may be considered as large islands rising from the vast oceans.
 Water occurs on the land in the form of ice-sheets in polar region and in the form of glaciers
on high mountains. Water occurs in the water in the form of liquid water or ice-floes in the
oceans and seas. Water also occurs below the surface of the land in the form of underground
water. Water also occurs above the surface of land in the form of water-vapour in the lower
layers of the atmosphere.
 Even flora (plants) and fauna (animals), including man are predominantly made up of water.
This means water is base of lives of flora and fauna. That's why, it is saying 'Water is
life' or 'If there is water there is life' or, 'As long as there is water there is life' and so on.
 Out of the total volume of water available, 97% lie in the vast oceans but it is saline
water. 2% is stored in the form of ice-sheets and less than 1% is available as fresh water i.e.
non-saline/non-salty water.
 The earth has an abundance of water, but unfortunately, only a small percentage (about
0.3%), is even usable by humans (men). The other 99.7% lies in the oceans, ice-sheets, fresh
waterbodies, soils (surface water and underground water), and floating in the
atmosphere. Still, much of the 0.3% water that is usable is unattainable. Most of the water
used by humans comes from the rivers. The visible bodies of water are referred as surface
water. The majority of water is actually found underground as soil moisture and in aquifers.
Ground water can feed the streams, that's why a river can keep flowing even when there has
been no precipitation. Human can use both surface and ground water. Drinkable water is
called Potable water.

WATER-CYCLE:
 The circulation of water among hydrosphere, atmosphere and lithosphere is called water-
cycle or hydrological-cycle.
 Differential heating by the Sun is responsible for the circulation of water in the hydrosphere,
similar to the circulation of air in atmosphere.
 When the surface water in the oceans, seas, rivers, lakes etc. gets heated by the Sun's rays,
evaporation takes place and water-vapour is added on to the lower layers of the atmosphere.
As we know that water-vapour in the atmosphere may get cooled leading to condensation of
water into tiny droplets which form clouds. Such clouds may cause precipitation of water in
the form of rainfall or snowfall on the surface. Rainfall on the land leads to surface run-off
in the form of rivers which reach the oceans ultimately.
 In this process of circulation, water is consumed by plants and animals, in the biosphere.
Water may get temporarily stored on the land in the form of ice-sheets, lakes, ponds or as
underground water below the land surface.

3] BIOSPHERE:
 The biosphere refers to the realm of living organisms and their interactions with the
environment (viz., atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere)
 The biosphere is very large and complex and is divided into smaller units called
ecosystems.
 Plants, animals and microorganisms which live in a definite zone along with physical
factors such as soil, water and air constitute an ecosystem.
 Within each ecosystems there are dynamic inter relationships between living forms and
their physical environment
 These inter relationships manifest as natural cycles.(hydrologic cycle, oxygen cycle,
nitrogen cycle, phosphorous cycle and sulphur cycle),
 The natural cycles operate in a balanced manner providing a continuous circulation of
essential constituents necessary for life and this stabilizes and sustains the life processes
on earth.
4] ATMOSPHERE:
 The term Atmosphere is combination of two Greek words, Atmos (= vapour)
and Sphaira (= sphere). Thus, the meaning of atmosphere is gaseous envelop that
surrounds the earth.
 Among the three major elements of environment, the atmosphere is the most dynamic as
changes take place in it not only from one season to another, but also over shorter periods
of a few hours.
 Out of the total mass of the atmosphere, 99% found in a height of 32 km from the earth's
surface. It is to be noted that most of the atmospheric changes occur within this layer.
 The atmosphere is held to the earth by the force of gravity.
 The study of lower layers and upper layers of atmosphere is known
as 'Meteorology' and' Aeorology' respectively.
COMPOSITION OF ATMOSPHERE:
 The atmosphere is mechanical mixture of gases. It contains a huge number of solid and
liquid particles called aerosols.
 Some gases are permanent atmospheric constituents in fixed proportion to the total gases
volume. Others vary from place to place and time to time.
 Nitrogen and oxygen constitute about 99% of the clean dry air. The remaining mostly
inert and constitute about 1% of the atmosphere.

Permanent gases:The following are the principal gases comprising dry air in the lower
atmosphere (Below 25 km.), in percentage by volume approximately.
 Nitrogen (N2) 78.08 % Krypton (Kr) Trace
Oxygen (O2) 20.95 % Xenon (Xe) Trace
Argon (Ar) 0.93 % Methane (CH4) 0.00017 %
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 0.034 % Carbon monoxide(CO) Trace
Neon (Ne) 0.0018 % Ammonia (NH3) Trace
Helium (He) 0.0005 % Sulphur dioxide (SO2) Trace
Ozone (O3) 0.000004 % Nitrous oxide (NO2) 0.00003%
Hydrogen (H2) 0.00006% Iodine (I) Trace

