Pollution refers to the presence or the introductions of harmful substances into the environment. In the beginning of 20th century, pollution was hardly noticeable and air and water were still pure. However in the 21st century, various factors such as industrialisation in the entire world, improved standard living of people and overpopulation led to the perceptible effects of pollution. The entire world needs to act swiftly in response to the major environmental threats.
Renewable forms of energy in particular solar, tidal and wind energy can be used instead of unrenewable sources such as crude oil to diminish pollution. Electric car models such as the Tesla whose carbon emission is only 90 grams per kilometre should be utilised as a substitute to polluting car models such as the Mercedes who releases 150 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre averagely. Governments should give incentives such as a decrease in road tax and ‘green loans’ to encourage the use of green energy. As a substitute to crude oil, biodiesel which is a biodegradable fuel can be used in factories and cars. Carbon emission from vehicles is becoming so polluting to the world that the sale of petrol and diesel cars and vans will be illegal in England in 2030.
Recycling is the process of converting waste into reusable materials and objects and it can help on reducing pollution. Manufacturing with recycled materials saves on energy and causes little to no pollution. Energy in the form of electricity can be generated from waste. The process consists of combustion and other biological treatments to derive energy from waste. Thermal energy plants are commonly located in Japan, France and the United States. Afforestation programmes in countries such as India and Iran also help in reducing air pollution and increasing the oxygen level in air.
The United Nations are also developing strategies to combat pollution asnd recently established the Pollution, Health and Environment Unit to address important environmental issues. The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (also known as COP26) was organised in November 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland with an aim to find ways to combat climate chance .Our Prime Minister, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, also attended the conference.
Pollution is present in almost every aspect of the modern society. The use of vehicles to travel causes pollution and even the manufacture of food in factories causes pollution. We can conclude that the problem of pollution cannot be fully eradicated and can only be mitigated.
-MONEERAM AVNISH
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