CSEC
HSB
Section E
THE IMPACT OF HEALTH
PRACTICES ON THE
ENVIRONMENT
What are some examples of pollution?
Domestic
Agricultural
Industrial
Things that may not be obvious
Toxic Heavy Metals
Soil erosion can cause
pollution
Lead
●
Kidney damage
●
Miscarraige and reduce
sperm count
Mercury
●
Blindness
●
Damages nervous system
Soil and fertilizer can run off
easily in rivers and ponds which
Did you know algae need
oxygen and love fertilizer?
Section E
Define pollution
Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment.
Define pollutant
A substance released into the environment due to natural or human
activity which adversely affects the environment
1.0
identify pollutants in
the environment
Section E
●
●
●
●
improper disposal of household waste,
overuse of household chemicals,
poor maintenance of vehicles
improper disposal of batteries and
electronics
carbon monoxide
&
nitrogen oxides
Vestibulum
●
●
●
lum al
bu ur
sti gltue
Vericu
n
Ag co
1.0
Types of pollution
Pesticides and fertilizers
Livestock waste
Soil erosion can pollute waterways
InVdestib
u
cou
ngstrlium
ue al
Domestic
congue
●
●
●
●
●
Air pollution
Water pollution
Soil pollution
Noise pollution
Thermal pollution
Section E
2.0
Discuss the causes
of water and air
pollution
Improper disposal of household waste: burning plastic waste releases toxic
gases into the air.
2.
Overuse of household chemicals: The use of household chemicals, such as
cleaning agents, pesticides, and air fresheners, can release harmful chemicals
into the air and waterways, causing pollution.
3.
Poor maintenance of vehicles: Cars and other vehicles release pollutants into
the air, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
4.
Improper disposal of batteries and electronics: Discarding batteries and
electronic devices improperly can result in the release of heavy metals and
other toxic substances into the environment.
Ve
sti
con bulum
gu
e
1.
lum
bu e
sti
Ve ongu
c
1.0
Types of pollution
Vestibulum
Domestic
congue
Vestibulum
Ag
ri
cocultural
Section E
1.0
Types of pollution
2.0
Discuss the causes
of water and air
pollution
ngue
1.
Pesticides and fertilizers: Chemicals are overused or improperly applied, they
can seep into soil, groundwater, and surface water, polluting the environment
and harming wildlife and cause eutrophication and algae blooms.
2.
Animal waste: Large-scale livestock operations produce vast amounts of animal
waste, which can contaminate nearby waterways with harmful bacteria.
3.
Soil erosion: Poor farming practices such as overgrazing and deforestation can
lead to soil erosion, which can degrade soil quality and pollute nearby waterways
with sediment.
4.
Farm equipment emissions: The use of diesel-powered farm equipment can
emit pollutants into the air, such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur
dioxide.
Ve
stibulum
Inco
dung
stue
rial
Section E
1.0
Types of pollution
2.0
Discuss the causes
of water and air
pollution
1.
Air pollution: Factories and power plants emit pollutants into the air, such as
particulate matter, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides which can have harmful
effects on human health and the environment.
2.
Water pollution: Industries discharge wastewater containing chemicals, heavy
metals, and other pollutants into waterways, which can harm aquatic life and
make water unsafe for human use.
3.
Soil pollution: Industrial activities can result in soil contamination, particularly
through the disposal of hazardous waste and spills.
4.
Noise pollution: Industrial machinery and equipment can generate excessive
noise that can have negative impacts on human health and the environment.
5.
Thermal pollution: Some industrial processes generate heat that is released
into the environment, which can cause thermal pollution in nearby waterways,
leading to changes in the ecosystem.
Eutrophication
Eutrophication is a process that occurs in bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, where
excessive nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, accumulate and stimulate the growth of algae. This
is known as algal bloom, can have several negative effects on the ecosystem
1.
Fertilisers used in farming runoff into nearby water causing
an increase in nutrient levels (mainly nitrogen and
phosphorous) which will cause algal blooms.
2.
The algae may use up all the oxygen in the water, leaving
none for other marine life. This results in the death of many
aquatic organisms such as fish, which need the oxygen in the
water to live.
3.
The bloom of algae may also block sunlight from marine
plants under the water surface (hence photosynthesis is
disrupted).
4.
Some algae even produce toxins that are harmful to higher
forms of life.
