Showing posts with label Environmental Pollution. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Environmental Pollution. Show all posts
Air Pollution

Air pollution refers to gasses and pollutants released into the air/atmosphere. Common pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) can cause a number of problems for both the Earth itself (ozone layer depletion and global warming), and for individuals breathing in the polluted air.
Some of the main consequences of air pollution are:
Ozone depletion
Chlorine atoms found in gases such as refrigerants and CFCs destroy ozone molecules in the atmosphere. The Earth's ozone layer acts as a barrier preventing much of the UV radiation from the sun reaching the surface of the planet. The thinner the ozone layer becomes, the more UV radiation is able to penetrate through. This UV radiation can damage the cells of all living things, causing skin cancer and crop failure.
Greenhouse Effect
Whilst too little ozone is a problem, too much of gasses such as carbon dioxide and methane also have negative consequences. Known as greenhouse gasses, they work like a greenhouse by allowing thermal radiation in but keeping the majority of it trapped. This net one way effect causes an increase in temperature. Under stable conditions, the same amount of thermal radiation would be lost as is absorbed, maintaining an equilibrium. But an increase in the layer of these greenhouse gasses will trap more heat in than can escape. The subsequent increase in temperature causes problems such as melting the polar ice caps which raise sea levels and cause flooding to low-lying land, as well as causing more extremes in seasons which threatens wildlife survival and the natural rhythm of life.
Smog
Large cities containing millions of people produce a great quantity of emissions. As well as some being harmful in their own right, these gases can also react with each other to create secondary pollutants and ozone, causing problems for people like skin irritation and respiratory complaints.
Acid Rain
When certain types of gas such as sulphur dioxide or hydrogen chloride are released into the atmosphere, they react with the water to produce acids like sulphuric acid, which falls to the ground as acid rain. Not only does this corrode and damage buildings, it will also harm/kill wildlife and vegetation.
The growing industrialisation of the world's nations has led to an increasing number of factories being built, as well as more power generation facilities that are needed to support them. As well as this, citizens in countries such as China and India are becoming wealthier, allowing many to purchase a car for the first time. The sheer size of their respective populations means that the problem of harmful emissions into the planet's atmosphere is likely to get a great deal worse.
With so many negative consequences, air pollution is a key area to concentrate on when assessing your organisation's environmental impact. Any environmental risk assessment should look at how your operations affect air quality, including any waste material that is disposed of and may give off harmful gases such as rotting waste which can produce methane.
ATC Risk Management are health and safety training providers, offering both accredited and non-accredited safety courses, including environmental courses such as the NEBOSH National Certificate in Environmental Management.


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6:35 PM

Air Pollution

Air pollution refers to gasses and pollutants released into the air/atmosphere. Common pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon mono...
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How Does Pollution Affect the Environment?

With the rapid increase in the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the survival of many living species in our planet has become a major question. Without doubt, we are heading towards disaster if we do not curb the pollution that we have brought about due to technological advancements and other activities that are not environmental friendly.
Environmental pollution includes pollution of soil, water and air by releasing large amount of contaminants due to undesirable human activities. In addition, release of methane as well as volcanic eruptions pollute the environment but the extent is very small compared to the human induced pollution.
Burning fossil fuels releases harmful greenhouse gases and increases the amount of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide in the atmosphere resulting in air pollution. Water is contaminated by sewage discharge, marine transports and releasing industrial wastes into the water bodies resulting in water pollution. Use of synthetic fertilizers pollutes the land by releasing harmful chemicals into the soil resulting in land or soil pollution. Other than these, radiation pollution, noise pollution as well as thermal pollution exist. Radiation pollution is fatal and even gives rise to genetic problems in human beings.
Environmental pollution triggers harmful consequences most of which are linked to each other. For example, air pollution affects our respiratory system which can further lead to heart attacks due to insufficient oxygen supply and improper working of circulatory system. Water pollution can trigger epidemic attacks and affect the quality of sea food. Soil pollution results in harmful chemicals entering the agricultural yields which give rise to stomach disorders when human consume these food products.
Kum Martin is an online leading expert in environmental. He also offers top quality articles like:
Earthquake And Tsunami, Types of Tornadoes.

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6:34 PM

How Does Pollution Affect the Environment?

