current environmental issues and their managemnet startegies.pptx

this gives a detailed information about the current environmental issues

1. UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, BANGALORE CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES PRESENTED BY AISWARYA SV PAMB 3051 Department Of Microbiology

2. Environmental pollution Types of pollution What causes environmental pollution Land pollution Noise pollution Thermal pollution Plastic pollution Light pollution Air pollution Water pollution Acts related to environmental protection Agricultural residues Problems and causes of agricultural residues Mitigation strategies Conclusion FLOW OF PRESENTATION

3. TYPES OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

4. Environmental pollution can be defined as any undesirable change in physical, chemical or biological characteristics of any component in the environment i.e. air, water, soil which can cause harmful effects on various forms of life or property. Pollution: It is the effect of undesirable changes in our surroundings that have harmful effects on plants, animals and human beings. Pollutant : Any thing (solid, liquid or gas) that cause pollution is called pollutant. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

5. TYPES OF POLLUTION

6. OTHER TYPES OF POLLUTION THERMAL POLLUTION PLASTIC POLLUTION LIGHT POLLUTION

7. WHAT CAUSES ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION? Population growth Nature of Modern Technology Deforestation Agricultural Development Industrial Development Unplanned Urbanization Coal burnt Thermal Power Plants Poverty

8. Recent statistical report Approximately 30% of India's geographical area was under degradation as of 2019, with agricultural land and forests the most common types of land degradation. 13 of India's states > 30% of their land under degradation. Delhi ranked 3 rd in the country, with nearly 62% of its total land degraded Definition Land pollution is the demolition of Earth's land surfaces often caused by human activities and their misuse of land resources. It occurs when waste is not disposed properly. LAND POLLUTION Causes of land pollution Construction Agriculture Domestic waste Industrial Waste Effects Loss of soil nutrients, which renders the soil unfit for agriculture Impacts the natural flora and fauna residing in the soil Degrades vegetation due to the increase of salinity of the soil Toxic dust (such as silica dust) can cause respiratory problems or even lung cancer.

9. LAND POLLUTION (Cont.) Source : https://www.statista.com/statistics/1426607/india-land-degradation-by-state/

10. Cause of noise pollution Transportation systems Construction of buildings, highways, and streets cause a lot of noise. Industrial noise Loud speakers, plumbing, boilers and generators add to the existing noise pollution. Effects Hearing loss Tinnitus Sleeping disorders Hypertension (high BP) Communication problems Definition Noise pollution is excessive, displeasing human, animal, or machine-created environmental noise that disrupts the activity or balance of human or animal life. Sounds with a frequency over 70 db. are considered harmful to health. NOISE POLLUTION

11. NOISE POLLUTION (Cont.)

12. THERMAL POLLUTION Effects Elevated temperature typically decreases the level of dissolved oxygen of water. Increases the metabolic rate of aquatic animals. High temperature limits oxygen dispersion into deeper waters, contributing to anaerobic conditions. Primary producers are affected by warmwater because higher water temperature increases plant growth rates, resulting in a shorter lifespan and species overpopulation. Definition Thermal Pollution is the harmful increase in water temperature in streams, rivers, lakes, or occasionally, coastal ocean waters. It is the degradation of water quality by any process that changes ambient water temperature. Causes Nuclear power plant Industrial effluents Domestic sewage Hydro-electric power Coal fired power plants Thermal shock

13. Statistical report India generates 3.5 million tonnes plastic waste annually. Recycles only 30% of 3.5 MT plastic waste generated. Definition Is the accumulation of plastic objects in the Earth’s environment that adversely affects wildlife, wildlife habitat and humans. Causes Improper disposal of garbage Overuse of plastic Urbanization and population growth Industry Burning of plastic Effects Marine pollution Intoxicated drinking water Floods Land pollution PLASTIC POLLUTION

