Index

Sr. Name of topic Page no.

No
1 Discovery of Fire 1
2 Environment and Eco system 2
3 Air pollution 4
4 Soil Pollution 10
5 Land use and Land cover change 13
6 Water pollution 15
7 Noise Pollution 17
8 Industrial revolution and impact on environment 19
9 Sustainability and Sustainable development 21
10 Population growth and natural resource exploitation 22

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 1. Discovery of Fire
The control of fire by early humans was a major milestone in the process of
evolution of humans. Fire provided

1. A source of warmth and lighting - : Especially in colder region, fire provided much
relief to early humans. At night when temperature was at lowest fire helped early
human survive in colder region.
2. Protection from predators –: Some predators mostly hunts at night. Fire gave
protection to early human from such predators.
3. More advanced hunting tools - : Fire was also used by early human as a tool in
hunting. As well as it helped early humans to make new tools for hunting.
4. Method for cooking food -: Early humans soon discovered that fire can be used to
cook food/meat. Cooked food/meat can be stored for longer period of time. Cooked
foods improves digestion. It in turn increased calories intake of early humans.

Discovery of fire allowed human

1. To disperse geographically -: fire helped early humans to come out from dense
forest to open grassland where hunting is bit easy. They also used fire to clear of land
for cultivation.
2. Socialize -: Before starting to live in caves, early humans learnt to socialize around
fire. It initiated process of development of language.
3. Cooking theory -: Theory believes that improved calories intake helped humans to
increase size of their brain over a period of time.
4. Continue activates into the dark and colder hours of the evening.

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2. Environment and Eco System
Q.1 What is Environment ? what are the elements of environment?

Our environment is everything that surrounds us- from the trees, mountains, roads, buildings,
things and even people. It is a combination of both natural and human-made elements. These
elements are divided into two types: Biotic and Abiotic. Biotic elements are all the living
organisms. Abiotic elements include all the non-living things.

Natural Environment
Everything that is not human-made comes under natural environment. Land, air, water,
plants and animals all comprise the natural environment. Let us learn about the different
domains of the natural environment. These are the
1. Lithosphere
2. Hydrosphere
3. Atmosphere and
4. Biosphere.

1. Lithosphere -: The lithosphere is the solid crust or the hard top layer of the earth.
It is made up of rocks and minerals and covered with a thin layer of soil. The
lithosphere is an irregular surface with mountains, plateaus, plains, valleys,
landforms, etc. It is the domain that provides us with forests, grasslands for grazing,
land for agriculture and housing. It is also a source of minerals.

2. Hydrosphere -: The hydrosphere is the domain of water. It comprises of the

various sources of water and different types of water bodies like rivers, lakes, seas,
oceans, estuaries, etc. It is essential for all living organisms.

3. Atmosphere -: The atmosphere is the thin layer of air that surrounds the earth. It is
held by the gravitational force of the earth. The Atmosphere protects us from the
harmful UV rays from the sun by blocking them out. It contains a number of gases
like oxygen, which is essential for life, dust and water vapor. Changes in atmosphere
bring changes in weather and climate.

4. Biosphere -: All life makes up the biosphere. It is the zone of the earth where land,
water and air interact with each other to support life.

Human Environment

Human environment is the man-made environment. It has been modified by humans

according to their needs. Before technology evolved, human beings would adapt themselves
to the natural environment. They led a simple life and fulfilled their requirements from the

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nature around them. With time, their needs grew and became more varied. Human learnt new
ways to change their environment according to their needs

They learnt to grow crops, domesticate animals and build houses. They invented the wheel,
barter system, trade and commerce. Transportation became faster. Large-scale production
was possible through Industrial revolution. Communication became easier and speedy across
the world. They have formed an artificial ecosystem.

A perfect balance is necessary between the natural and man-made environment. If we use the
sources provided by environment wisely, we can establish a healthy balance. We should use
our resources wisely and learn to conserve them. natural resources like wood, minerals,
water, air are precious and essential for survival. If we do not use them wisely, we may run
out of them one day. We should think about our future generations.

Q.2 What is an ecosystem?

All plants, animals and human beings depends on each other. The relation between living
organisms, as well as the relation between living organisms and their environment, form an
ecosystem. An ocean is an example of an ecosystem because it comprises of living
organisms, land, air ( in dissolved form) and water of course.

