Summary A Comprehensive Guide to Water Pollution World Wide
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Course
University of Malakand
Institution
University Of Malakand
Water pollution is a global environmental problem characterized by the contamination of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater due to the introduction of harmful substances. This contamination stems from various sources, including industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, sew...
Water pollution is a significant environmental issue that affects
bodies of water worldwide. It occurs when harmful substances and
contaminants are introduced into water sources, leading to adverse
effects on aquatic life, ecosystems, and human health. Some of the
major sources of water pollution in the world include:
1. Industrial Discharges: Industries release a variety of pollutants
into water bodies, including chemicals, heavy metals, and organic
compounds. These discharges may come from factories,
manufacturing plants, and processing facilities.
2. Agricultural Runoff: Excessive use of fertilizers, pesticides, and
herbicides in agriculture can lead to runoff, which carries these
chemicals into rivers, lakes, and groundwater, causing water
pollution.
3. Sewage and Wastewater: Improperly treated or untreated
sewage and wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial
areas are significant contributors to water pollution.
4. Oil Spills: Accidental or intentional releases of oil from ships,
offshore drilling rigs, or pipelines can result in massive oil spills,
devastating marine ecosystems and coastal areas.
5. Mining Activities: Mining operations release harmful substances
such as heavy metals, acids, and other toxic chemicals into nearby
water bodies, contaminating them.
6. Improper Waste Disposal: Dumping of solid waste, including
plastic and other non-biodegradable materials, into rivers and
oceans leads to pollution and marine debris.
7. Atmospheric Deposition: Air pollution can contribute to water
pollution when airborne pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and
sulfur dioxide, are deposited into water bodies through rain or snow
(acid rain).
8. Deforestation and Soil Erosion: Loss of vegetation due to
deforestation and improper land use practices can lead to soil
erosion, which carries sediment and pollutants into water sources.
9. Urban Runoff: Rainwater washes pollutants such as oil, heavy
metals, and debris from urban areas into stormwater drains and
ultimately into rivers and oceans.
10. Agricultural Livestock Operations: Large-scale animal
farms can produce significant amounts of manure and other waste
that may leach into nearby water sources.
11. Global Warming and Climate Change: Rising temperatures
and changing weather patterns can impact water quality through
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