Moisture (Water vapour): Water vapour is one of the most variable gases in the
atmosphere, which is present in small amounts, but is very important.
 The water vapour content of air may vary from 0.02 per cent by volume in a cold dry
climate to nearly 4 per cent (about 3 per cent by weight) in the humid tropics and it is
absent above 10 to 12 km from ground level.
 About 90 per cent water vapour lies in 6 km of atmosphere from ground because earth’s
surface is the source and only 1 per cent above 10 to 12 km of atmosphere from earth
surface.
 It is largely derived from oceans through the evaporation of water. It is also derived
through evapotranspiration from soil, plants, vegetable and evaporation from rivers,
canals, lakes, ponds, surface, open well and various other water bodies.
 The variations in this percentage over time and place are very important considerations
climatically like CO2, water vapour has insulating action of the atmosphere.
 It absorbs not only the long wave terrestrial radiation, but also a part of the incoming
solar radiation. Thus it regulates energy transfer through the atmosphere.
 Water vapour is the source of all clouds and perceptions.
 It is an important component of hydrological cycle.
 The capacity of air to hold moisture increases with increase in temperature.
Aerosols or impurities (Dust particles):
 It includes all solid and dust particles present suspended in the atmosphere.
 Many aerosols are invisible to the naked eyes and are microscopic.
 These particles are sea salt from breaking sea waves, pollens, fine seeds of plants,
spores, bacteria, and various microorganisms, smoke and black carbon from fires, tiny
sand particles, volcanic ash and meteoric dust, etc.
 Aerosols enter the atmosphere by urban and industrial pollution, agricultural practices,
forest fires, sea sprays, volcanic activities and wind raised dust.
 It may contribute up to 30 per cent of atmospheric air. Dust particles are a major
contributory factor in the formation of clouds and fogs. It is responsible for the red,
orange colour of the sky at sunrise and sunset.
 They absorb a part of incoming shortwave solar radiation.
 Aerosol such as sulphate, soot, organic carbon and mineral dust, scatters sunlight back to
space and thereby cause a regional cooling effect.
 Some of the dust particles are hygroscopic and act as nuclei of condensation, resulting in
cloud formation and precipitation.
 Variable constituents: CO2, Water vapours, aerosols.
 Non-variable Constituents: Gases like nitrogen, oxygen, ozone, argon, etc.
Layering /Structure of atmosphere: Atmosphere can be divided into two spheres on the bases
of its compositions with respect to height.
1) Homosphere 2) Heterosphere
Homosphere: In the lower region, up to the height of 80-90 km, various gases are thoroughly
mixed and are homogeneous due to the process of turbulent mixing and diffusion. Composition
of this sphere remains normally same. The proportions of the component gases of the sphere are
uniform at different levels.
Sub-divided into
Troposphere - Very shallow transition layer Tropopause
Stratosphere - Stratopause
Mesosphere - Mesopause

Heterosphere:
 The atmosphere above the homosphere is not uniform in composition. In heterosphere
gaseous composition changes and the various, gases form individually separate layers with
chemical and physical properties.
 The lower portion of heterosphere
 Oxygen and Nitrogen layer – 115 to 200 km above earth’s surface molecular N.
 Atomic oxygen layer – 200-965 km.
 Helium layer – 965-2400 km.
 Hydrogen layer – 2400-10,000 km.
Distribution of the gases is governed by Earth’s gravitational force, thus heavier gases sink
downward, while lighter gases remain at higher altitude.
Extent of the atmosphere:
 There is no sharp boundary between the atmosphere and extra-terrestrial space.
 It is difficult to ascertain the height of atmosphere. Its density becomes less and less with
altitude.
 Half of mass of atmosphere is up to 5.5 km from the ground surface.
 Average density is 1.2 kg per m3 at surface and 0.7 kg per m3 at 5000 m.
 Air may exist up to 400 km in perceptible quantity.
 The weight of air on surface at sea level is about 10,000 kg per m2.
 The weight of atmosphere is 5.6 x 1014 metric tonnes.

1. Troposphere:
 The lowest layer of atmosphere is called the troposphere.
 Altitude of this layer changes according to latitude.
 This layer is thick (16 km) at equator while it is thin (8 km) at poles.
 It contains 75 per cent of gaseous mass, water vapors and aerosols.
 This is the region where weather phenomena is very well marked and hence described as
weather making layer of atmosphere.
 Temperature decreases fairly uniform with altitude until minimum temperature of -50 to -
600C is reached.
 There is general decrease of temperature with height at a minimum rate of about 6.50C per
km.
 The temperature decrease with increase in height is called as lapse rate.
 The top of troposphere where the decrease of temperature with height ceases is tropopause.
 The average temperature at tropopause over equator is -800C while -400C over poles.
 The height of tropopause varies with season.

2. Stratosphere:
 It is second layer above troposphere up to 50 km contains about 10 per cent of atmospheric
mass and much of atmosphere ozone.
 The density of ozone is highest at 22 km approx.
 Ozone at the upper layer absorbs the ultraviolet rays from the sun.
 The ultraviolet rays are quite detrimental to living things on the globe of earth. Stratosphere
acts as a protective layer which absorbs ultraviolet rays.
 This layer is thicker at poles.
 The air density is much lower in stratosphere even though temperature rises with height due
to limited absorption of ultraviolet solar radiation by ozone in summer.
 There are marked complex seasonal changes in winter and may found low temperatures at
equator and in middle stratosphere at high altitude.

 The events in this layer are linked with temperature and circulation changes in the
troposphere.
 A layer at height of 50 km where maximum temperature was observed due to absorption of
ultraviolet solar radiation by ozone and which separates stratosphere to mesosphere is
called as stratopause.

3. Mesosphere (Ozonosphere):
 The temperature of this layer decreases to a minimum of about -900C at about 80 km.
 Above 80 km the temperature again begins to rise with rise with height (temperature
inversion) and thin isothermal layer which separates mesosphere from thermosphere is
mesopause.
 Molecular oxygen and ozone layers absorb solar radiation to increase temperature around
85 km height. Most meteors bun and disintegrate in this layer, due to which temperature of
the layer is increased.
 Due to meteoric dust particles noctilucent clouds are observed in summer nights in this
region on high altitude.