Q. 3 Environmentalism

Human environment is the man-made environment. It has been modified by humans

according to their needs. Before technology evolved, human beings would adapt themselves
to the natural environment. They led a simple life and fulfilled their requirements from the
nature around them. With time, their needs grew and became more varied. Human learnt new
ways to change their environment according to their needs

Environmentalism means sustainable management of resources, and the protection (and

restoration, when necessary) of the natural environment through changes in public policy and
individual behavior. Environment revolves around ecology, health, and human rights.

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 3. Air pollution
Normally clean, dry air consists of 78% of nitrogen and 21% of oxygen by volume. The
remaining 1 percent is a mixture of other gases, like carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen,
helium, and more. Water vapor is also a normal., though quite variable, component of the
atmosphere, normally ranging from 0.01 to 4 percent by volume; under very humid
conditions the moisture content of air may be as high as 5 percent.

Excessive content of following gases causes air pollution.

1. Carbon monoxide (co)
2. Sulfer dioxide
3. Nitrogen oxides (NO and NO 2)
4. Ozone
5. Sulfer dioxide (So 2)
6. Particulate matter
7. Lead ( pb)

Excessive % of all above mentioned gases cause inflammation and Respiratory tract
infection, lung infection and breathing difficulties. Lead on the other hand can cause learning
disabilities among young children if exposed.

1. Carbon monoxide - : It is an odour less, invisible gas formed as a result of incomplete

combustion. It is biggest cause of air pollution.
Carbon monoxide is largely emitted from vehicles running on petro/gas, similarly
Residential heating systems and certain industrial processes also emit significant amounts of
this gas.

2. Sulfer dioxide -: A colourless gas with a sharp, choking odour, sulfur dioxide is formed
during the combustion of coal or oil that contains sulfur as an impurity. Most sulfur dioxide
emissions come from power-generating plants. This pungent gas can cause eye and throat
irritation and harm lung tissue when inhaled.
Sulfur dioxide also reacts with oxygen and water vapour in the air, forming a mist of sulfuric
acid that reaches the ground as a component of acid rain.
Acid rain is believed to have harmed or destroyed fish and plant life in many thousands of
lakes and streams in parts of Europe, the northeastern United States, southeastern Canada,
and parts of China.
It also causes corrosion of metals and deterioration of the exposed surfaces of buildings and
public monuments.

3. Nitrogen dioxide -: Of the several forms of nitrogen oxides, nitrogen dioxide is a strong ,
irritating gas.It is known to cause an accumulation of excessive fluid in the lungs
(pulmonary edema).

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Nitrogen dioxide also reacts in the atmosphere to form nitric acid, contributing to the
problem of acid rain.
In addition, nitrogen dioxide plays a role in the formation of smog. Smog is combination of
smoke and fog.
Power plants generating power from coal is major contributor to air pollution by Nitrogen
dioxide. India produces maximum of its power consumed from coal. Although it is well
designed plant considering India’s power requirement, Nitrogen dioxide emitted by such
power plant is cause of concern.

4. Ozoen -: Ozone layer is found in upper most layer of atmosphere. It protects earth from
direct ultra violet rays from sun.
Nitrogen dioxide and hydrocarbon in presence of sunlight forms smog. Places with high
traffic and sunshine usually experiences smog and variation in temperature due to damage to
such ozone layer.

5. Fine particulate matter -: Small particulate matters aare classified on the basis of size
and phase ( i.e. solid or liquid). For example, solid particulates between roughly 1 and 100
μm in diameter are called dust particles.
The particulates matter less than 10 μm in diameter are most dangerous for human health, as
they can be inhaled deep into the lungs and become trapped in the lower respiratory system.
Certain particulates, such as asbestos fibres, are cancer -causing agents.
Major sources of particulate emissions include construction industry i.e. construction of
building /road infrastructure projects.
Mumbai high court ordered to stop construction of all public infrastructure in 2023 due to
considerable emission of dust particle while construction of costal road and metro lines.

6. Lead -: Inhaled lead particulates in the form of fumes and dusts are particularly harmful to
children, in whom even slightly elevated levels of lead in the blood can cause learning
disabilities, seizures. Sources of airborne lead particulates include oil refining, process of
smelting ( deriving metal from mineral or compound ) other industrial activities.

