Types of Environmental Pollution
Environmental pollution can be categorised into several types based on the
nature of the pollutants and the media they affect.
Some of the major types of environmental pollution are described below.
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.
Read our detailed article on Air Pollution.
Water Pollution
Water Pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies such as rivers, lakes,
and oceans with pollutants such as industrial effluents, sewage, agricultural
runoff, and oil spills.
Water Pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged into water bodies, leading
to water quality degradation.
Industrial effluents, agricultural run-off, and domestic sewage contribute to
Water Pollution.
Contaminated water affects aquatic life, disrupts ecosystems, and poses serious
health risks to humans.
Read our detailed article on Water Pollution.
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
fertilisers, 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.
Read our detailed article on Soil Pollution.
Noise Pollution
Noise Pollution refers to excessive noise that can adversely affect human health
and wildlife.
Significant contributors to noise pollution include noise from industrial activities,
traffic, construction, and urbanisation.
Chronic exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing loss, stress, and other
health issues, which in turn can lead to environmental pollution.