14. Definition Light pollution, also known as photo pollution or luminous pollution, is excessive or obtrusive artificial light. Causes Light Trespass : occurs when unwanted light enters one's property, for instance, by shining over a neighbor's fence. Over-illumination : is the excessive use of light. Over-illumination is responsible for approximately two million barrels of oil per day in energy wasted. Glare : is difficulty seeing in the presence of bright light such as direct or reflected sunlight or artificial light such as car headlamps at night. Effects Effect on Human Health & Psychology: Increased headache incidence, worker fatigue, medically defined stress. Disruption of Eco Systems : Poses a serious threat in particular to nocturnal wildlife Having negative impacts on plant and animal physiology Effects on Astronomy : Is very sensitive to light pollution Reduces the contrast between stars and galaxies Energy Waste : Lighting is responsible for one-fourth of all electricity consumption worldwide. LIGHT POLLUTION

15. AIR POLLUTION Air pollution occurs due to the presence of undesirable solid or gaseous particles in the air in quantities that are harmful to human health and environment.

16. MAJOR PRIMARY POLLUTATNTS Sulphur oxides : Particularly sulfur dioxide, SO 2  is produced by volcanoes and various industrial processes. Coal and petroleum often contain sulfur compounds, and their combustion releases sulfur dioxide. Further oxidation of SO 2 , usually in the presence of a catalyst such as NO 2 , forms H 2 SO 4 , and leads to the formation of acid rain . Nitrogen oxides : Nitrogen oxides, particularly nitrogen dioxide, NO 2 are expelled from high-temperature combustion , and are also produced during thunderstorms by electric discharge. It is one of the most prominent air pollutants. Carbon monoxide :  CO is also a toxic gas. It is a product of incomplete combustion of fuel such as natural gas, coal or wood. Vehicular exhaust is a major source of carbon monoxide. 

17. Volatile organic compounds : VOCs are a well-known outdoor air pollutant. They are categorized as either methane (CH 4 ) or non-methane (NMVOCs). Methane is a greenhouse gas that has contributed to enhancing global warming . The aromatic NMVOCs such as benzene, toluene and xylene are suspected carcinogens and may lead to leukemia with prolonged exposure.  Particulate Matter : Particulates, alternatively referred to as particulate matter (PM), atmospheric particulate matter, or fine particles, are particles of solid or liquid suspended in a gas . Aerosols In contrast, aerosol refers to combined particles and gas. They can occur naturally, from volcanoes, dust storms, forest fires, and sea spray. Human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels in vehicles, power plants and industrial processes also generate significant amounts of aerosols.

18. MAJOR SECONDARY POLLUTANTS Particulates created from gaseous primary pollutants are called secondary pollutants. Smog is a kind of secondary air pollution. Smog results from large amounts of coal burning in an area caused by a mixture of smoke and sulfur dioxide . Smog also comes from vehicular and industrial emissions that are acted on in the atmosphere by ultraviolet light from the sun to form secondary pollutants that also combine with the primary emissions to form photochemical smog. 

19. CAUSE AND EFFECTS OF AIR POLLUTION CAUSES 1. Burning fossil fuels : Produces significant amounts of sulfur dioxide. Carbon monoxide pollution is caused by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. 2. Cars : Polluting gases emitted by vehicles such as jeeps, trucks, cars and buses. These are the main sources of greenhouse gases, as well as causes of disease in humans. 3. Agricultural activities : Ammonia is one of the most dangerous gases produced by agricultural activities. 4. Factories and industry : Toxic gases, hydrocarbons and chemicals are mainly produced in factories and industries. They are released into the atmosphere, degrading its quality. EFFECTS 1. Diseases: As a result of air pollution, people have developed various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. 2. Global warming : the gaseous composition of the air is unbalanced as a result of GHG emission. As a result, the Earth's temperature has risen, the glaciers melted and sea levels rose. 3. Ozone depletion: The main cause of ozone depletion is the emission of chlorofluorocarbons, halogens and hydrochlorofluorocarbons into the atmosphere and depleting ozone layer does not protect people from the sun's harmful UV rays that cause skin diseases and vision problems. 4. Impact on Animals : Air pollutants settle on water bodies and harm aquatic life. How bad is the air pollution in Delhi? Doctors say breathing toxic air in Delhi is like smoking 10 cigarettes a day. In November and December of last year, Delhi exceeded the WHO’s safe air quality limit by about 40 times. Air quality in New Delhi — which is hurt year-round by vehicle and factory emissions — deteriorates every fall as farmers in nearby states burn crop stubble, then worsens after Diwali.   IMA has warned public to retrain themselves form going out and declared a “Public Health Emergency” in Delhi, couple of years back. It can lead to lower life expectancy and an increased chance of lung cancer, among other illnesses. Source – Business today, Feb 18, 2023