Q. 2 Greenhouse gases -:

Global warming is recognized by almost all atmospheric scientists as a significant

environmental problem caused by an increase in levels of certain gases in the atmosphere.
These gases, collectively called greenhouse gases, include carbon dioxide, organic chemicals
called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, and many others. Carbon
dioxide, although not the most dangerous of the greenhouse gases, is the most important
because of the huge volumes emitted into the air by combustion of fossil fuels (e.g.,
gasoline, oil, coal).
Carbon dioxide is considered a normal component of the atmosphere, and before the
Industrial Revolution the average levels of this gas were about 280 parts per million (ppm).
By 2020 the levels of carbon dioxide had reached 417 ppm.

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Increase in these greenhouse gases is rising temperature level. Increase in temperature level
is causing melting of glacier and increase in sea level.
Rising global warming also affect monsoon pattern, like uneven distribution of monsoon, or
concentration of monsoon in one or two months etc. In turn it largely affects agriculture.

Causes of air pollution

1. The Burning of Fossil Fuels

Most of the air pollution takes place due to the incomplete burning of fossil fuels. These
include coal, oil, and gasoline to produce energy for electricity or transportation. The release
of CO at a high level indicates how much fossil fuel is burned. This also emits other toxic
pollutants like nitrogen oxides into the air. Inhaling air induced with pollutants due to the
burning of natural gas and fossil fuel reduces the heart’s ability to pump enough oxygen.
Hence causing one to suffer from various respiratory and heart illnesses. Furthermore, the
nitrogen oxides are responsible for acid rain and the formation of smog.

When fossil fuels are burned, they emit more than just CO2.

 Coal-fired power stations alone account for 35% of harmful mercury emissions in the
US.
 Two-thirds of SO2 emissions cause acid rain
 The great majority of dust (particle pollution) is released in our air due to fossil fuel
burning
2. Industrial Emission

Industrial activities emit several pollutants in the air that affect the air quality more than we
can even imagine. Particulate matter 2.5 and 10, NO2, SO2, and CO are key pollutants that
are emitted from industries that use coal and wood as their primary energy source for the
production of their goods. Industrial pollution effects associated with your health can range
from

 Irritation in your eyes and throat

 Breathing issues
 At times can even lead to chronic illness
 VOCs and other emissions from industries can aggregate respiratory disorders like
asthma and bronchitis.
 O3 is also released from industries that can increase in asthma attacks.

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Huge amounts of organic chemicals like CO2, hydrocarbons, etc. are released by the
industries including other toxicants. They furthermore affect the climate as CO2 causes a
greenhouse effect. Hence, causing the heat to be trapped within the earth’s atmosphere.
Therefore, the temperature and humidity increase. More and more industries are being built
as the demand grows. And as a result the emissions also increase day by day. We are already
observing the after-effects of this, as the earth’s temperature rises by 1 degree Celsius per
decade.

3. Indoor air pollution -:

Use of toxic products also called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), inadequate
ventilation, uneven temperature, and humidity level can cause indoor air pollution, whether
you are in an office, school, or at your comfortable home. House air pollution can take place
due to ignorant factors, for instance, smoking tobacco inside a room or leaving mold-infected
walls untreated. The use of wood stoves or space heaters is capable of increasing the
humidity level which can directly affect the health of a person in no time. Carcinogens and
toxins from indoor air pollution cause 17% of deaths from lung cancer.

4. Wildfires

Climate change is not just increasing wildfire but also spiking air pollution. Burning stubble
and farm residue is also a major contribution to wildfire. It causes increased PM2.5 in the air
which collides with other harmful substances like chemical gas and pollen creating smog.
Smog makes the air hazy and people find it difficult to breathe. Visibility also decreases as a
result of this smog. Difficulty in breathing, irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, itchiness in
the respiratory tract, etc. are all symptoms of inhaling smog.

 As many as 90% of the wildfires are caused by anthropogenic reasons, a small spark
can turn acres of forest area into ashes.
 The soot and dust particles, smoke (that contains several toxic chemicals) can stay
suspended in the air for days.
 The average temperature is increasing day by day due to the greenhouse effect. As a
result, the rise in temperature affects the rate of wildfires.
 More the temperature, more the cases of wildfires and forest fires. Wildlife, plants,
and animals are all impacted by wildfires.

