b.
Water
Environment
Pollutants
1. Nutrients
Nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, are essential elements for life.
However, excessive levels, often originating from agricultural runoff and
industrial effluents, can lead to eutrophication. This process promotes algal
blooms, depleting oxygen and posing threats to aquatic ecosystems.
2. Heavy Metals
Heavy metals, including mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic, are toxic
elements originating from industrial discharges, mining activities, and
atmospheric deposition. These metals can accumulate in the food chain,
posing risks to both aquatic organisms and human health.
3. Pathogens
Pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, and parasites, are
microorganisms present in untreated sewage, agricultural runoff, and animal
waste. These contaminants can lead to waterborne diseases, emphasizing the
importance of proper water treatment.
4. Organic Pollutants
Organic pollutants, such as pesticides and industrial chemicals, can harm
aquatic life. They often originate from industrial discharges, agricultural
runoff, and urban sources. Identifying and managing these pollutants is
crucial for maintaining water quality.
5. Suspended Solids
Suspended solids encompass particles like sediment and organic matter,
often originating from erosion, construction activities, and urban runoff.
These particles can reduce light penetration, affecting aquatic vegetation and
altering habitat structures for aquatic organisms.
6. Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care
Products (PPCPs) and Hormones
PPCPs and hormones enter water bodies through the disposal of
medications, personal care products, and wastewater discharges. Their
presence in water can have unknown long-term effects on aquatic ecosystems
and potentially impact human health.
7. Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution involves the accumulation of plastic waste in water bodies,
resulting from improper disposal and inadequate waste management.
Plastics can persist in the environment, causing physical harm to aquatic
organisms and contributing to broader environmental challenges.
8. Thermal Pollution
Thermal pollution results from the discharge of heated water into water
bodies, often stemming from industrial processes. Elevated water
temperatures can reduce dissolved oxygen levels, negatively impacting
aquatic ecosystems and altering the distribution of aquatic species.
9. Oil and Petroleum Products
Oil and petroleum products, originating from sources like oil spills,
industrial discharges, and runoff from roads, pose significant threats to
water quality. These substances can have toxic effects on aquatic life and
cause long-term ecological damage.
Thank You
