Water pollution is a problem for humans and wildlife - AQA - GCSE Biology: Combined Science - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 2

The need to produce more food for the growing population leads to the use of fertilizers and pesticides on farms. When these substances run off into water bodies, they cause eutrophication, which again leads to algae growth and subsequent oxygen depletion in rivers and lakes.

Industrial activities often lead to the discharge of toxic chemicals into water bodies. Factories and power stations may release materials that build up in food chains and can cause harm to humans and wildlife. Such chemicals may disrupt hormonal systems and lead to various health issues.

Radiation leaks from nuclear facilities can also contaminate rivers, lakes, and seas, posing risks to both aquatic ecosystems and human health. This contamination can result from direct spills or improper disposal of radioactive materials.

Littering, such as disposing of plastics into rivers and lakes, contributes to pollution. Many plastics are not biodegradable and accumulate in aquatic environments, causing harm to wildlife through ingestion and entanglement.

The consequences of these pollution sources lead to substantial harm to organisms living in rivers, lakes, and seas. Aquatic life suffers from oxygen depletion, toxic exposure, and habitat destruction, ultimately impacting biodiversity and ecosystem health.