5. Microbial Decaying Process

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Bacteria and fungi play a fundamental role in the biogeochemical cycles in nature. They are
the key indicators of abnormal environmental conditions. Decaying (rotting) of these
microorganisms present in the surroundings releases methane gas which is highly toxic.
Breathing toxic gas like methane may lead to death.

Decaying process releases carbon, methane, and nitrogen that can affect the quality of air to
some extent. As these microbes stay suspended in the air, they can cause

 Asthma aggregation
 Many other discomforts
 Irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat.
 Chances of having skin allergies also increases.
6. Transportation

Cars on the roads are increasing day by day. There is no denying that vehicle pollution is the
major contributor to air pollution, especially in urban cities, where car ownership rates are
more as compared to rural areas. When the car burns gasoline, it emits pollutants in the air
which is as harmful as smoking 10 cigarettes a day. Your vehicle emits:

1. Carbon monoxide,
2. Hydrocarbons,
3. Nitrogen oxide, and
4. Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
When vehicle pollution is high in the atmosphere, it creates a hole in the ozone layer
contributing to smog and causing various health issues.

Large numbers of cars and other vehicles on the roads contribute to traffic congestion on the
roads, affecting the air quality of that particular area to a great extent. This necessitates the
need to monitor the air quality at local level, for each area, so that identifying the sources and
taking the proper measures can be done.

Taking proper and effective measures as individuals to control vehicular emissions such as
carpooling, using public transportation (metros, buses, rails) will help in reducing the
vehicular emissions.

7. Open Burning of Garbage Waste

Open burning of garbage is much more harmful to your health and the environment than one
may think. As per Engage EPW, Delhi Air Pollution is choking public health. Delhi
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generates a whopping 9500 tons of waste every day, which makes it India’s second waste
dumping city. Exposure to open burning of garbage waste can pose serious health risks
including:

1. Cancer
2. Liver issues
3. Impairment of the immune system
4. Reduced reproductive functions
5. Can also affect the developing nervous system.
Open air garbage burning releases toxins such as black carbon, soot, and carcinogens. It
actively contributes to the greenhouse effect, and in turn to climate change. Black carbon and
soot gets deposited on the ice peaks, which results in their meltdown.

Open garbage burning causes skin irritation, aggravates asthma and other respiratory
diseases and illnesses, increases the risk of heart diseases, and difficulties in breathing,
nausea and headaches.

8. Construction and Demolition

Construction and demolition work emits dust particle. In Mumbai BMC ordered to stop all
constructions works for 2 days in year 2023. Excessive dust particle causes breathing issues
as such dust particle gets inhaled.

9. Agriculture - :

Agricultural activities have had a serious impact on the decreasing air quality. To begin with,
pesticides and fertilizers are the main sources that contaminate the surrounding air.
Nowadays, pesticides and fertilizers are mixed with new invasive species which are not
found in nature, for quick growth of the crops and vegetation. Once they are sprayed over,
the smell and the effect of the pesticides are left in the air. Some mix with water and some
seeps into the ground which not only destroys the crops but also causes numerous health-
related issues.

4. Soil pollution
Q. 1 What is soil pollution ? what are the causes of soil pollution
Soil pollution refers to the contamination of soil with abnormal concentrations of toxic
substances.

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It is a serious environmental concern since it leads to many health issues. For example,
exposure to soil containing high concentrations of benzene increases the risk of contracting
leukaemia (a kind of cancer.)
It is important to understand that all soils contain compounds that are harmful/toxic to human
beings and other living organisms. However, the concentration of such substances in
unpolluted soil is low enough that they do not pose any threat to the surrounding ecosystem.
When the concentration of one or more such toxic substances is high enough to cause
damage to living organisms, the soil is said to be contaminated.

The root cause of soil pollution is often one of the following:

1. Agriculture (excessive/improper use of pesticides) -:
2. Excessive industrial activity
3. Poor management or inefficient disposal of waste

The challenges faced in soil remediation (decontamination of soil) are closely related to the
extent of soil pollution. The greater the contamination, the greater the requirement for
resources for remediation.

Q. 2 What are the Pollutants that Contaminate Soil?

Following are the Pollutants that Contaminate Soil

1. Heavy Metals -: The presence of heavy metals (such as lead and mercury, in
abnormally high concentrations) in soils can cause it to become highly toxic to human
beings. These metals can originate from several sources such as mining activities,
agricultural activities, and electronic waste (e-waste), and medical waste.