4. Thermosphere:
 Above the mesopause the atmosphere densities are extremely low.
 The lower portion of the atmosphere is composed mainly of nitrogen and oxygen in
molecular form (N2 & O2) and atomic oxygen (O), whereas above 200 km atomic oxygen
predominant over nitrogen and oxygen.
 Temperature increases with height due to absorption of extreme ultraviolet radiation by
molecular and atomic oxygen and reaches to about 9500C at 350 km. But it is essentially
a theoretical because artificial satellites do not gain such temperature because of rarefied
air.

5. Ionosphere :
 Above 100 km the atmosphere is increasingly affected by solar X-rays and ultraviolet
radiation which causes ionization.
 The term ionosphere is commonly applied to the layers above 80 km, although sometime
it is used only for the region of high electron density between about 100 to 300 km.

 Ionosphere is further subdivided into different layers called D layer (80 to 100 km), E
layer (100-130 km), Kennelly sporadic E layer (110 km), E2 layer (150 km), F layer (F1
and F2 150-380 km) and G layer (400 km and above).
  In these layer gases are highly refried. The layer above ionosphere is also called
exosphere.
 It extends from 400 to 1000 km. density of atoms is extremely low; atmosphere is very
rarefied.
 It resembles a nebula where hydrogen and helium gases predominate.
 At the uppermost boundary of the atmosphere the kinetic temperature is very high about
5568 0C.
 In the heterosphere (above ionosphere) the gases appear to be arranged in four spherical
shells viz., nitrogen layer, oxygen layer, helium layer and hydrogen layer, from bottom to
top, in that order.
 The nitrogen layer extends upto 200 km, above the exists the oxygen layer-atomic
oxygen-extending upto 1120 km. this layer is overlain by helium layer extending upto
3520 km. the uppermost layer is the hydrogen layer.

Lecture 3
Environmental Pollution
(Definition, Causes, Effects, Control measures: Air, Water, Soil, Marine, Noise, Thermal and
Light pollution)
Pollution:
When Harmful Substances Contaminate the Environment, it is Called Pollution.
Pollution refers to the very bad condition of environment in terms of quantity and quality.
What is Environmental Pollution?
• Environmental Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful materials into the environment.
• In other words, environmental pollution is the contamination of the physical and biological
components of the environment to such an extent that normal environmental processes are
adversely affected.
• A large portion of natural resources is under immense threat from pollution produced by
industries and manufactured utilities as well as agricultural products.

Causes of Environmental Pollution:

1. Rapid Industrialization:
The concentration of industries in urban areas releases pollutants into the air, water, and soil,
causing environmental pollution.
The rapid pace of urbanization also increases waste generation and resource consumption,
exacerbating pollution and causing severe environmental pollution.
Industries also generate hazardous wastes in many forms, including liquids, solids, gases, and
sludge.
2. Rapid Urbanization:
The increased pace of urbanization in recent times has led to worsening environmental
pollution.
It creates issues such as deforestation and habitat loss, increased emissions and waste
generation, etc.
3. Forest Fires:
The frequency of forest fires or wildfires has increased because of human actions, such as land
clearing, encroachment, etc.
These wildfires are a huge source of environmental pollution, adding large amounts of gaseous
and other pollutants to the environment.
 4. Improper Agricultural Practices
According to the IPCC report, the agriculture sector produces at least 23 % of global
greenhouse gas emissions (second only to the energy sector).
Using chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in agriculture contributes to soil and
water pollution and environmental pollution.
Intensive farming practices also lead to deforestation, soil erosion, habitat destruction and
environmental pollution.
5. Deforestation:
Deforestation refers to the decrease in forest areas worldwide that are lost for other uses, such
as agricultural croplands, urbanization, or mining activities.
This causes an imbalance in the local ecology and reduces nature’s capability to absorb
pollutants, leading to environmental pollution.
Effects of Environmental Pollution
1.Impact on Human Health: Pollution leads to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular
problems, and infections. Air pollution causes asthma, lung cancer, and heart disease, while
contaminated water results in cholera and gastrointestinal disorders. Exposure to toxic
chemicals in soil and food can lead to long-term health risks, including organ damage and
developmental issues.
2. Damage to Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Pollutants harm wildlife and disrupt natural
habitats. Water pollution affects aquatic life, leading to fish deaths and loss of marine
biodiversity. Airborne toxins damage forests, while soil contamination reduces fertility,
affecting plant and animal life. Many species face extinction due to habitat destruction
caused by pollution.
3.Climate Change Acceleration: Air pollution, particularly from greenhouse gases like CO₂
and methane, contributes to global warming. Rising temperatures lead to extreme weather
events, glacier melting, rising sea levels, and desertification, affecting both natural and
human environments worldwide.
4. Economic Consequences: Pollution affects industries such as agriculture, fishing, and
tourism. Crop yields decline due to soil and air contamination, while polluted water bodies
harm fisheries. Increased healthcare costs and loss of productivity due to pollution-related
illnesses also burden economies.
5.Degradation of Quality of Life: Excessive noise, light, and air pollution lower life
expectancy and mental well-being. Polluted cities experience reduced visibility, foul odors,
and poor living conditions, making daily life uncomfortable and unhealthy for residents.
Types of Environmental Pollution
1. Air pollution: Air Pollution is the contamination of the atmosphere with harmful
substances that can adversely affect human health, ecosystems, and climate.
• Air pollution is caused by releasing harmful gases and particulate matter into the
atmosphere.
• Significant sources of air pollution include industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and
burning fossil fuels, which causes environmental pollution.
• Air Pollution is linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and global
phenomena like acid rain and climate change.
The air pollutants classified into the two types:
1. Primary Pollutants:
• These pollutants enter the air due to a natural event or human activity.
• They can have effects both directly and as precursors of secondary air pollution.
• There are five primary pollutants that contribute about 90 % of the global air pollution.
These are carbon oxides (CO and CO2), nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides, volatile organic
compounds (mostly hydrocarbons), and suspended particulate matter.
2. Secondary Pollutants:
A secondary pollutant is formed by reacting one primary pollutant with another in the
atmosphere. eg., Ground-Level Ozone, Smog, acid Rain, sulphuric acid, nitric acid, and carbonic
acid.

