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Pollution

✨ When the Earth is Sick

Pollution is the introduction of substances or forms of energy into the environment that can harm living organisms and natural systems. It can affect the air, water and soil through different sources, such as industrial activities, transportation, agriculture, waste and the excessive use of certain chemical products.

Some pollutants can remain in the environment for long periods and accumulate in living organisms or ecosystems. Pollution can have consequences for human health, biodiversity and the balance of natural environments.

Air pollution may affect breathing, water pollution can damage aquatic life, and soil pollution can reduce the quality of land used by plants and animals.

Reducing pollution requires actions at different levels, including better waste management, cleaner technologies, responsible consumption and the protection of natural areas. Individual choices and collective efforts both contribute to creating healthier environments.

💡 Did you know?

Whales' mask. Did you know whales can be victims of noise pollution? Because of the noise from huge ocean liners and underwater works, they can no longer hear each other singing. They can get lost or become very stressed because they use sound to navigate the ocean's darkness.

Missing stars. If you live in a big city, you may have noticed that very few stars are visible at night. This is because of light pollution: streetlights and signs light up the sky so much that starlight is 'drowned'. You have to go to the countryside, far from lights, to see the Milky Way!

Traveling pollution. Pollution does not stop at country borders. For example, if a river is polluted in one country, it carries its waste into the sea that belongs to everyone. Similarly, smoke clouds can be pushed by wind over thousands of kilometers. That's why all countries must agree.