The Impact

Pollution is felt on both a local and global scale. The effects of burning of fossil fuels, accumulation of non-biodegradable items in the ocean, and oil spills are seen on a global level.  Fossil fuels are hydrocarbons formed by natural processes, like: coal, oil or natural gas. We burn so much of these fuels daily that the amount of carbon dioxide given off is having a negative effect on the environment. Certain dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, can take part in further chemical reactions once they are in the atmosphere, creating acid rain and smog (Bradford). The oil spills are invading the ocean along with debris and this has a negative interaction with species inhabiting these areas. Urbanization introduced a lot of the impact felt today by pollution on a local level. Pesticides that are sprayed on plants can run off and contaminate local bodies of water which can lead to eutrophication. Eutrophication is an excess of nutrient salts. This causes a decrease of available oxygen and can cause plant overgrowth and kills animals living in that body of water.  

Bibliography: Pollution Facts and Types of Pollution by Alina Bradford, Web Source: LiveScience
Image Information: Man Spraying Pesticides, Web Source: Pixabay