Sources /Causes of Air Pollution:

Industrial Emissions: The burning of fossil fuels for energy production, manufacturing
processes, and transportation releases air pollution, such as particulate matter, sulfur oxides,
nitrogen oxides, and greenhouse gases, into the air.
Vehicle Emissions: Exhaust from cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles contribute to air
pollution, particularly in urban areas.
Domestic Combustion: The burning of wood, coal, and other fuels for cooking and heating in
homes releases air pollutants, causing air pollution.
Agricultural Activities: Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides and burning agricultural waste
can release harmful substances into the atmosphere.
Natural Sources: Volcanic eruptions, forest fires, and dust storms pollute the air pollution.
Impacts of Air Pollution
Health Impacts:
 Air pollution poses serious health risks, including respiratory diseases such as asthma and
chronic bronchitis, cardiovascular conditions, and premature mortality.
 Exposure to high levels of air pollution can also exacerbate health problems and reduce
life expectancy.
 Long-term exposure to air pollution can also adversely affect cognitive development,
especially in children.
Environmental Impact:
 Air pollution adversely affects ecosystems by contaminating soil and water bodies,
damaging vegetation, and impacting wildlife.
 High concentrations of SO2 and NO can lead to Acid Rain, which has its environmental
impacts.
 Some air pollutants, such as greenhouse gases (e.g., carbon dioxide and methane),
contribute to global warming and climate change by trapping heat in the Earth’s
atmosphere.
Economic Impacts:
 Air pollution can have significant economic costs, including increased healthcare
expenditures, reduced productivity, and property damage.
 Air pollution reduces agricultural productivity by damaging the soil.
 Acid rain can damage forests, lakes, and buildings.
Preventive Measures:
 Cleaner fuels, such as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), are cheaper and more
environmentally friendly for power plants.
 Hydrogen fuel and e-vehicles should be promoted to control air pollution.
 Environment-friendly industrial processes should be encouraged to minimize the
emission of pollutants and hazardous wastes.
 Increasing the height of chimneys, closing hazardous industries, shifting polluting
industries away from cities, and developing and maintaining green belts of adequate
width can significantly reduce air pollution.
 Setting up emission standards for automobiles has already improved vehicular emissions.
Further research and technological innovation will greatly reduce air pollution.
  In bigger cities like Delhi and Mumbai, motor vehicles need to obtain Pollution under
Control (PUC) Certificate at regular intervals. This ensures that levels of pollutants
emitted from vehicle exhaust are always within the prescribed legal limits.
 Alternate fuels like CNG are being encouraged for use in public transport vehicles.

2. Water Pollution:
Water Pollution is the contamination of water bodies such as lakes, rivers, streams, or
marine environments caused by toxic substances discharged directly or indirectly into them
without adequate treatment to remove harmful compounds.
This spells disaster for aquatic ecosystems, and the pollutants also seep through and reach
the groundwater, which might end up in our households as water used in daily activities.
The contaminating substances that cause water pollution are called Water Pollutants (effluent
discharge, solid waste, etc.)
Water Pollution is one of the prominent types of Environmental Pollution.
Two types of pollutions:
Point source of pollution: This source of pollution can be readily identified because it has a
definite source and place, where it enters the water. Eg: Municipal industrial discharges pipes.
Non point source of pollution: when a source of pollution cannot be readily identified such as
agricultural run off, acid rain etc, it is called as non point source of pollution.

Sources of Water Pollution:

1. Urban runoff of untreated or poorly treated waste water storage and garbage
2. Industrial waste storage located above or near aquifer
3. Agricultural practices such as application of large amounts of fertilizers and pesticides, animal
feeding operations etc in rural sector
4. Leaks from underground storage tanks containing gasoline and other hazardous substances
5. Leachate from land fills
6. Poorly designed and inadequately maintained septic tanks
7. Mining waters
Causes of water pollution: (surface water)
Disease causing agents parasitic worms, bacteria, viruses, protozoa that enter water from
domestic sewage and untreated human and animal wastes.
Oxygen depleting wastes: These are organic wastes that can be decomposed by aerobic
bacteria. The amount of oxygen required to break down a certain amount of organic matter is
called BOD. It is an indicator of level of pollution.
Inorganic plant nutrients: There are water soluble nitrates and phosphates.
Excess pesticides: For control of pest pesticides are used in discriminately. These fall on
ground and leach with rain water to canals and rivers.
Water soluble organic chemicals: These are acids, salts and compounds of toxic metals such
as mercury & lead.
Variety of organic chemicals: includes oil, gasoline, plastics, pesticides, detergents & many
other chemicals.
The sediments of suspended matter: Occur when soil is eroded.
Water soluble radioactive isotopes: Enter the water courses along with rain water.
Hot water released by power plants & industries that use large volume of water to cool the
plant results in a rise in temp of local water bodies.
into rivers.