2. Industrial Waste - : The discharge of industrial waste into soils can result in soil
pollution. Some common soil pollutants that can be sourced from industrial waste are
listed below.

3. Petroleum Refinery waste -: The petroleum industry creates many petroleum

hydrocarbon waste products. Some of these wastes, such as benzene and
methylbenzene, are known to be cause of cancer.

4. Pesticides -: Pesticides are substances (or mixtures of substances) that are used to kill
or inhibit the growth of pests. Common types of pesticides used in agriculture poses a
variety of environmental concerns such as water pollution and soil pollution.

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Q. 3 What are the Processes that Cause Soil Pollution?
Soil pollution can be broadly classified into two categories –
A. Naturally caused soil pollution
B. Anthropogenic soil pollution (caused by human activity)

A. Natural Pollution of Soil - : Desertification of land near desert is an example of

natural soil pollution. Similarly soil erosion caused in hilly region is also an example
of natural soil pollution.
B. Soil pollution caused by human activity -:

1. The demolition of old buildings can involve the contamination of nearby soil with
asbestos.
2. Usage of lead-based paint during construction activities can also pollute the soil with
hazardous concentrations of lead.
3. Spillage of petrol and diesel during transportation can contaminate soils with the
hydrocarbons found in petroleum.
4. Activities associated with metal casting factories (foundries) often cause the
dispersion of metallic contaminants into the nearby soils.
5. Underground mining activities can cause the contamination of land with heavy
metals.
6. Improper disposal of highly toxic industrial/chemical waste can severely pollute the
soil. For example, the storage of toxic wastes in landfills can result in the seepage of
the waste into the soil. This waste can go on to pollute groundwater as well.
7. Chemical pesticides contain several hazardous substances. Excessive and inefficient
use of chemical pesticides can result in severe soil pollution.
8. Sewage produced in urbanized areas can also contaminate soil (if not disposed of
correctly). These wastes may also contain several carcinogenic substances.
9. Other forms of waste that can pollute soil include nuclear waste, e-waste, and coal
ash.

Q. 4 What are the effects of Soil Pollution?

Effects of soil pollution can be listed as follows.

1. Effects on human being
2. Effects on plant and animal
3. Effects on eco system

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 1. Effects on Human Beings - : Soil contaminants can exist in all three phases (solid,
liquid, and gaseous). Therefore, these contaminants can find their way into the human
body via several channels such as direct contact with the skin or through the
inhalation of contaminated soil dust.

The short term effects of human exposure to polluted soil include - : Headaches,
nausea, and vomiting. Fatigue and weakness.

A variety of long-term ailments have been linked to soil pollution. Such as

Depression of the CNS (Central Nervous System).Damage to vital organs such as the
kidney and the liver. Higher risk of developing cancer.

2. Effects on Plants and Animals - : Since soil pollution is often accompanied by a

decrease in the availability of nutrients, plant life ceases to thrive in such soils. Soils
contaminated with inorganic aluminium can prove toxic to plants. Also, this type of
pollution often increases the salinity of the soil, making it inhospitable for the growth
of plant life.
Plants that are grown in polluted soil may accumulate high concentrations of soil
pollutants through a process known as bioaccumulation. When these plants are
consumed by herbivores, all the accumulated pollutants are passed up the food chain.
This can result in the loss/extinction of many desirable animal species. Also, these
pollutants can eventually make their way to the top of the food chain and manifest as
diseases in human beings.

3. Effects on the Ecosystem -: Since the pollutant in the soil can percolate to
underground water reserves, soil pollution can be a direct contributor to water
pollution.
It can also contribute to acid rain (by releasing huge quantities of ammonia into the
atmosphere).
Crop yield is greatly affected by this form of pollution. Not only fertility of soil
reduces sometimes quality of produce is not fit for human consumption.

5. Land use and land cover change

Land use and land cover change (LUCC) refers to the transformation of the Earth’s surface
due to human activities and natural processes.

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Land Use -: Describes the physical characteristics of the land surface, such as forests,
grasslands, wetlands, or urban areas.
Examples: Forests, deserts, water bodies, and built-up areas.

Land cover change -: It refers to how humans utilize the land, such as for agriculture, urban
development, forestry, or recreation.
Examples: Converting forests to farmland, expanding urban areas, or creating parks.