With the rapid increase in the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the survival of many living species in our planet has bec...
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Environmental Hazards In Africa - Save Our Community of Africa

UNHEALTHY COMMUNITY AND ENVINROMENT: SAVE OUR COMMUNITY AFRICA
Humans have doubtless been altering their local environments since arriving in the scene as a distinct species several hundred thousand years ago. Our debut as major actors on the global stage - actors comparable in influence to the classic roles played by erosion, volcanism, natural selection, and the like- is a much more recent phenomenon. This dates back at most several thousand years, but has accelerated greatly in scope and influence over the last several centuries. According to Crutzen (2002) " We live today in what may be called the "Anthropocene" - a new geologic epoch in which human kind has emerged as a globally significant - and potentially intelligent - force capable of reshaping the face of the planet". The Italian geologist Anthonio Stoppani (1873) was describing humanity's activities as a "new telluric force, which in power and universality may be compared to the greater forces of the Earth". Several international conferences have been held to tackle environmental problems. Examples are, UN conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro Brazil, 1992, World summit on Sustainable Development, held in Johannesburg in 2002, etc. The need for harnessing science and technology in support of efforts to achieve the goal of environmentally sustainable human development in the Anthropocene was generally recognized at the Johannesburg Summit. Environmental hazards are contemporary issue in Africa but before I delve into the causes of the problems and some solutions, I would give some definitions and features of environment. I shall also use Nigeria (an African Country) as a case study because of the limitations of the work.
DEFINITIONS AND FEATURES OF ENVIRONMENT
The unfortunate older, wrong and simplistic definition of environment is that it is the resource that was created for human use. It is that mechanical aspect that exists to serve human beings. This definition is unfortunate and wrong for it explained environment as something inanimate; something in at that exists solely for human recreation pleasures and needs. The background to this definition includes the anthropological, religious, psychological, economic and philosophical explanations of the origin and nature of the environment. Environment is also defined as the natural in which people, animals and plants live. Uchebu (1998) categorized the environment into physical and non-physical. The physical environment includes land (Terrestrial) Air, Water (Acquatic) environments and non-physical - cultural and socio- economic environment. The environment therefore functions according to Kankwenda (2001) as:
(1) A source of raw materials and energy (non - renewable resources);
(2) A provider of services such as maintenance of climatic system/stability and ecological cycle (renewable resources) including forest, agriculture land, water etc;
(3) And a sink for waste.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
Environmental problems are about the central issue of the twentieth and twenty-first (20th -21st ) centuries. This is because the hazards, which are contained in it, are as deep and grave as they are long lasting in its effect to MAN and the eco-system itself. According to the "Awake" magazine, mankind is presently sitting on a time-bomb on account of environmental effects either in form of weaponry and/or pollutions and hazards such as flooding, drought, soil erosion, deforestation, volcanity, earthquakes, radio-chemical hazards etc.
Nigeria as a nation encompasses multiple climate which requires and sraddles various physiographic units. There are various ecological zones ranging from Sahel Savanna, Sudan Savanna and Guinea Savanna through Rain forest to Mangroves and Swamp forests. The various ecological zones respond differently to the impact of human activities by virtue of their natural stress response capabilities and inherent carry capabilities. The Sahelian Savanna is highly susceptible to desertification; the Sudan Savanna can barely cope with human pressures emanating from rapidly growing populations, fuel woods, harvesting and cattle grazing. The Guinea zone is ordinarily subjected to pressures as a natural buffer between the encroaching desert and the forest belt. The Rain forest belt is under excessive pressure through poor regulation and over-exploitation of forest products and other economic activities that result in clearing of vast area of land. Compounding this, especially in the Niger Delta area, is the large scale exploration, exploitation and processing activities by the petroleum industry, which have left their impact through crude oil and petroleum product spillages, gas flaring - related problems, land degradation and depletion of farm lands, water pollution and deterioration of critical habitats for fish stock. Occurrence of soil and gully erosion, especially in the eastern part of Nigeria, flooding in the low lying belt of mangrove and fresh water swamps, and uncontrolled logging with its inherent problems of destruction and loss of bio-diversity have immensely contributed towards further exacerbation of the deteriorating environmental scenario.
The above are the various causes and effects of environmental hazards in Nigeria. But there are major noticeable changes in the environment as a result of human pressure on it. These include viz
(1) Loss of biodiversity resulting in reduced variety of genetic strains, species and ecosystems, depletion and extinction of species etc.
(2) Increasing rate of soil degradation and desertification as well as air and water pollution.
(3) Increase in green houses gases that are expected to lead to an increase in the mean global temperature of 200 to 500C.(Global Warming)
(4) Massive release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) into the stratosphere resulting in increasing ultraviolet radiation from the sun due to depletion of ozone layer
PROGNOSIS FOR THE FUTURE
The prognosis for continued and sustainable improvements in human well being on a transformed environment is, at best, guarded. The two broad causes of environmental hazards are the industrially caused environmental pollution and the wasteful private consumption by whole population living under modern urban conditions. Whereas the former evil is done by a very limited number of humanity, the latter is perpetrated by the whole humanity whose greed has been fired by advertising following the industrial age to want to have more and more things and wastes the resources of nature. Consequently, while political regulations, laws, civil movements/pressure groups can force industries to safeguard the environment. Such coercive and institutional measures cannot work for the pollution by the whole citizenry. Rather a change of attitude and action towards environmental sustainability would be based on the voluntary action of individuals. Because whatever affects and pollutes the environment is also of effect to us. I therefore canvass for an approach or relation between man and environment called "Ecocentrism". The spirit behind this approach is to posit that environment is actually animate in the sense of being alive. It is therefore wrong to interpret environment as inert or inanimate.
Thus, the practical way forward for man to check environmental pollution and hazards according to Chigbo Joseph are viz
- Limit consumption of resources to a minimum and devise ways to use waste products in production.
- Making maximum use of the physical energy of the human body in order to maintain greater human health.
- Caution on use of the artificials additives to foods and other chemical products and be aware that harm almost invariably accompanies whatever good these substances do.
- Scientists and technologists to be ethically/humbly centered in their research and production
- Leaders to be imbued with the consciousness of saving man and the planet earth in their decisions.
In addition to the above, there should be establishment of regulatory agencies with varying powers to monitor and effectively control the sources of pollutants. Example is FEPA - Federal Environmental Protection Agency/Federal Ministry of Environment.
In a nutshell, the environment is a complex and delicate system which (I) if properly managed it can be geared to productive and domestic aesthetic and even spiritual requirements (ii) when poorly managed, the environment could easily become hazardous and threatening to human survival.
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6:32 PM

