Environmental Pollution: Causes, Impacts and Management Techniques

Environmental pollution refers to the contamination of the natural environment due to the introduction of chemical substances or energy in the form of heat, noise or light. Such chemical and energy species, or pollutants, can be artificially produced or occur in nature. Environmental pollution can be classified as air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, thermal pollution, noise pollution, radioactive contamination, etc. Motor vehicle emissions, nuclear waste disposal activity, petrochemical plants, burning of natural vegetation, use of pesticides and herbicides, nuclear waste disposal activity, etc. are primary causes of environmental pollution. Pollution is harmful to the environment and to humans in several ways. Adverse air and water quality can kill organisms and cause diseases, while mercury ingestion is associated with neurologic symptoms and developmental deficits in children. Through adroit pollution control measures, particularly by adopting the practices of reusing, recycling, composting and minimizing wastes, pollution can be effectively managed. This book covers in detail some existent theories and innovative concepts revolving around environmental pollution. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied causes, impacts and management techniques of environmental pollution. This book is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important field.