Factors affecting land cover change -:

1. Human Activities: Agriculture, urbanization, deforestation, and infrastructure

development.
2. Natural Processes: Climate change, natural disasters, and ecological succession.

Impacts of LUCC
1. Environmental: Loss of biodiversity, changes in water cycles, and increased
greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Social: Displacement of communities, changes in livelihoods, and impacts on cultural
practices.
3. Economic: Alterations in land value, changes in agricultural productivity, and costs
associated with environmental degradation.

Monitoring and Managing LUCC

1. Technologies: Remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and satellite
imagery are used to monitor changes.
2. Policies: Sustainable land management practices and p

Land degradation -: Land degradation refers to a reduction or loss in the biological or

economic productivity and complexity of land. It occurs due to a combination of natural and
human-induced processes acting upon the land.

Definition:- Any undesirable change in land is called as land degradation. It can result from
processes like soil erosion, deterioration of soil properties, and long-term loss of natural
vegetation.

Consequences of land degradation

1. Lower crop yields
2. Less diverse ecosystems
3. Increased vulnerability to natural disasters (e.g., floods, droughts)
4. Displacement of people from their homes
5. Reduced food availability
6. Economic challenges

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Land degradation and Climate Change : Land degradation releases greenhouse gases,
exacerbating climate change. Soil carbon and nitrous oxide are released into the atmosphere,
making it a major contributor to global warming.

6. Water Pollution
Q. 1 What is Water Pollution? What are its causes ?
Water pollution can be defined as the contamination of water bodies. Water pollution is
caused when water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, groundwater get contaminated with
industrial and agricultural wastes.

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When water gets polluted, it adversely affects all lifeforms that directly or indirectly depend
on this source. The effects of water contamination can be felt for years to come.

Following are the main causes of water pollution in India -:

1. Urbanization. - : Rising urbanization is resulting into excessive use of soap/detergent

products. Chemical of soap/detergent are released in nearby water bodies. Like in
Mumbai waste water is released in sea. Some times without any treatment. It causes
water pollution.
2. Industrial effluents.- : Most of the industries release their industrial waste in nearby
water bodies without adequate treatment. Then such chemical pollutes not only water
bodies but also cause soil pollution.
3. Social and Religious Practices - : In India rivers are worshipped. All cremations of
human bodies is done on the bank of river. Sometime dead bodies are in rivers. It
contaminates river water.
4. Excessive use of Fertilizers - : With rising use of fertilizers in agriculture, excessive
fertilizer gets mixed in nearly water bodies resulting into water pollution
5. Agricultural run-offs -: Excessive use of insecticides and pesticides also
contaminates nearby water bodies

Effects Of Water Pollution

The effect of water pollution depends upon the type of pollutants and their concentration.
Also, the location of water bodies is an important factor to determine the levels of pollution.

Water bodies in the vicinity of urban areas are extremely polluted. This is the result of
dumping garbage and toxic chemicals by industrial and commercial establishments.
Water pollution drastically affects aquatic life. It affects their metabolism, and behaviour,
and causes illness and eventual death. Dioxin is a chemical that causes a lot of problems
from reproduction to uncontrolled cell growth or cancer. This chemical is bioaccumulated in
fish, chicken and meat. Chemicals such as this travel up the food chain before entering the
human body.

The effect of water pollution can have a huge impact on the food chain. It disrupts the food
chain. Cadmium and lead are some toxic substances, these pollutants upon entering the food
chain through animals (fish when consumed by animals, humans) can continue to disrupt at
higher levels.

Humans are affected by pollution and can contract diseases such as hepatitis through faecal
matter in water sources. Poor drinking water treatment and unfit water can always cause an
outbreak of infectious diseases such as cholera, etc.

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The ecosystem can be critically affected, modified and destructured because of water
pollution.

Pollution of the River Ganga-:

Some rivers, lakes, and groundwater are rendered unfit for usage. In India, the River Ganges
is the sixth most polluted river in the world. This is unsurprising as hundreds of industries
nearby release their wastage into the river.

Furthermore, religious activities such as burials and cremations near the shore contribute to
pollution. Apart from the ecological implications, this river poses a serious health risks as it
can cause diseases like typhoid and cholera.