20. WATER POLLUTION 71% of earth’s surface is covered by water-but only a tiny fraction is available as fresh water. 97% of total water is found in oceans and 3% is fresh water . Out of this 2.997% is locked in ice caps, only 0.003% of total volume is available as soil moisture, ground water, water vapour, water in lakes, streams, rivers and wetlands. When the quality or composition of water changes directly or indirectly as a result of man’s activities such that it becomes unfit for any purpose it is said to be polluted.

21. CAUSES OF WATER POLLUTION Sewage and wastewater Many households dump their waste directly into water bodies. Moreover, households which are not served by municipal treatment plant may use septic tanks, which eventually infiltrates into the soil, causing pollution of groundwater. Industrial effluents and Industrial Usage Some industries may directly pump their untreated wastes into water bodies such as rivers. Various industries also use water as a coolant, thereby causing thermal pollution. Increased water temperatures can cause a reduction in the levels of oxygen; which can cause the death of fish and other organisms. Eutrophication W hen large quantities of nutrients are introduced into a body of water, causing the rapid growth of algae. This decrease the oxygen level in the water, rendering the fish unable to breathe. Agricultural run-offs Agricultural run-offs include fertilizers and other chemicals that can make the water toxic. Moreover, some of these fertilizers can induce eutrophication.

22. EFFECTS OF WATER POLLUTION Water bodies located in close proximity to urban areas are heavily polluted . Water pollution has a significant impact on aquatic life. This affects their metabolism and behavior, and causes disease and death. Water pollution can have a significant impact on the food chain. It breaks the food chain. Cadmium and lead are two toxic substances that enter the food chain through animals and can continue to be broken down at higher levels. Pollution affects people, and faeces in water sources can cause diseases such as hepatitis . Poor drinking water treatment and contaminated water can always lead to an outbreak of infectious diseases such as cholera. Due to water pollution, the ecosystem can be seriously damaged, changed and destructured.

23. Most waterbodies in Ahmedabad degraded, polluted: Study The study underscores the importance of addressing these issues to preserve the city's water bodies that have played a crucial role in sustaining the environment over the years. Tens lakes were studied, four have lost 10% or more of their area in the past decade, with Makarba experiencing the highest shrinkage at 15%, followed by Ramol at 14%. Research period- 2000 to 2022 GIS to analyze satellite images, identifying issues such as pollution, degradation, and loss of natural vegetation. Lakes like Chandola and Vastrapur were reconstructed for decorative purposes, impacting natural vegetation with ornamental plants. Other areas were reported as polluted due to chemical waste, plastic waste, and sewage water release. Algal blooms and invasive species, such as water hyacinth , were observed in many lakes, and significant shrinkage occurred between 2012 and 2022. Source : Times of India, November 2023

24. MITIGATION STRATEGIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION Renewable Energy Transition : Promoting the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, reduces reliance on fossil fuels and minimizes air pollution. Transitioning to clean energy technologies mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, improves air quality, and reduces the impacts of climate change. Sustainable Transportation : Encouraging the adoption of sustainable transportation systems, including electric vehicles, public transportation, and cycling infrastructure, reduces air pollution from vehicle emissions. Implementing fuel efficiency standards, promoting carpooling, and improving urban planning contribute to cleaner air and reduced traffic congestion. Waste Management : Implementing effective waste management strategies, such as recycling, composting, and proper disposal, minimizes pollution of water bodies and soil. Waste reduction initiatives, waste-to-energy technologies, and the establishment of recycling programs help conserve resources, reduce landfill waste, and minimize pollution risks.

