Overview

Environmental pollution is not a recent phenomenon, but it continues to be the greatest threat to humanity and the main factor in environmental sickness and mortality. The primary causes of environmental pollution on a worldwide scale are human activities such as urbanization, industry, mining, and exploration. Although awareness and stricter legislation in developed countries have helped to a greater extent in protecting their environment, both developed and developing countries share this burden. Despite the focus on pollution at a global level, its influence is still felt because of its serious long-term effects. This chapter analyses the several types of pollution—air, water, and soil—as well as their origins and effects. It also presents methods for reducing pollution for a healthy environment and future generations