Ground water pollution: A greater threat to human life comes from ground water which is used
for drinking and irrigation being polluted.
Effects of Water pollution:
1. Large amount of human waste in water increase the number of bacteria such as Escherichia
coli and streptococcus sps which cause gastro intestinal diseases. Water borne diseases diarrhea,
typhoid etc.
2. If more organic matter is added to water the O2 is used up. This causes fish and other forms of
O2 dependent aquatic life dies.
3. Eutrophication due to inorganic pollutants.
4. Excess pesticides cause Biomagnification.
5. High levels of organic chemicals (acids, salts& toxic metals) can make the water unfit to
drink, harm fish and other aquatic life, reduce crop yields
6. Variety of organic chemicals / oil gasoline, plastics detergents) are harmful to aquatic life and
human life
7. Sediments (erosion) fish, clog the lakes and artificial reservoirs
8. Radioisotopes cause birth defects, cancer and genetic damage. Hot water cause thermal
pollution not only decrease the solubility of O2 but also changes the breeding cycles of various
aquatic organisms
9. Hot water because of thermal pollution not only decrease the solubility of O2 but also changes
the breeding cycles of various aquatic organisms.
10. Accidental oil spills cause environmental damage.
11. Minamata disease is caused due to mercury poisoning of water.
12. Fluorine contamination in drinking water causes Fluorosis, NO3 contamination causes Blue
baby disease (Methaemoglobinaceae) and PO4 contamination causes bone marrow disease.
13. Arsenic poisoning is the major effect mostly in West Bengal. Arsenicosis or arsenic toxicity
develops after 2-5 years exposure to arsenic contaminated drinking water.

Control measures of water pollution:

recipient water. The treated effluent can be reused either for gardening or cooling purposes or
wherever possible.
Thermax by running contaminated water through the
root zone of specially designed reed beds. These have the capacity to absorb from the
surrounding air through their stomata openings. It creates O2 rich conditions where bacteria and
fungi oxidize the wastes.

reduce the effects caused due to excess pesticides.

Treatment of Polluted Water:
Treatment of Polluted Water involves the following three processes
1. Primary Treatment:
It involves physical processes such as separating large debris, sedimentation in tanks, etc.
2. Secondary Treatment:
It involves biological processes, which are carried out by microorganisms. In this process,
microbes oxidize the organic matter present in the polluted water.
3. Tertiary Treatment:
It involves physico-chemical processes that remove turbidity in water caused by the presence of
nutrients, organic matter, metal, or pathogens. The usual method in this process includes – the
chemical oxidation of water by strong oxidizing agents like Chlorine Gas, Perchlorate Salts, O3,
and UV Radiation.
 Measures to tackle water pollution:
1. Strengthening Environmental Regulations
2. Monitoring and Compliance
3. Waste water Treatment
4. Use of Biotechnology
5. Sustainable Agriculture Practices
6. Industrial Pollution Control
7. Solid Waste Management
8. Public awareness and education:

