Pollution: not just one. The 10 worst
There are ten worst forms of pollution in the world and they all weigh heavily on our health each day. The continual increase in the refuse we produce and the ever-growing need for energy to support the global production system are just two among the causes of the current environmental problems: problems which (in spite of us) involve the spread of extremely dangerous pollutants which we will present below.
1 Oil
The explosion of oil platforms, industrial waste and maritime accidents all result in contaminated waters, causing indiscriminate harm to flora, fauna, the environment and humans. The sea bed is destroyed and animals breathe and swallow toxic substances, while human beings eat harmful food products.
2 Radioactive waste
Radioactive substances released as a bi-product of medical-industrial processes, nuclear power stations, nuclear weapons etc. are capable of contaminating not just our air and water, but also the earth and all its inhabitants. If the affected areas become radioactive, all living organisms there run the risk of lethal illnesses and irreversible physical damage.
3 Urban Pollution
A common problem which affects major cities such as Hong Kong, Los Angeles and Cairo. Tiny dust particles lead to allergies, as well as a series of more serious illnesses involving the respiratory system. Over the years there have been many victims and today, outdoor activity is forbidden in some cities.
4 Mercury
Mercury poisoning is among the categories of pollution which lead to neurological deficit, kidney illness, loss of nails, teeth and hair and muscle weakness. This heavy metal is generally used in coal-fired power stations, in the production of iron, cement and steel and in industrial and agricultural production.
5 Spread of greenhouse gases
Among the most widespread greenhouse gases we can count methane, ozone, water vapour and of course carbon dioxide. The latter has been identified as the main cause of global warming and its effects have resulted in the acidification of the Artic, a reduction in biodiversity and the increase in sea levels. All this has led to a drastic decrease in global water reserves.
6 Pharmaceuticals
A huge number of medicines are prescribed every day both for humans and animals and in the long run enter the human food chain. This un-controlled spread, which also affects water reserves, stimulates the growth of bacteria which are resistant to antibiotics, causing considerable risk to society.
7 Plastics
Today there are two ‘plastic islands’ (one in the Pacific Ocean and the other in the Atlantic Ocean) which together are the size of the Old Continent. All this leads to modifications in endocrine function in humans, increasing the chance of problems such as diabetes and other cardiovascular illnesses.
8 Waste water
In under-developed countries, water purification plants either don’t exist or are very few. This leads to the spread of lethal illnesses such as cholera, typhoid, gastroenteritis and dysentery. Contaminated waters are mixed with toxic substances which cause extensive damage to health.
9 Lead
Lead poisoning happens through inhalation, swallowing or skin contact. With its high level of toxicity, it can damage the heart, the central nervous system, the intestine, bones, the reproductive system and kidneys indiscriminately. Those who come into contact with it have a higher chance of developing cardiovascular illnesses.
10 Substances used in agriculture
Pesticides, fertilisers and other similar chemical compounds penetrate the earth’s layers and reach water channels, thereby putting the population’s water supply at risk. Furthermore, such forms of pollution can be swallowed by people through the consumption of contaminated fruit and vegetables, thereby increasing the risk of illness.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