Environmental Hazards In Africa - Save Our Community of Africa

UNHEALTHY COMMUNITY AND ENVINROMENT: SAVE OUR COMMUNITY AFRICA Humans have doubtless been altering their local environments since arr...
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Dioxin - A Toxic Environmental Pollutant

Dioxin is a hazardous chemical that has its origins in chlorine and detergent production. Over the decades, it has accumulated in the environment leading to toxic levels. It is dangerous to health, as it affects a number of the human organs and body systems. Once these poisons are inhaled or absorbed by the body, they stay there a long time because it is absorbed by the fat tissues and stored in the body. Due to the stability of the chemical compound, it can stay in the body for more than a decade!
There is growing global concern as dioxins tend to accumulate in the food chain. As humans are arguably the highest in the food chain, the dioxins accumulated and consumed by humans is also in the highest concentrations.
Reports released by the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that exposure of humans to high levels of dioxins may result in skin lesions, such as chloracne and patchy darkening of the skin, and altered liver function.
Pregnant mothers must take exceptional care to avoid coming in contact with this toxin, whether through inhalation, consumption or touching contaminated surfaces, as it can affect the fetus inside the womb, causing disabilities, mutations or stunting growth. Newborn babies are also particularly vulnerable to this chemical contamination, as their immune systems have not been fully developed.
Low levels of dioxins in the air in the indoor environment, such as the home and office, can be eliminated in a simple step by way of using indoor air purifiers with a carbon filter and certified by the AHAM (Association of American Home Appliances Manufacturers).
Get your FREE Report on the "7 Deadly Invisible Killers in Your Home", and find out how a good indoor air purifier can destroy deadly viruses (including H1N1), bacteria and clean other harmful pollutants and chemicals (such as dioxin) in your home and workplace that can cause diseases.  Dr. Sloan, MD., is an experienced and qualified practicing medical doctor with a passion for the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of illnesses and diseases..

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6:29 PM

Dioxin - A Toxic Environmental Pollutant

Dioxin is a hazardous chemical that has its origins in chlorine and detergent production. Over the decades, it has accumulated in the...
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Combating Environmental Pollution With Herbal Detoxification