Dissolved Oxygen (DO):- It is the amount of Oxygen gas dissolved in a liquid, such as water. It
is an essential component for aquatic life, as it is required for the respiration of fish, plants, and
other organisms.
The higher the water temperature, the lower the rate of O2 dissolution. Thus, the discharge of hot
wastewater lowers the Dissolved Oxygen (DO) level.
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD):- it refers to the amount of O2 required by aerobic
decomposers for the biochemical degradation of biodegradable organic materials in water. The
higher the BOD, the lower the DO level.
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD):- it refers to the amount of Oxygen equivalent to the
requirement for oxidation of total organic matter (biodegradable and non-biodegradable) present
in water. The higher the COD, the lower the DO level.
3. Soil Pollution
 Soil Pollution refers to soil contamination with harmful substances, including heavy
metals, pesticides, and industrial waste.
 Major sources of soil pollution include-the deposition of hazardous chemicals, heavy
metals, and waste on land.
 Key factors are agricultural practices involving excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers,
industrial waste dumping, and improper disposal of solid waste, which also causes
environmental pollution.
 Soil pollution reduces soil fertility, contaminates crops, and affects food security.
Causes of Soil Pollution:
1. Natural Causes and
2. Anthropogenic Causes.
Natural Causes:
There are various contaminants (compounds) naturally present in the soil. In addition, various
compounds get into the soil from the atmosphere through water precipitation, wind activity,
water runoff, etc. When the amounts of soil contaminants exceed natural levels, it leads to soil
pollution.
A few natural processes leading to soil pollution are:
Natural accumulation of compounds in soil due to imbalances between atmospheric deposition
and leaking away with precipitation water. Natural production in soil under certain
environmental conditions. Acid Rain and other polluted water could dissolve away some of the
important nutrients found in soil and change the structure of the soil. The soil also receives toxic
chemicals during the weathering of certain rocks. Natural disasters like floods, tsunamis, storm
surges, etc.
Sources of Soil Pollution :
 Soil pollution arises from various sources, primarily due to human activities. Industrial
waste is a major contributor, as factories directly discharge toxic chemicals and heavy metals
into the soil.
 Agricultural practices also play a significant role, with the overuse of chemical fertilizers,
pesticides, and herbicides contaminating the soil over time.
 Improper waste disposal, including plastic, electronic, and hazardous waste, leads to harmful
substances leaching the ground.
 Mining activities disturb the soil and release toxic materials, while oil spills from
transportation and drilling operations add further pollutants.
 Additionally, urbanization and deforestation contribute to the degradation of soil quality,
altering its structure and composition.
 All of these factors combine to disrupt soil health and its ability
Effects of Soil Pollution :
Effects on Health: Plants grown in polluted soil absorb much of the pollution and then pass it on
to consumers. This leads to multiple health effects, such as:
 Effect on the genetic makeup of the body causing congenital illnesses and chronic health
issues that cannot be cured easily.
 It can sicken the livestock to a considerable extent and cause food poisoning over a long
period of time.
 The emission of toxic and foul gases from landfills pollutes the environment and causes
serious effects on the health of some people.
 Soil pollution can even lead to widespread famines if the plants cannot grow in it.
Effects on Plant Growth: The ecological balance of any system is affected by widespread soil
contamination. This impacts the plant growth in the following ways:
• Most plants are unable to adapt when the soil chemistry changes radically in a short
period of time.
• Fungi and bacteria found in the soil that bind it together begin to decline, which creates
an additional problem of soil erosion.
• The fertility slowly diminishes, making land unsuitable for agriculture and any local
vegetation to survive.
• Soil pollution makes large tracts of land hazardous to health. Unlike deserts, suitable for
their native vegetation, such land cannot support most life forms.
Effects on Soil Fertility: Toxic chemicals in the soil can decrease soil fertility and, therefore,
soil yield.
Effects on Soil Structure: The death of many soil organisms (e.g., earthworms) can alter soil
structure.
Prevention of Soil Pollution
Proper Dumping of Unwanted Materials: Waste, if not disposed of well, can create problems
for the environment, so it is a must to manage human and animal waste well. Nowadays, the
control tipping method is used to manage solid waste, and the surface is then used for
constructing houses or sports grounds.
Production of Natural Fertilizers: Instead of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, use bio-
pesticides and organic fertilizers.
Control of Soil Erosion: Soil erosion should be controlled through measures like afforestation
and a variety of forestry and farm practices, like covering barren slopes by planting trees,
contour cultivation, and strip farming instead of shifting cultivation.
Public Awareness: Formal or informal public awareness campaigns should be executed to
increase awareness about the harmful effects of soil pollution and measures to be taken to control
it.
Proper Hygienic Conditions: People should be trained to follow proper sanitation habits instead
of open defection and throwing human and animal waste in the open.
Recycling and Reuse of Waste: Reusing paper, plastics, glasses, organics, and petroleum
products can help control soil pollution.
Ban on Toxic Chemicals: The use of harsh chemicals like DDT, BHC, etc., which have harmful
impacts on animals and plants, should be banned.
4. Noise Pollution (Sound Pollution) :
According to the Indian Government, sound levels above 50 dB and 40 dB during the day and
night are considered Noise Pollution.
Any sound that creates discomfort to the recipient is termed Noise.
Noise as a potent menace is measured in terms of decibels (dB). However, the health hazard is a
matter of Perceived Noise level in decibels (PNdB).
WHO (World Health Organization) has prescribed an optimum noise level of 45 dB during the
day and 35 dB at night. above 80 dB is hazardous.
Noise intensity in some of the common activities
Source Intensity
Breathing 10 dB
Winds of trees 20 dB
Quiet Conversation 20-30 dB
Radio Music 50-60 dB
Loud Conversation 60 dB
Traffic Noise 60-90 dB
Vacuum Cleaner 80 dB
Aircraft Noise 90-120 dB
Motor Cycle 105 dB
Thunder Storm 110 dB
Jet Engine 140 dB
Space Vehicle Launch 140-170 dB
Sources of Noise Pollution
All human activities contribute to noise pollution to varying extent.
Noise pollution is more common in urban areas due to a higher concentration of population,
industries, and activities such as transportation.
Like other pollutants, noise is a by-product of industrialization, urbanization and modern
civilization.
Variety of sources of noise pollution can be categorized into two types – Indoor Sources and
Outdoor Sources.
Indoor Sources:
The noise produced by radio, television, generators, electric fans, air coolers, air conditioners,
different home appliances, family conflicts, etc, makes up indoor sources of noise pollution.
Outdoor Sources:
Indiscriminate use of loudspeakers, industrial activities, automobiles, traffic, aeroplanes and
activities such as those during religious, social and cultural functions.
In rural areas, farm machines and pump sets are the main sources of noise pollution. During
festivals, marriages and many other occasions, the use of firecrackers contributes to noise
pollution.
Noise can also arise from natural sources like thunder.
Causes of Noise Pollution:
Urbanization and industrialization are major contributors to traffic noise, including cars,
buses, trains, and aeroplanes, creating constant background noise in cities.
Construction activities, such as drilling, hammering, and heavy machinery use, also add to the
noise levels.
Industrial operations, especially in factories and power plants, produce high-decibel sounds
that can harm nearby communities.
Household appliances like washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and music systems contribute
to indoor noise pollution.
Additionally, public events, loudspeakers, and social gatherings increase noise pollution in both
urban and rural settings.
Lastly, natural events like thunderstorms or volcanic eruptions, though less frequent, also
contribute to noise pollution.
Effects of Noise Pollution
People exposed to noise levels reaching 110 dB may experience mental trauma, physical fatigue,
deafness, hypertension and insomnia.
Prolonged exposure to noise for a day alone may lead to severe mental disorientation and, in a
few cases, result in violent behavior.
If noise exposure is not controlled, it may lead to permanent loss of hearing, miscarriage in
pregnant ladies and coronary heart diseases.
Measures to Control Noise Pollution
 TVs, radio and other electronic gadgets should not be played at a high volume.
 Restricting the use of loudspeakers and amplifiers. e.g, several states have protocols for
maximum sound limits during the night time.
 The use of firecrackers, which are noisy and cause air pollution, should be restricted.
 Green belts are created through the plantation of trees along highways.
 Proper lubrication and timely maintenance of industrial machines and transport vehicles.
 Innovative designs and adequate maintenance of vehicles.
 Acoustic materials that can absorb sound energy can be used to interrupt the path of
sound.
 Creating noise mounds, noise attenuation walls, well-maintained roads and smooth
surfacing of roads can ensure noise abatement.
 Retrofitting locomotives, continuously welded rail tracks, the use of electric locomotives,
or the deployment of quieter rolling stock will reduce train noises.
Appropriate insulation and introduction of noise regulations for take-off and landing of aircraft
5. Thermal Pollution
Thermal pollution is defined as a sudden increase or decrease in the temperature of a natural
body of water, which may be ocean, lake, river or pond. e.g. a power plant takes water from a
source, e.g., a river, as a coolant and then discharges the warm water back into the water body.
Causes of Thermal Pollution:
Power, Manufacturing and Industrial Plants: These plants draw water from nearby sources as
a coolant and then release warmer water back to the source.
Soil Erosion: Consistent soil erosion causes water bodies to rise, which makes them more
exposed to sunlight.
Deforestation: Trees and plants prevent sunlight from falling directly on water bodies. With
deforestation, these water bodies are directly exposed to more sunlight, thus absorbing more heat
and raising the temperature of water bodies.
Runoff from Paved Surfaces: During summer seasons, Urban pavement gets quite hot, which
creates warm runoff that gets into the sewer systems and water bodies, increasing their
temperature.
Natural Causes: Volcanoes and geothermal activity beneath the oceans and seas can release
warm lava to raise the temperature of water bodies. Lightning is another natural cause that can
introduce heat into the oceans.
Effects of Thermal Pollution
Decrease in Dissolved Oxygen Levels: The warm temperature decreases the levels of DO
(Dissolved Oxygen) in water.
The decrease in oxygen may give rise to anaerobic conditions by suffocating plants and animals.
Growth of Algae: Warmer water allows algae to flourish on surface of water and over the long
term growing algae can decrease oxygen levels in the water.
Surge in Toxins: Constant flow of high-temperature water discharge from industries leads to an
increase in toxins in the natural water body.
These toxins may contain chemicals or radiation that may have a harmful impact on aquatic
organisms.
Biodiversity Loss: Changes in the temperature of water bodies may lead to migration to more
adaptable surrounding leading to more clash for limited resources leading to death of many
organisms.
Ecological Impact: A sudden thermal shock can result in mass killings of organisms. Little
increase in water temperature may increase activity level of some organisms while higher
increase in water temperature may decrease the activity level of some.
Reproductive Systems: As reproduction better happens within a certain range of temperature.
Higher temperature can cause release of immature eggs or can prevent normal development of
certain eggs.
Metabolic Rate: Thermal pollution increases the metabolic rate of organisms. It may also
disrupt the stability of the food chain and change the composition of species.
Thermal Pollution Control Measures
 Storing hot water in cooling ponds and allowing the water to cool before releasing it into any
water body or back to the plant.
 Warm effluents can be passed through a cooling tower after it leaves the condenser. The heat
is dissipated into the air and the water can then be discharged into the river or pumped back to
the plant to be reused for cooling.
 Create storm water management facilities to absorb runoff or direct it into groundwater, such
as infiltration basins and bio-retention systems.
 Dams can be designed such that instead of releasing cold water at the bottom of the reservoir,
they release water from the top.