Pollution of the Ganges is also driving some of the distinct fauna to extinction. The Ganges
River shark is a critically endangered species. The Ganges River dolphin is another
endangered species of dolphin that is found in the tributaries of the Ganges and Brahmaputra
rivers.

As per a survey, by the end of 2026, around 4 billion people will face a shortage of water.
Presently, around 1.2 billion people worldwide do not have access to clean, potable water
and proper sanitation. It is also projected that nearly 1000 children die every year in India
due to water-related issues.

Measures undertaken to control Water Pollution

Water pollution, to a larger extent, can be controlled by a variety of methods. Rather than
releasing sewage waste into water bodies, it is better to treat them before discharge.
Practising this can reduce the initial toxicity and the remaining substances can be degraded
and rendered harmless by the water body itself. If the secondary treatment of water has been
carried out, then this can be reused in sanitary systems and agricultural fields.

A very special plant, the Water Hyacinth can absorb dissolved toxic chemicals such as
cadmium and other such elements. Establishing these in regions prone to such kinds of
pollutants will reduce the adverse effects to a large extent.

As an individual, reusing, reducing, and recycling wherever possible will advance a long way
in overcoming the effects of water pollution.

7. Noise Pollution
Q. 1 What is Noise Pollution? What are types of noise pollution ?
Noise is the unpleasant and undesirable sound which leads to discomfort in human beings.
The intensity of sound is measured in decibels (dB). The faintest sound that the human ear

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can hear is 1 Db. Due to increasing noise around the civilizations, noise pollution has
become a matter of concern. Some of its major causes are vehicles, aircraft, industrial
machines, loudspeakers, crackers, etc. When used at high volume, some other appliances
also contribute to noise pollution, like television, transistor, radio, etc.

Following are the types of noise pollution:

1. Transport Noise
2. Neighbourhood Noise
3. Industrial Noise

1. Transport Noise -: It mainly consists of traffic noise which has increased in recent
years with the increase in the number of vehicles. The increase in noise pollution
leads to deafening of older people, headache, hypertension, etc.

2. Neighbourhood Noise -: The noise from gadgets, household utensils etc. Some of the
main sources are musical instruments, transistors, loudspeakers, etc.

3. Industrial Noise -: It is the high-intensity sound which is caused by heavy industrial

machines. According to many researches, industrial noise pollution damages the
hearing ability to around 20%.

Q. 2 Explain causes and sources of Noise Pollution

Following are the causes and sources of noise pollution:

1. Industrialisation -: Industrialisation has led to an increase in noise pollution as the

use of heavy machinery such as generators, mills, huge exhaust fans are used,
resulting in the production of unwanted noise.

2. Vehicles -: Increased number of vehicles on the roads are the second reason for noise
pollution.

3. Events -: Weddings, Sport matches, public gatherings involve loudspeakers to play

music resulting in the production of unwanted noise in the neighborhood.

4. Construction sites -: Mining, construction of buildings, etc add to the noise

pollution.

Q. 3 Effects of Noise Pollution on Human Health

Noise pollution can be hazardous to human health in the following ways:

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 1. Hypertension -: It is a direct result of noise pollution which is caused due to elevated
blood levels for a longer duration.
2. Hearing loss -: Constant exposure of human ears to loud noise that are beyond the
range of sound that human ears can withstand damages the eardrums, resulting in loss
of hearing.
3. Sleeping disorders -: Lack of sleep might result in fatigue and low energy level
throughout the day affecting everyday activities. Noise pollution hampers the sleep
cycles leading to irritation and an uncomfortable state of mind.
4. Cardiovascular issues -: Heart-related problems such as blood pressure level, stress
and cardiovascular diseases might come up in a normal person and a person suffering
from any of these diseases might feel a sudden shoot up in the level.

Q. 4 Prevention of Noise Pollution

Some noise pollution preventive measures are provided in the points below.

1. Honking in public places like teaching institutes, hospitals, etc. should be banned.
2. In commercial, hospital, and industrial buildings, adequate soundproof systems
should be installed.
3. Musical instrument should be controlled to desirable limits.
4. Dense tree cover is useful in noise pollution prevention.
5. Explosives should not be used in forest, mountainous and mining areas.

