Basics
What is pollution?
The process of contaminating the environment by introducing harmful substances.
What is air pollution?
Contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by harmful agents.
What is water pollution?
When rivers, lakes, or oceans get dirty with chemicals or germs.
What is land pollution?
The deterioration of the earth’s land surfaces.
Give one way to reduce air pollution in daily life.
Use public transport, plant trees, or reduce car use.
Name two main types of pollution.
Air - Water - Land - Noise
What are two causes of air pollution?
Cars and trucks releasing smoke; factories burning coal, oil, and gas, burning trash.
Give one example of a cause of water pollution.
Plastic waste, factory chemicals, or untreated sewage.
Name one cause of land pollution.
Garbage, pesticides, or electronic waste.
Give one way to spread the word about pollution.
Social media, posters, school campaigns.
What does “smog” stand for?
Smoke + fog
What role does transportation play in air pollution?
It releases greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
How does water pollution affect marine life?
It kills fish and destroys coral reefs.
What is one effect of land pollution on the environment?
Infertile land or loss of biodiversity.
What is one effect of pollution on human skin or eyes?
Irritation caused by chemicals.
Why is pollution considered a global problem?
Because it spreads through air and water, not staying in one place.
What are two health effects of air pollution?
Asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, or heart disease.
What human health problems can dirty water cause? Name one!
Diarrhea and stomach infections.
What type of waste includes batteries and old phones?
Electronic waste (e-waste).
Name one effect of pollution on climate.
Global warming, melting glaciers, or stronger storms.
What year had a cholera epidemic in New York due to water pollution?
1932
Name one government action that can reduce air pollution.
Creating stricter laws, promoting clean energy, or public transport improvements.
What type of water pollution most affects sea animals?
Plastic pollution.
What is one way farming can cause land pollution?
Using too many pesticides and fertilizers.
Why is reducing pollution important for future generations?
To protect human health, biodiversity, and the planet’s climate.