Economic Activity – Environmental Pollution (i) Name one example of environmental pollution caused by economic activity - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 88 - 2021

One cause of air pollution is the burning of fossil fuels in industrial processes, leading to the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

The effects of air pollution include respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis among the population, as well as environmental impacts like acid rain, which can harm aquatic ecosystems and damage buildings.

Additionally, air pollution contributes to climate change due to the increase in greenhouse gases.

This leads to a rise in global temperatures, affecting weather patterns and resulting in extreme weather events.

It is also important to recognize that vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, are particularly at risk of the harmful impacts of air pollution, leading to increased healthcare costs and reduced quality of life.

To reduce air pollution, implementing stricter emissions regulations for industries and promoting cleaner production technologies are vital.

Another effective strategy is transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, thereby minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.

Public transportation can also be enhanced to reduce vehicle emissions, alongside encouraging the use of electric vehicles.

Educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of air quality and its impact on health can also contribute to reducing pollution levels.

Lastly, reforestation efforts can help in absorbing air pollutants, as trees play a crucial role in cleaning the air and providing a more sustainable environment.