8. Industrial revolution and impact

on environment
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Rising population and improved level of technology resulted into to industrial revolution. In
industrial revolution, with the help of technology humans made necessary changes in
environment to fulfill all his need.
In many cases it resulted in exploitation of environment and endangered eco system around.
Following is the impact of industrial revolution on environment.
1. Global warming
2. Overconsumption
3. Decrease in bio diversity
4. Degradation of natural resources
5. Change in climatic condition

1. Global Warming -: It refers to general increase in level of temperature. Due to

emission from industrial units global temperature level is rising day by day. It will
result into melting glaciers causing general rise in sea water level. It is serious threat
to costal region of most of the world. In recent study every year global temperature is
rising by 1.5 C.

2. Over consumption -: With rising prosperity caused by industrial revolution

population also increase suddenly, resulting into population explosion. To meet
increased demand of such high population, resources available in eco system are
exploited in such way that many of the resources may not be available for coming
generation. Minerals like crude oil will get exhaust soon.

3. Decrease in bio diversity -: Quality of eco system its sustainability depends on bio
diversity. Industrial revolution caused serious threat to bio diversity.
Excessive fishing caused extinction of few species.
Similarly in urban area many birds are losing their natural habitat. It resulted in to loss
of bio diversity in urban areas.

4. Degradation of natural resources -: Due to over exploitation quality of natural

resources started degrading. Fertility of land in decreasing due to over cropping as
well as due to soil pollution. This is going to pose serious threat to food security. Air
quality is degrading beyond acceptable level due to air pollution caused by industrial
units.
5. Change in climatic condition -: Changes made in environment also have side effect
such as unseasonal rain, concentration of rain , uneven distribution of rain. It also
resulted in high temperature and severe cold in certain region.

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 9. Sustainability and sustainable
development
Q. 1 Explain sustainability and sustainable development ? Explain 3 P’s of sustainable
development ?

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Meaning - : Sustainability and sustainable development are often used interchangeably.
Both speak to the danger of consuming resources faster than they can be replenished.
However, a close look at sustainability vs. sustainable development reveals difference among
them.

Sustainability is a broad term that describes managing resources without depleting them for
future generations. This concept goes beyond environmental sustainability. Sustainability
include economic and social sustainability, which relate to meeting people’s current
economic and social needs without compromising future generations.

Sustainable development describes the processes for improving long-term economic well-
being and quality of life without compromising future generations ability to meet their needs.
Sustainable development ensures an impact on equity, responsibility, and social justice.

The Pillars of Sustainability and Sustainable Development

Sustainability encompasses three pillars: economic, environmental, and social, also

represented as profits, planet, and people.

1. Economic/profits -: This pillar centers on the idea of an efficient and responsible use
of resources that leads to long-term profitability. In business, profitability can equal
longevity. In other words, transitioning to a sustainable business can improve a
company’s chances of operating over the long term.

2. Environmental/planet -: In business, reducing carbon footprints, waste, and water

usage while maximizing energy efficiency can provide both environmental and
financial benefits.

3. Social/people -: The social pillar of sustainability focuses on the interrelationship of

systems and processes that support the creation of healthy and livable communities
that can sustain themselves. In business, social sustainability initiatives often include
promoting fair labor practices and wages; employee health, safety, wellness, and
work-life balance; and diversity and equity.

10. Population growth and

exploitation of natural resources
Q. Illustrate relation between population growth and exploitation of natural resources.

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Ans- : Population growth is putting pressure on environment for fulfillment on its need. In
addition to that over consumption of resources is also disturbing ecological balance.

Excessive population resulting into more demand for

1. Food
2. Land for residential and cultivation and other purpose,
3. Drinkable Water
4. Energy need

Excessive demand from huge population resulting into exploitation of natural resources.
Following are various impacts on environment

1. Forests are cleared for various purposes. It is resulting into loss of habitat for many
animals. Bio diversity is in danger due to population
2. To fulfill needs of rising population industrialization is must. It is major factor
causing air soil and water and noise pollution.
3. Excessive Fishing cause extinction of few species.
4. To fulfill energy need of excessive population, mineral like coal, oil gases are
extracted on large scale disturbing ecological balance in respective area.
5. Excessive use of energy is causing global warming. It in turn increasing melting of
glacier. And increasing sea level.
6. Lavish life style of rich people is increasing non degradable waste causing soil
pollution. Rising use of plastic e-waste is major cause of concern in near future.

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