25. MITIGATION STRATEGIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION Conservation and Restoration : Protecting and restoring natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and coral reefs, plays a crucial role in mitigating pollution. These ecosystems act as natural filters, improving water and air quality while supporting biodiversity. Conservation efforts help preserve ecosystem services and mitigate the impacts of pollution. Environmental Regulations and Policies : Enforcing stringent environmental regulations and policies is essential in curbing pollution. Governments should set emission standards, regulate industrial practices, and impose penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, responsible waste management, and pollution prevention measures strengthens environmental protection. Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about the impacts of pollution and encouraging sustainable practices is crucial for pollution mitigation. Educating communities about the importance of reducing pollution, adopting eco-friendly behaviors, and supporting environmentally conscious initiatives fosters a collective effort toward a cleaner and healthier environment.

26. ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND ACTS India has several key environmental protection acts and laws in place to address various environmental concerns. Some of the prominent acts include The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 The Air (prevention and control of pollution) act, 1981 The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 National Forest Policy, 1988 Coastal Regulation Zone, 1991 The ozone-depleting substances (regulation and control) rules, 2000 The energy conservation act, 2001 Biological diversity act, 2002 Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA)

27. ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND ACTS (Cont.) National Environment Policy, 2006 The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 Green Highways (Plantation, Transplantation, Beautification & Maintenance) Policy, 2015 Island Protection Zone Notification, 2011 Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 Hazardous Waste Management Rules, 2016 Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016 E-Waste Management Rules, 2016 Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017

28. AGRICULTURAL POLLUTION

29. AGRICULTURAL RESIDUES Agricultural residues refer to the by-products left in the field after the primary crops have been harvested. These residues include stalks, leaves, husks, stems, and other parts of plants that are not directly used for human consumption. Agricultural residues can be valuable resources if managed properly, but they can also pose challenges and problems if not handled appropriately. India produces more than 686 million tonnes (Mt) of crop residue every year, of which 368 Mt comes from cereal crops. Among cereal crops, rice and wheat are the dominating crops, contributing about 154 and 131 Mt, respectively, in the total crop residue production.

30. TYPES OF RESIDUES

31. PROBLEMS CAUSED BY HIGH INPUT AGRICULTURAL RESIDUES S oil Health Issues: Problem: Excessive residues can lead to the depletion of soil nutrients and hinder nutrient cycling. Impact: Reduced soil fertility, compromised plant growth, and long-term degradation of soil structure. Pest and Disease Incidence: Problem: Residues left in the field can serve as breeding grounds for pests and pathogens. Impact: Increased risk of pest infestations and the spread of diseases, leading to crop losses. Weed Growth: Problem: Residues provide a favourable environment for weed growth. Impact: Competition for nutrients and water, which can affect crop yield and quality. Microbial Imbalance: Problem: High residues can alter the microbial balance in the soil. Impact: Negative effects on beneficial microorganisms, affecting nutrient cycling and soil health.

32. PROBLEMS CAUSED BY HIGH INPUT AGRICULTURAL RESIDUES Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Problem: Decomposition of residues can contribute to the release of greenhouse gases. Impact: Increased carbon dioxide and methane emissions, contributing to climate change. Burning Practices: Problem: Farmers may resort to burning residues as a disposal method. Impact: Air pollution, release of particulate matter, and the loss of valuable organic matter. Water Quality Concerns: Problem: Runoff from fields with high residue content can contaminate water bodies. Impact: Water pollution due to the transport of nutrients, pesticides, and sediment into rivers and lakes. Decreased Crop Quality: Problem: Residues can come in contact with crops, affecting their quality. Impact: Contaminated or low-quality crops, leading to economic losses for farmers. Resistance to Tillage: Problem: Some residues may be challenging to incorporate into the soil through traditional tillage. Impact: Difficulty in preparing the soil for the next planting season, potentially leading to delays and increased costs.