Environmental pollution is a technological miscreation of the twentieth century that threatens to victimize us well into the new millennium. These synthetic invaders can endanger our immediate health or have a cumulative effect that can compromise our future well being. Air, soil, and water have been transformed by the industrial age, into a toxic soup that challenges the health and survival of individuals and society.
Air, the most ubiquitous of our elements, is replete with carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and black carbon particles from the burning of fossil fuels. The chlorofluorocarbons produced by refrigerants and aerosols deplete the ozone layer while, in some areas, radioactive particles such as strontium 90 float freely in the atmosphere. Indoors we are surrounded by carcinogens inherent in carpeting, building supplies, cleaning agents and cigarette smoke. Health tolls run the gamut from the mundane aggravations of headache, and allergies to the life threatening consequences of asthma, skin and lung cancer.
The purity of water, our most vital resource, is often in question. Sewage, agricultural and industrial waste in the form of nitrates, phosphates, PCBs, heavy metals and a host of other contaminates make a witch's brew of our aquifers, lakes and rivers. Life- giving water becomes a vehicle for chemicals which can be implicated in free radical formation, fatigue, anemia, and learning disabilities.
The agricultural industry treats the soil with toxic and often carcinogenic nitrogen containing fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, increasing yield, quantity, at the expense of quality.
Before food stuffs reach our table there is further insult with the addition of artificial sweeteners, flavorings, preservatives and colorings. This chemical stew promotes food allergies, digestive problems, neurological problems and cancer.
Faced with such obstacle to our well being detoxification becomes essential to keeping our bodies functioning properly. Detoxification supports the liver, skin, kidneys, and large intestine in their efforts to neutralize and clear the inherent by products of metabolism and the environmental poisons we are exposed to.
No matter what the portal of entry, toxins ensconce themselves in the blood stream .The liver, the key player in detoxification, filters the blood of all waste products and secrets enzymes to neutralize and disassemble undesirable chemicals. The liver will then manufacture and secret bile which will travel with its load of fat soluble toxins to the large intestines for excretion. Herbal preparations containing milk thistle, licorice root, and dandelion root strengthen and support the liver. Silymarin, a flavonoid in milk thistle, acts as an antioxidant to protect the liver and support the detoxification process. Licorice root, with glycyrrhizin as the active component, is a great detoxifying herb promoting liver health and enhancing the flow of bile. Dandelion root, a cholagogue, encourages bile production and prevents liver congestion.
Sweat, from the sebaceous glands, brings toxins to the surface to be excreted via our largest gland, the skin. Burdock root, yarrow and cayenne are excellent diaphoretics catalyzing this aspect of purification.
Diuretic herbs such as uva ursi leaf, buchu leaf and juniper berry act directly on the kidneys to stimulate urine formation and excretion. Herbal support for the kidneys will help this organ filter vast amounts of water soluble toxins from our system.
The anthraquinones in buckthorn bark and cascara sagrada ensure the health of the large intestine by enhancing peristalsis and mucous secretion. These herb's laxative or purgative effects keep solid waste from building up in the colon.
These herbs are not exclusive in their action for they all have cross over properties which act in harmony to maintain homeostasis. A balanced, organic diet, adequate water intake, exercise and supplementation of vitamins and minerals lost during detox will lead to a resilient body able to withstand the onslaught of environmental pollution.
Herbal Tea for Detoxification
Diuretic, Laxative, Alterative
Ingredients- dried herbs:
Licorice Root...................................... 2 grams
Burdock Root .................................... 2grams
Red Clover Blossom.............................. 1gram
Cascara Sagrada Bark................................... 1 gram
Materials:
Coffee grinder
Soft water, distilled water or rain water
Metric scale
Infusion mug- glass, earthenware or porcelain.
Method of Preparation and Dosage:
This method of hot infusion will provide a single dose (1 cup) of hot herbal tea. Measure out the required amount of herbs and powder using grinder. Place herbs in the upper portion of your infusion mug. Pour one cup (250ml) of boiling water into the mug and allow the herbs to steep covered for at least 10- 15 minutes. Drink warm. Organic honey may be added to sweeten. The infusion should be taken 3 times per day, for approximately 4 to 5 days or until detoxification process is thought to be complete. Repeat as necessary. Adequate water intake and supplementation with vitamins and minerals, especially potassium, is necessary.
References
Green, James (2000). The Herbal Medicine Maker's Handbook.
Berkeley: The Crossing Press.
Hass, Elson M. (1992). Staying Healthy With Nutrition.
Berkeley: Celestial Arts Publishing.
Mowrey, PH.D., Daniel B. (1986). The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine.
Lincolnwood: Keats Press.
Murray, N.D., Michael, Pizzorono, N.D., Joseph (1998).Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine
(2nd ed.). New York: Three Rivers Press


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6:27 PM

Combating Environmental Pollution With Herbal Detoxification

Environmental pollution is a technological miscreation of the twentieth century that threatens to victimize us well into the new mille...
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