Section 5-2 Caring for the Environment 115
Air Pollution
People must have clean air to breathe and remain healthy. Air
pollution is linked to respiratory ailments, such as bronchitis, asthma,
lung cancer, and other lung diseases. Pollutants are dangerous because
they build up over time and may stay in the air. Long-term exposure
to air pollution is especially harmful to young children, older adults,
and people who are ill. Limiting the volume of pollutants that become
airborne is the focus of many nations.
Smoking cigarettes and using pesticides also cause airborne
pollutants, but the burning of fossil fuels causes the biggest problem.
Industries and consumers use fossil fuels to run cars, produce heat
and light, and power tools and equipment. Burning these fuels creates
airborne pollutants, particularly carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.
Th e Th inning Ozone Layer
Closely related to air pollution is the apparent weakening of the
natural ozone layer in the stratosphere. The ozone layer fi lters ultraviolet
radiation so less reaches the earth. Scientists think the layer is thinning,
thus allowing more solar radiation to penetrate. Ozone-depleting
chemicals are now banned in many countries.
Acid Rain
Acid rain is a term used to describe acids that fall from the
atmosphere in either a wet or dry form. The acids are created from the
emissions of electric power plants and motor vehicles, 5-4. The chief
cause is sulfur dioxide. Acid rain can pollute rivers, damage the surface
of cars and buildings, and harm or kill plant and aquatic life. Efforts are
underway to limit the use of the chemicals causing acid rain.
Water Pollution
Water pollution is the
accidental or careless addition
of waste materials to rivers,
lakes, oceans, and underground
water supplies. Industrial
wastes, sewage, and agricultural
chemicals are the main causes.
In recent years, oil tankers have
spilled their loads into ocean
waters. Some industrial plants
have discharged lead, mercury,
and other toxic waste. Untreated
sewage causes problems in
areas with inadequate sanitation
systems. Rains wash agricultural
5-4
The generation of
electricity is a major cause
of acid rain.
Living
Green
Work with your family to set
up a recycling area in your
home or garage. Designate
areas for paper, plastics,
glass, metal, and electronics.
This will keep items organized
until they can be disposed
of in an environmentally
responsible way.