33. ACTUAL FACTORS BEHIND THIS. Intensive Crop Production: Cause: Intensive cultivation of crops with high yields often results in more plant biomass, including a higher volume of residues. Impact: Increased residues from the primary crops can contribute to the overall biomass in the field. Crop Residue Management Practices: Cause: Inefficient or inadequate management practices for crop residues. Impact: If residues are not properly managed through techniques like mulching, incorporation into the soil, or removal for alternative uses, they can accumulate on the field surface. Mechanized Farming Practices: Cause: The use of machinery in modern agriculture can leave more residues behind after harvesting. Impact: Mechanized harvesting and other farm operations may leave more plant material in the field, contributing to increased residues. Crop Selection: Cause: Certain crops, especially those with high biomass, can contribute more residues. Impact: Crop choices influence the amount of biomass produced and, consequently, the volume of residues left in the field.

34. No-Till or Reduced Tillage Systems: Cause: Adoption of no-till or reduced tillage practices that leave more residues on the soil surface. Impact: While these practices have soil conservation benefits, they can contribute to higher residues in the field. Crop Residue Retention for Soil Health: Cause: Some farmers intentionally leave residues on the field to enhance soil organic matter and structure. Impact: While this is a positive practice for soil health, it can lead to higher residue levels if not balanced with effective management. Climate and Growing Conditions: Cause: Favourable climate conditions that support robust plant growth. Impact: In regions with conducive climates for crop growth, there may be higher biomass production and, consequently, increased residues. Residue from Previous Crops: Cause: Residues left from the previous crop in a crop rotation system. Impact: Depending on the decomposition rate of residues, they can accumulate and affect the following crops.

35. MITIGATION STRATEGIES Sustainable Farming Practices: Encouraging the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming, precision agriculture, and agroforestry, can minimize pollution. These practices focus on optimizing resource efficiency, reducing chemical inputs, and promoting biodiversity conservation. Nutrient Management: Implementing precision nutrient management techniques, including soil testing, balanced fertilization, and proper timing of application, can reduce excess nutrient runoff and enhance crop uptake efficiency. This approach reduces the risk of water contamination while maintaining agricultural productivity. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM combines various pest control methods, such as biological control, crop rotation, and use of resistant crop varieties, to minimize reliance on chemical pesticides. This approach targets pests while reducing environmental impacts and promoting ecosystem health.

36. Improved Livestock Waste Management: Implementing proper manure management systems, such as anaerobic digestion, composting, and nutrient recycling, helps mitigate water pollution from livestock farming. These practices capture methane emissions, produce renewable energy, and reduce the release of pathogens and nutrient runoff. Precision Nutrient Management: Employing precision nutrient management techniques, such as soil testing, targeted fertilization, and nutrient management plans, can optimize nutrient use efficiency and minimize nutrient imbalances caused by excessive residue inputs. This approach ensures that nutrients are applied based on crop requirements and soil conditions, reducing environmental risks and improving crop productivity. Education and Awareness : Promoting awareness among farmers, policymakers, and consumers about the environmental consequences of agriculture pollution is essential. Educating stakeholders about sustainable practices, providing incentives, and supporting research and development can foster the adoption of pollution mitigation strategies.

37. CONCLUSION Environmental pollution poses significant challenges to the health of ecosystems and human populations.  By implementing mitigation strategies, such as transitioning to renewable energy, sustainable transportation, effective waste management, conservation efforts, and stringent regulations, we can reduce pollution levels and promote a sustainable future. It is crucial for individuals, governments, and industries to work together to prioritize environmental protection and ensure the well-being of our planet for future generations.