How can pollution affect the environment? See if you match the
picture(s) with the missing words
Wa____
Con________
Bio________ty
Loss
So_______
_______ate
Degr__________
Ch________
Things that may not be obvious examples of pollution around us
Nitrogen
Oxides
Sulphur
Dioxide
Particle
Matter
Lead and Mercury
chest pain, coughing,
throat irritation, and
congestion
Ground level
Ozone
Section E
Effects on Human Beings:
1.
3.0
Describe the effects
of pollutants on
human beings and
the environment
2.
Respiratory Problems: Polluted air can cause respiratory problems,
including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath and aggravate
asthma
.
Cardiovascular Problems: Exposure to air pollution can increase the
risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes.
This is because pollutants can cause inflammation and damage to
blood vessels.
3.
Cancer: Some pollutants are known to be carcinogenic, meaning they
can cause cancer in humans. Examples include benzene, which is
found in gasoline, and arsenic, which can be found in water sources.
4.
Reproductive and Developmental Problems: For example,
exposure to lead, mercury and nitrogen dioxide can impair fertility and
increase the risk of miscarriage.
Section E
Effects on the Environment:
1.
Water Contamination: Pollutants such as industrial waste and
sewage can contaminate water sources, harming aquatic life and
ecosystems. This can also make water unsafe for human
consumption.
3.0
2.
Soil Degradation: Pollutants can degrade soil quality, reducing its
fertility and making it more difficult to grow crops.
Describe the effects
of pollutants the
environment
3.
Biodiversity Loss: Pollution can harm wildlife populations and
ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and potentially leading to the
extinction of certain species.
4.
Climate Change: Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, which
are released through the burning of fossil fuels, can contribute to
climate change, causing rising temperatures, sea level rise, and more
frequent extreme weather events.
How can we deal with pollution?
Po
l
eve lution
pro ryb
i
ble ody s
m e ’s
I am whe xcep
t
pol n
luti
ng
!
Section E
There are various methods for controlling pollution, and they can be
broadly classified into two categories:
4.0
Explain the methods
of controlling
pollution
1.
prevention
2.
treatment
Prevention
Section E
1.
Regulation and Enforcement: Governments can set
regulations and enforce environmental laws to prevent
pollution. This can include setting limits on emissions,
mandating pollution control technology, and issuing fines or
penalties for non-compliance.
2.
Education and Awareness: Raising public awareness
about pollution and its harmful effects can encourage
individuals and businesses to take action to reduce their
environmental impact.
3.
Green Technology and Innovation: Developing and
implementing green technologies, such as renewable energy
sources and electric vehicles, can reduce pollution and
dependence on fossil fuels.
4.0
Explain the methods
of controlling
pollution
Treatment
Section E
1.
Chemical and Biological Treatment:
Treating polluted water and soil with
chemicals or bacteria that can break down
or remove pollutants can help to clean up
contaminated environments.
2.
Physical Treatment: Technologies such
as filters and scrubbers can remove
pollutants from air emissions.
3.
Waste Management and Recycling:
Properly managing and disposing of
waste, and encouraging recycling and
composting, can prevent pollution and
reduce the demand for new materials.
4.0
Explain the methods
of controlling
pollution
scrubber
How can we purify polluted water to make it drinkable at home?
So very
thirsty!
Things that may not be obvious -
What is Agar?
Oh boy oh boy yummy
wummy agar!
gimmie gimmie
Condensation
Section E
Transpiration
Evaporation
Precipitation
Respiration
Runoff
5.0
Describe the water
cycle
Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy
1
Section E
Term
Definition
Evaporation
the process of turning from liquid into vapour.
Precipitation
Precipitation is water released from clouds in the form of rain or snow
Transpiration
when plants take up liquid water from the soil and release water vapor
into the air from their leaves.
Runoff
the part of the water cycle that flows over land as surface water instead
of being absorbed into groundwater or evaporating.
Condensation
the process by which water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water
Respiration
the process that all living things go through to create the energy they
need to live
5.0
Describe the water
cycle
Section E
6.0
There are several simple ways of purifying water in the
home:
1.
Boiling: Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least
one minute, then let it cool down before consuming.
2.
Filtration: There are many types of water filters
available on the market, such as activated carbon
filters, reverse osmosis filters, and ceramic filters.
These filters can remove impurities and contaminants
from the water.
3.
