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
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