Pollution and Conservation of the Environment Chapter Notes | Be an Explorer 5: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets - Class 5 PDF Download

Introduction

• The environment is where we live, consisting of living (plants and animals) and non-living (air, water, soil) things.
• Pollution occurs when harmful substances, known as pollutants, are added to the environment, affecting health and survival.

Types of Pollution

Water Pollution

• Harmful substances enter water bodies like rivers and lakes.
• Causes: oil spills, bathing, washing, storms.
• Effects: diseases (typhoid, dysentery), harm to marine life, water unfit for consumption.

Air Pollution

• Contamination of air with harmful gases, smoke, dust.
• Causes: vehicle emissions, industrial activities, forest fires.
• Effects: respiratory issues, irritation, acid rain, smog.

Land Pollution

• Contamination of soil by chemicals, pesticides, plastics.
• Causes: improper waste disposal, use of non-biodegradable materials.
• Effects: poor crop growth, health problems, ecosystem harm.

Noise Pollution

• Loud and irritating sounds from vehicles, industries, fireworks.
• Effects: stress, sleeplessness, damage to hearing.

Wastes and Their Types

Domestic Wastes

• Fruits, vegetable peels, paper, plastic, sewage.
• Improper disposal leads to breeding grounds for diseases.

Industrial Wastes

• Chemicals, paints, oils, metals.
• Result from industrial activities, causing pollution.

Commercial Wastes

• Food wastes, plastic bottles, wrappers.
• Generated from commercial activities, contributing to pollution.

Agricultural Wastes

• Husks, straw, irrigation water with pesticides.
• Agricultural activities produce waste affecting the environment.

Types of Wastes and Management

Biodegradable Wastes

• Easily decomposed (fruits, vegetable peels).
• Decomposed by micro-organisms, do not harm the environment.

Non-biodegradable Wastes

• Do not easily dissolve (plastics, metals).
• Remain in the environment for a long time, causing pollution.

Waste Management

• Landfill, burning, composting, and dumping.
• Proper waste management prevents health issues and pollution.

Conservation of the Environment

Three Rs - Reduce, Recycle, Reuse

• Reduce: Acquire only what you can use.
• Recycle: Process waste materials.
• Reuse: Make something useful in a different way.

Protecting Our Environment

• Plant more trees.
• Stop deforestation.
• Practice rainwater harvesting.
• Avoid misuse of natural resources.
• Use solar cells and eco-friendly fuels.
• Reduce, Recycle, Reuse.

Conclusion

• The environment needs protection for human existence.
• Adopting the three Rs and being mindful of our actions can contribute to a healthier and safer environment.