Chlorination: Chlorination involves adding chlorine to
the water. This method can effectively kill bacteria
and viruses in the water. The recommended amount
is 1/8 teaspoon (or 8 drops) of bleach per gallon of
water. Let it sit for 30 minutes before consuming.
4.
Distillation: Distillation is a process that involves
boiling water and then condensing the steam back
into water. This method can effectively remove
impurities and contaminants from the water.
Describe simple
ways of purifying
water in the home
Section E
7.0
test water for
bacteria
Agar is used to test for bacteria because it provides a solid surface on which bacteria can
grow. Agar is a nutrient-rich substance that contains many of the essential nutrients that
bacteria need to grow, such as carbohydrates, amino acids, and vitamins. When bacteria
are introduced to agar, they can feed on these nutrients and grow into visible colonies that
can be observed and studied
Section E
Water
from
Rivers
8.0
describe the
processes involved
in large scale water
purification
Sedimentation
tank
Fine sand filter
Screen Sieve - Prevents garbage and big particles from going into the system
Course sand filter - Removes medium size particles
Alum - makes light particles stick together so they become heavier and drop to the bottom of the sedimentation
tank
Fine sand filter - removes very small particles in the water
Chlorine - Kills bacteria and viruses
Storage tank - Stores the purified water
Section E
Human activities can have a significant impact on water supplies in a number of ways.
1.
Pollution: Human activities such as industrialization, agriculture, and domestic can lead
to the release of pollutants into water supplies, which can make the water unsafe for
human consumption or use.
2.
Overuse: Increased demand for water for activities such as irrigation, industrial
processes, and domestic use can lead to overuse and depletion of water supplies,
particularly in areas where water resources are already scarce.
3.
Climate change: Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation can
contribute to climate change, which can alter precipitation patterns, cause droughts and
floods, and affect the availability of water supplies.
4.
Damming and diversion: The construction of dams and diversion of rivers for
hydroelectric power generation or irrigation can alter natural water flows, impacting
downstream communities and ecosystems.
5.
Groundwater depletion: Over-pumping of groundwater for agricultural, industrial, and
domestic use can lead to the depletion of underground water reserves, impacting the
availability of water supplies.
9.0
discuss the impact
of human activities
on water supplies
Section E
Contaminated water is detrimental to human beings because it can contain
harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and other pollutants
that can cause illness or disease when ingested or come into contact with the
skin.
10.0
explain why
contaminated water
is detrimental to
human beings
Drinking contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses such as
diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, which can be particularly dangerous for
young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune
systems.
Contaminated water can also lead to long-term health effects such as cancer,
developmental problems, and neurological disorders.
Proper sewage
disposal practices
Proper sewage disposal practices
Section E
1.
Use of septic tanks: In areas where there is no access to a municipal sewage
system, septic tanks can be used to treat wastewater. The septic tank collects and
digests solid waste and allows the liquid to drain into a drain field for further
treatment.
2.
Proper maintenance of septic tanks: Septic tanks need to be regularly emptied
to prevent the buildup of sludge, which can cause blockages and overflow.
3.
Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet, such as plastics,
which can clog sewage treatment systems.
4.
Use of wastewater treatment plants: In areas where there is a high population
density, wastewater treatment plants can be used to treat sewage before it is
discharged into the environment. This involves a series of physical, chemical, and
biological processes to remove pollutants and make the water safe for discharge.
11.0
distinguish between
proper and
improper sewage
disposal practices
Section E
11.0
distinguish between
proper and improper
sewage disposal
practices
12.0
explain the impact of
improper sewage
disposal practices
Improper sewage disposal practices
1.
Open defecation: This is the practice of defecating in the open, without using a
toilet or latrine. It is a common practice in many rural areas and can lead to the
contamination of soil and water sources with fecal matter.
2.
Discharge of untreated sewage into water bodies: This is when sewage is
discharged into rivers, lakes, or oceans without being treated. This can lead to
the contamination of water sources with disease-causing pathogens.
3.
Improper septic tank maintenance: If they are not properly maintained, they
can overflow and contaminate the surrounding soil and water sources.
4.
Improper disposal of solid waste: Solid waste, such as plastics and other
non-biodegradable materials, can block sewage pipes and cause backups,
leading to the overflow of raw sewage into the environment.
