Air pollution is caused by exhaust from vehicles and factories and from the burning of waste such as plastics. It causes breathing problems, aggravates asthma and increases the risk of lung cancer. It also contributes to global warming and climate change. Water pollution is when chemicals and waste, such as hydrocarbons, heavy metals, MTBE, herbicides and pesticides are dumped into rivers and oceans. It changes the quality of water and harms marine life. Land pollution is when pollutants are absorbed by soil. It can include organic and inorganic chemicals, wastes and hazardous micro-organisms.
People react differently to pollution, with the elderly, young children and those suffering from comorbidities more susceptible to its effects. Genetics and nutrition may also impact a person’s susceptibility to pollution. In addition, the length and amount of exposure to pollution impacts a person’s health.
Pollution is a global problem that affects all living things. It ruins ecosystems, interferes with natural processes and leads to loss of biodiversity. It also hurts economic growth and undermines sustainable development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and communities. The most vulnerable suffer the most, with poor people who cannot afford to protect themselves from pollution being the hardest hit. This disproportionately affects women, children and indigenous people. It also undermines the UN Sustainable Development Goals to leave no one behind and reduces opportunity and prosperity for all. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and prevent pollution on your property. For example, you can look for signs of pollution in your soil by testing its quality and monitoring bodies of water on your property. You should keep an eye out for discoloration and odors, the appearance of unfamiliar plants or animals, or reduced wildlife activity.