How Do People Cause Pollution?
Quick Answer
Humans cause pollution in several ways, including burning fossil fuels, driving cars and trucks, manufacturing, mining and engaging in agricultural activities. Some types of pollution, such as oil spills and mining disasters, produce immediate negative impacts on surrounding environments and ecosystems. Others, such as generating electricity and driving vehicles, produce pollution over longer periods of time.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Pollution stems from many sources and takes various shapes. It exists in air, water and in land. Air pollution derives from toxic emittants, such as fossil fuels escaping into the atmosphere. Air pollution arises from the bio accumulation of certain contaminants in the air. These noxious particles include particulate matter, ozone in the lowest levels of Earth's atmosphere, nitrogen and sulfur oxides and carbon monoxide. These particles reduce air quality in local and regional atmospheres. They also increase local quantities of smog and trap heat, ultimately contributing to global warming.
On land, human sources of pollution include improper removal and disposal of waste from livestock and farming operations. Humans produce light and noise pollution too, which exist primarily in cities and urban centers. Light pollution refers to a high volume of artificial light, such as large lighting fixtures. Noise pollution comes from traffic and man-made structures, such as refineries and production facilities.
Learn more about PollutionRelated Questions
-
Q:
How Is Air Pollution Caused?
A: The leading cause of air pollution is the burning of fossil fuels, but other pollutants, such as pollen, smoke from fires and the gases given off from orga... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are Some Health-Related Disease Pollution Statistics?
A: A study published in 2007 by Cornell University purports air, water and soil pollution cause 40 percent of the world's deaths because this pollution increa... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are Some Solutions to Global Warming?
A: To combat global warming, people must reduce their energy emissions and start using renewable energy resources instead of depleting fossil fuels. Global wa... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Does Pollution Affect Humans?
A: Bethany Wieman of SF Gate Home Guides notes that pollution affects humans and other living things in a number of ways, including an increased risk of asthm... Full Answer >Filed Under:
