Environment and health

Pollution

When harmful substances are added to the environment, affecting life and nature.

Pollutant

The actual harmful substance.

Water Pollution Causes

Includes sewage dumped into rivers, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff (fertilizers, pesticides).

Air Pollution Causes

Includes smoke from factories/vehicles, burning garbage or fossil fuels, and emission of greenhouse gases.

Effects of Pollutants on Humans

Respiratory problems, cancers, and waterborne diseases.

Effects of Pollutants on the Environment

Kills aquatic life, contributes to acid rain, climate change, and deforestation.

Methods of Controlling Pollution

Includes laws against dumping waste, proper waste disposal, cleaner fuels and energy, tree planting, and sewage treatment plants.

Evaporation

Water turns to vapor in the water cycle.

Condensation

Vapor cools and forms clouds in the water cycle.

Transpiration

Plants release water vapor in the water cycle.

Importance of Boiling Water

Boiling kills bacteria and parasites, purifying the water.

Agar Plate

Used to test water for bacteria by placing a water sample on it; bacterial colonies grow if present.

Sewage Treatment Steps

Includes screening, sedimentation, filtration, and chlorination.

Impact of Deforestation on Water

Reduces natural filtration and can lead to water shortage.

Diseases from Contaminated Water

Includes cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and gastroenteritis.

Impact of Improper Sewage Disposal

Pollutes water sources, spreads diseases, creates bad odors, and harms aquatic ecosystems.

Microorganisms in Sewage Treatment

Break down harmful organic matter into harmless by-products.

Pit Latrine Components

Includes the pit for waste collection, vent pipe, seat/slab, and superstructure for privacy.

Pit Latrine Siting Importance

Should be far from water sources, built in clay soil, and placed downhill from homes.

Pit Latrines in the Caribbean: Advantages

Cheap to build, no need for running water, simple maintenance.

Pit Latrines in the Caribbean: Disadvantages

Can cause groundwater pollution, odors, fly breeding, and health hazards if poorly constructed.

Domestic Refuse Disposal Efficiency

Be ready to analyze chart comparisons of waste disposal methods by population or pollution levels.

Landfill Operations

Waste is layered and compacted, covered daily with soil, and includes drainage and gas collection systems.

Importance of Landfills in the Caribbean

Helps manage solid waste, control disease spread, and supports urban waste management.

Impact of Solid Waste on the Environment

Pollutes water, land, and air; attracts pests; takes up space; and can block drains, causing flooding.

Measures to Control Solid Waste Volume

Includes reducing plastic use, reusing items, and recycling materials like paper, glass, and aluminum.

Biodegradable vs Non-Biodegradable

Biodegradable materials decompose naturally, while non-biodegradable materials do not.

Data Representation Skills

Ability to create bar graphs, pie charts, and tables to interpret pollution and waste production data.