Section E
13.0
Biological filter / Trickling Filter method
The process works by allowing wastewater to flow over a bed of rocks or plastic
media, which provides a large surface area for microorganisms to grow on. As the
wastewater trickles through the media, the microorganisms on the surface of the
rocks or plastic break down the organic matter in the wastewater, converting it
into simpler compounds.
compare the
treatment of sewage
by biological filter /
trickling filter and
activated sludge
methods
3
Section E
13.0
compare the
treatment of sewage
by biological filter /
trickling filter and
activated sludge
methods
Activated Sludge method
Activated sludge is a mixture of microorganisms that are capable of breaking
down organic matter in the wastewater. The wastewater and activated sludge are
mixed together in an aeration tank as air is pumped in.. The air provides oxygen
to the microorganisms, allowing them to break down the organic matter more
efficiently. .
Section E
Activated Sludge vs biological filter / trickling filter
Trickling filters are typically simpler, cheaper and require less energy to operate
compared to activated sludge systems.
13.0
compare the
treatment of sewage
by biological filter /
trickling filter and
activated sludge
methods
Trickling filters are also easier to operate and maintain and require less operator
attention than activated sludge systems.
However, activated sludge systems are more effective in removing pollutants and
can be operated in a wider range of temperatures than trickling filters.
Hey did you know not
everyone has the same
kind of toilets
Wowww I’ve never seen
one like this before !!!
This is going to be a great
vacation !
Section E
Galvanize roof
Wire mesh - keeps pest out
Mesh Vent - allows air
circulate and keep pest out
Ventilation pipe - allows gases
produced to escape
Lid - keep
pest out
14.0
Concrete base - to provide
stability and keep large pest out
relate the parts of a
pit latrine to their
functions
Cement lining - to present sides form
caving in
at least 3m deep
Deep pit - takes long to fill and can last
for years
Porous ground - allows
liquid to drain away
6
Section E
It is recommended to excavate the latrine at a significant
distance from water sources such as wells, streams, ponds, or
rivers to prevent pollution caused by waste disposal.
Additionally, the latrine should be placed at a lower elevation than
any nearby water sources.
15.0
explain why the
siting of pit latrines
is important
To avoid unpleasant odors and the risk of food contamination,
the latrine should not be located too close to residential areas.
Section E
Advantages
Low cost: Pit latrines are relatively
inexpensive to build and maintain.
Easy to construct: Pit latrines can be built
quickly and with readily available materials
16.0
assess the use of pit
latrines in the
Caribbean Advantages and
disadvantages
Water conservation: Pit latrines do not
require water for flushing,
Nutrient-rich fertilizer: The waste
collected in pit latrines can be used as a
nutrient-rich fertilizer
Disadvantages
Maintenance: Pit latrines require regular
maintenance and cleaning, as the pit can fill
up quickly.
Odor: Without proper ventilation, pit latrines
can emit unpleasant odors
Contamination: If not constructed properly,
pit latrines can contaminate nearby water
sources
Insects and rodents: Pit latrines can
attract insects and rodents, which can
spread disease
Safety risks: There is a risk of collapse or
injury when accessing or cleaning pit
latrines
7
Hey where does all our
garbage go?
Section E
17.0
evaluate the
efficiency of the
methods of domestic
refuse disposal
(Analysis and
interpretation of
data)
Domestic refuse disposal typically involves collecting waste from
households and transporting it to designated disposal facilities such as
landfills or recycling centers.
Leachate - is a liquid that is formed when rainwater, groundwater, or other
liquids come into contact with waste materials in a landfill. The liquid then
percolates through the waste, picking up various contaminants and pollutants
Section E
groundwater
monitoring
system
Treatment
plant for
leachate
Machinery
compacts
waste
Methane
storage
groundwater
monitoring
system
18.0
Plastic lining
describe the
operations at a
landfill
(Include a
description of a
landfill)
Layer of clay
(groundwater direction)
Soil bacteria and fungi decompose the organic components of the rubbish into carbon
dioxide and methane.
At the end of the day the landfilled is covered with 6 inches of compressed dirt
Section E
18.0
A landfill is permanently capped with a plastic liner when it is full. After it’s
capped, the landfill is covered with two feet of soil. Then, vegetation (normally
grass and plants without penetrating roots) is planted on top to prevent soil
erosion due to rainfall and wind.
Afterwards things can be built on top of it like parks, buildings and even golf
courses.
vegetation
describe the
operations at a
landfill
(Include a
description of a
landfill)
Plastic Liner
The operation of a landfill involves several steps:
Section E
1.