6. Marine Pollution:
Marine pollution can be defined as the introduction of substances directly or indirectly by
humans into the marine environment, resulting in adverse effects such as hazards to human
health, obstruction of marine activities, and lowering the quality of seawater.
As human activities continue to expand and intensify, the pressures on our marine ecosystems
are mounting. The enormous dumping of pollutants into the ocean adversely affects the marine
environment and areas along the coasts, such as estuaries, reefs, wetlands, mangroves, etc.
Types of Marine Pollution
Marine pollution refers to the contamination of oceans and seas by harmful substances and
activities.
Oil spills are one of the most visible types, causing catastrophic damage to marine life and
ecosystems.
Plastic pollution is another growing concern, with large amounts of plastic waste entering
oceans, affecting marine animals and seabirds.
 Chemical pollution, including fertilizers, pesticides, and heavy metals from industrial runoff,
leads to toxic environments and dead zones where marine life struggles to survive.
Sewage and waste disposal contribute to nutrient loading, causing harmful algal blooms and
oxygen depletion.
Additionally, noise pollution from shipping, sonar, and drilling affects marine species’
communication and navigation, while thermal pollution from industrial plants disrupts marine
ecosystems by altering water temperatures.
Sources of Marine Pollution:
1. Municipal wastage and sewage
2. Industrial effluents
3. Oil spills from tanker
4. Dumping of radioactive wastage
5. Submarine nuclear technology
6. Offshore drilling and minig
7. Runoff agricultural wastage
Causes of Marine Pollution :
Land-based sources: Runoff from agriculture, industry, and urban areas can carry pollutants
such as pesticides, fertilizers, heavy metals, and sewage into rivers and streams, which ultimately
flow into the ocean.
Maritime activities: Shipping, fishing, and offshore oil and gas operations can release pollutants
such as oil spills, ship waste, and debris into the ocean.
Atmospheric Deposition: Air pollution can travel long distances and eventually be deposited
into the ocean, contributing to marine pollution. This includes marine pollutants such as acid
rain, heavy metals, and plastic micro particles.
Marine Pollution Due to Organic Wastes: Organic waste is a biodegradable material that
includes plant-based or animal-based products.
Impacts of disposal of organic wastes into the marine environment
 It affects the flora and fauna of the marine environment
 Directly or indirectly, it impacts the oxygen concentration thus affecting the quality of the
water. Breaking down of waste by bacterial activity leads to reduction in oxygen
concentration.
 It also leads to end products such as Hydrogen sulphide and ammonia, which are toxic to
many organisms.
 Low oxygen leads to the formation of an anoxic zone from which most life disappears except
for anaerobic bacteria, fungi, yeast and some protozoa, and renders the water foul-smelling.
Oil Spills and Marine Pollution :
 An oil spill is a type of pollution that involves fast and mass-scale oil coming in contact with
open water.
 In this type of marine pollution, liquid petroleum oil is released into the environment, mainly
marine areas, due to human activity.
 Oil spills may happen from releasing crude oil from tankers, offshore platforms, drilling rigs
and wells, and petroleum products from the petroleum refinery.
 Spills may take weeks, months or even years to clean up.
 Being insoluble, oil quickly comes up to the surface and does not directly affect the
underwater, but it has hazardous effects on flora/fauna in the long term.
Control Measures for Oil Spill Disasters
Chemical Methods: The oil spills can be cleaned up by chemical methods. Using sorbents (big
sponges which absorb oil) oil spills can be cleaned. It breaks down oil into its Corresponding
chemical constituents.
Biological Methods: Cleaning of crude oil spills and treatment of oily sludge can be done by bio
remedial methods. ONGC TERI Biotech has developed a technology called Oil zapper, a
cocktail of different bacteria that feed on oil.
Physical Methods: Physical methods like manpower, vacuum trucks, and machines can be used
to suck up spilt oil from the beaches and the surface of the water. Shovels and road machinery
can be used to clean up oil on the beach.
Floating barriers called ‘booms’ can also be used to prevent oil pollution. Already contaminated
sand and gravel can be removed so that they don’t get mixed with ocean waters.
Skimming: As the name suggests, skimming involves the removal of oil spillage with the help of
tools and equipment from the surface of the water. The most important aspect to be noted that
only lighter oils can be separated and removed from the water in this method of cleaning up oil
spills.
Regulatory Measures: The fitness of ships and oil tankers in marine waters should be properly
maintained. Their mechanical parts and equipment need to pass strict quality checks to be proven
safe against any oil spill hazards. Leakages should be fixed before they find a route to the sea
Marine Pollution Control Measures:
 Improvement of the purifying performance of wastewater treatment plants, installing tertiary
treatment systems to reduce nutrient concentrations;
 Implementation of effective filter ecosystems to remove nitrogen and phosphorus present in
the run-off water (such as phyto-purification plants)
 Reduction of phosphorous in detergents
 Rationalization of agricultural techniques through proper planning of fertilization and use of
slow-release fertilizers
 Alternative practices in animal husbandry should be used to limit the production of
wastewater.
 Oxygenation of water to restore the ecological conditions, reducing the negative effects of
the eutrophic process, such as scarcity of oxygen and formation of toxic compounds
deriving from the anaerobic metabolism
 Chemical precipitation of phosphorous by the addition of iron or aluminium salts or calcium
carbonate to the water, which gives rise to the precipitation of the respective iron,
aluminium or calcium orthophosphates, thereby reducing the negative effects related to the
excessive presence of phosphorus in the sediments.

