How do humans affect the physical environment in various ways?

  (Asian independent)    Human actions have led to significant environmental degradation and pollution globally. The global community is grappling with the challenges posed by increasing temperatures. The scarcity of water is adversely impacting wildlife, forests, and human populations alike. On June 5, 1974, the United Nations proclaimed “World Environment Day” to enhance awareness regarding the detrimental impacts of pollution on water, forests, land, and air. The event marks the 50th anniversary today.

More than 143 nations engaged in activities and events on June 5 to promote awareness regarding environmental protection. These encompass governmental bodies, social service organizations, and educational institutions. Annually, UNEP designates a theme for Environment Day globally. The central theme for 2025 is “Liberating the Earth from Plastic Pollution.” Social service organizations, environmental advocates, and educational institutions will collaborate to raise awareness regarding the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on the health of our planet. Environmental advocates are actively working to disseminate this message.

Earth stands out as the most fortunate planet in the universe, being the sole location where we can sustain a healthy existence. Humans, fauna, avifauna, flora, microorganisms, and aquatic organisms have all undergone a seamless evolution in this environment. The essence of human existence stands as nature’s most profound offering.

Human-induced pollution in the atmosphere is significantly impairing the respiratory health of both humans and wildlife. The increase in hazardous gases such as nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and chlorofluorocarbons is contributing to a rise in health issues, including colds, coughs, asthma, and significant eye problems. A recent health study indicates a rising prevalence of asthma and other respiratory diseases among children around the globe. Air pollution has significantly impacted public health.

We have observed two significant impacts on Earth’s water resources today. Initially, water levels decline, followed by a deterioration in water quality. Seventy-five percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water; however, a mere 0.007% of this resource is suitable for human consumption, as 97.5% of it consists of saltwater. Water is only beneficial for human use 2.5% of the time. The subsurface reservoir comprises 70% ice and 29.003% water within the soil matrix. Discharges from factories and sewage systems contaminate even potable water, making it unclean and discoloured, along with unpleasant odours. Individuals residing near its banks face the potential threat of developing cancer, black jaundice, kidney disease, and various other incurable ailments.
The planet is cultivating crops that are detrimental to our well-being. The introduction of pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, industrial waste, radioactive elements, and various other chemicals has significantly compromised the integrity of our food chain. A significant number of the 1.7 million species on Earth are facing extinction due to pollution.

Pollution contributes to global warming across the planet. The rapid progression of global warming is likely to result in the melting of glaciers, leading to a significant rise in sea levels. This phenomenon poses a serious threat to millions of individuals residing in coastal areas.

The primary driver of pollution is population growth. While automobiles have accelerated our lives and provided numerous advantages, they also contribute to a range of significant health issues. The process of urbanization has resulted in environmental pollution due to the accumulation of waste, dirt, plastic, and particularly non-biodegradable polythene bags. Air conditioners emit significant amounts of chlorofluorocarbons, which contribute to the degradation of the ozone layer. The depletion of the ozone layer is contributing to an increase in incurable diseases and adversely affecting public health.
Loud auto mufflers are becoming increasingly prevalent in Canada, causing noise pollution and disrupting people’s peaceful surroundings. These vehicles exacerbate noise pollution, which adversely affects both physical health and mental well-being. Not only that, but noise pollution also significantly impairs the learning capabilities of children, individuals with health issues, and the elderly. Many cities are actively cracking down on cars with modified or illegal mufflers by giving out fines and other penalties for breaking noise laws. Enforcement efforts include regular blitzes targeting noisy vehicles and increased penalties for street racing and stunt driving.

While we are increasingly concerned about dust and pollution within our living spaces, we often overlook the diminishing and increasingly contaminated natural resources around us. Neglecting environmental stewardship will lead to catastrophic consequences for future generations.

We have set off the environmental alarm. It is still possible for us to preserve the environment. Install factory chimneys, increase tree planting, eliminate plastic bags, equip vehicles with specialized silencers, and utilize unleaded fuel. The effectiveness of Canada’s numerous environmental laws hinges on their honest and meticulous enforcement, free from political motivations or favouritism. The curriculum ought to prioritize environmental considerations whenever deemed essential. Failure to address pollution will inevitably lead to its exacerbation.