Environmental Issues and Problems: Wastes and Pollution

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to environmental pollution, types of pollutants, and their effects, crucial for understanding environmental issues.

Pollution

The contamination of the environment by humans adding any substance or energy, resulting in harmful effects on human life and the environment.

Pollutants

Substances or contaminants introduced into the environment that can produce harmful or toxic effects.

Eutrophication

The excessive nutrient enrichment of water that leads to algal blooms and ecological imbalance.

Bioaccumulation

The gradual build-up of pollutants in a living organism over time.

Biomagnification

The process of gradual increase in concentration of a substance in successive members of a food chain.

Soil Pollution

The presence of pollutants or contaminants in soil at high enough concentrations to pose a risk to human health and the environment.

Air Pollution

Occurs when there is a release of air pollutants in the atmosphere from sources such as industries and automobiles.

Solid Waste

Discarded materials that can be classified as non-hazardous or hazardous, including construction debris and household waste.

Hazardous Waste

Waste that presents an unreasonable risk to health and safety, including medical waste and industrial residues.

Water Pollution

Happens when toxic substances enter water bodies, leading to the degradation of water quality and posing health risks.