7. Light Pollution:
Light Pollution refers to excessive artificial light that can disrupt ecosystems and
nocturnal activities. Over-illumination in urban areas disrupts natural light cycles, affecting
wildlife and human health. It contributes to energy waste and interferes with astronomical
observations.
Light can be a pollutant.

Components of light pollution include:

Glare — excessive brightness that causes visual discomfort
Sky glow — brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas
Light trespass — light falling where it is not intended or needed
Clutter — bright, confusing, and excessive groupings of light sources
Causes of light pollution:
1. Cities: cities account for most light pollution since they have the most unshielded,
improperly colored lights, sending light upward into the sky rather than downward for
human safety.
2. Outdoor lights: From unshielded pathway lights and streetlights to illuminated signs,
most light at night is wasted, spilling up into the air instead of down at the ground where
it’s needed for safety and way finding.
3. Electronic advertising: Electronic billboards, also known as electronic messaging
centers (EMCs) can be up to ten times brighter at night than traditionally lit billboards.
LEDs from EMCs cannot be shielded, so light is flooded into the night sky.
4. Streetlights: While streetlights can be retrofitted to be dark sky friendly, most cities and
towns haven’t accomplished this yet.
5. Parking lots: Keeping empty parking lots lit all night without timers causes light to be
reflected upward into the sky, not to mention wasting energy.
6. Sports lighting: While nighttime sports offer plenty of valuable benefits to humans,
poorly designed lighting at outdoor sports centers, fields, and stadiums causes increased
light pollution in parts of town that are often adjacent to open space and parks habitat for
our non-human neighbors.
7. Factories and industrial
8. Houses and apartments: