WATER POLLUTION: A REVIEW

KENTHARA NAVIA, BSEE, CEE114 (6222)

Introduction:

Water pollution is a critical environmental issue that affects the quality of freshwater bodies
globally, stemming from multiple anthropogenic activities. This complex problem impacts
not only aquatic life but also human health, economic activities, and the overall
environmental integrity. Understanding its causes, effects, and mitigation strategies is
essential for sustainable water management and environmental conservation. by defining
what water pollution is and explaining why it is a critical issue. This helps readers understand
the importance of the topic and its impact on both the environment and human health.
contamination of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater, making them
unsuitable for use. This occurs when harmful substances, also known as pollutants, are
discharged into the water without adequate treatment to remove or neutralize the pollutants.

Results and Discussion:

Harm to aquatic life: Water pollution can lead to a decrease in the oxygen levels in water
bodies, making it difficult for aquatic life to survive. It can also result in the death of fish and
other aquatic organisms due to exposure to toxic chemicals. Human health risks:
Contaminated water can lead to various health issues in humans, including diarrhea, skin
irritation, respiratory problems, and even cancer. Consuming contaminated water can also
lead to waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Economic impact: Water
pollution can have a significant economic impact on communities that rely on fishing,
tourism, and agriculture. Contaminated water can lead to a decrease in fish populations,
making it difficult for fishermen to earn a living. It can also affect tourism, as people may
avoid visiting areas with polluted water. Additionally, agricultural productivity can decrease
due to the use of polluted water for irrigation. Proper waste management: Implementing
proper waste management practices can help prevent water pollution. This includes treating
industrial waste before disposal, properly disposing of household waste, and managing
agricultural runoff. Legislation and regulation: Governments can play a significant role in
preventing water pollution by implementing legislation and regulations that limit the number
of pollutants that can be released into water bodies. Public education and awareness:
Educating the public about the importance of clean water and the dangers of water pollution
can help prevent intentional and accidental water pollution. Clean-up efforts: Clean-up
efforts, such as beach cleanups and river cleanups, can help remove pollutants from water
bodies and prevent further damage to the environment.
Learnings:

1. Water pollution is a significant global issue that results from the contamination of

water bodies due to various reasons, including industrial waste disposal, agricultural

runoff, sewage and wastewater discharge, oil spills, and chemical leaks.

2. The results of water pollution can be devastating to both the environment and human

health, leading to harm to aquatic life, human health risks, and economic impact.

Solutions to water pollution include proper waste management, legislation and

regulation, public education and awareness, and clean-up efforts. By implementing

these solutions, we can help prevent water pollution and protect our water resources

for future generations.

3. Pollution can lead to habitat destruction and the loss of aquatic biodiversity. Sensitive

species may be the first to perish, altering the ecosystem balance. The degradation of

water bodies can affect industries such as fishing and tourism, leading to significant

economic losses.