Site selection and design: A suitable location is chosen based on factors such as
proximity to the waste source, geology, hydrogeology, and environmental regulations.
2.
Waste collection: Waste is collected and transported to the landfill. The waste is usually
separated into different categories such as organic waste, recyclable materials, and hazardous
waste.
18.0
describe the
operations at a
landfill
(Include a
description of a
landfill)
3.
Landfill cell construction: The landfill is constructed by excavating a hole in the ground
and lining it with clay or plastic liner. This prevents leachate from escaping into the surrounding
environment.
4.
Waste disposal: The waste is then deposited in layers and compacted to reduce its
volume. At the end of the day, the layer is covered with soil or other materials to reduce odors
and prevent pests from accessing the waste.
5.
Leachate collection and treatment: A system is put in place to collect the leachate
that is produced by the waste. The leachate is then treated to remove contaminants before
being discharged into the environment.
6.
Gas collection and management: As waste decomposes, it produces methane gas,
which can be collected to protect the environment and used as a source of energy.
7.
Landfill closure and aftercare: Once the landfill is full, it is closed and covered with a
final layer of soil, vegetation and plastic liner. The site is then monitored and maintained to
ensure that it does not pose a risk to the environment or public health.
Section E
Landfills are important in the Caribbean for several
reasons:
1.
Waste management: Landfills provide a designated location for the
disposal of waste generated by households, businesses, and industries
and prevents the spread of diseases.
19.0
discuss the
importance of
landfills in the
Caribbean
2.
Economic benefits: Landfills can provide economic benefits through
the creation of jobs.
3.
Environmental protection: Properly operated landfills can help
protect the environment by preventing the uncontrolled release of waste
and contaminants into the environment.
Section E
Solid waste has a significant impact on the environment.
1.
Land pollution: Improper disposal of solid waste can lead to the
contamination of soil and land.
2.
Water pollution: Solid waste can also contaminate water sources, such
as rivers and groundwater.
3.
synthetic materials, can release toxic fumes into the air. This can contribute to
air pollution and have negative impacts on human health.
20.0
impact of solid
waste on the
environment
Air pollution: Burning of solid waste, particularly plastics and other
4.
Climate change: The decomposition of organic waste in landfills releases
methane gas, which is a potent greenhouse gas.
5.
Wildlife impacts: Improper disposal of solid waste can have negative
impacts on wildlife, particularly if animals mistake the waste for food or
become entangled in it.
6.
Aesthetic impacts: The presence of solid waste, particularly litter, can
have negative impacts on the aesthetics of an area, reducing its appeal to
tourists and residents alike.
Section E
21.0
analyse
measures used to
control solid waste
volume
(Reduce, reuse
and recycle,
examples of
recyclable
materials)
Reduce focuses on reducing the amount of waste generated in the first place
●
●
●
e.g.
Use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs to reduce energy consumption.
Choose products with minimal packaging or packaging that is recyclable.
Print double-sided to reduce paper consumption.
Reuse refers to using a product multiple times for the same or similar purposes before
discarding it.
e.g.
●
Use refillable water bottles and coffee cups instead of disposable ones.
●
Use old jars and containers for storage or as flower vases.
●
Repurpose old clothes into rags or cleaning cloths.
Recycle involves breaking down materials and turning them into new products.
●
●
●
e.g.
Recycle paper, plastics, metals, and glass according to local recycling guidelines.
Look for products made from recycled materials, such as recycled paper or plastic.
Compost organic waste, such as food scraps and yard waste.
Section E
The main difference between biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials is their
ability to break down naturally in the environment. Biodegradable materials can be
broken down by natural processes, while non-biodegradable materials persist in the
environment and can cause pollution and harm to wildlife and ecosystems
Examples of biodegradable materials include:
22.0
distinguish between
the terms
biodegradable
and
non-biodegradable
●
●
●
●
Food waste, such as fruits, vegetables, and leftovers
Paper products, such as newspapers, cardboard boxes, and paper bags
Natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, and silk
Biodegradable plastics, such as those made from cornstarch
Examples of non-biodegradable materials include:
●
●
●
●
plastic bags, water bottles, and food packaging
Metals, such as aluminum cans and steel containers
Glass products, such as bottles and jars
Styrofoam products, such as packing peanuts and takeout containers
4