Unusual Environmental Problems
Identify any unusual environmental problems (for example: heavy metals due to mining, water pollution due to farming or industry) in your neighborhood and research possible health effects of potential environmental hazards in the area. Who is at risk, what is the environmental hazard, where does this hazard come from and what health problems caused by the pollutant? Before you get started, review the terminology.
Terms:
- Environmental Hazard: Something (chemical, physical or microbiological) with the potential to cause harm; however, it does not always put you at risk.
- Risk: The combination of the probability or frequency, of occurrence of the identified hazard and the magnitude of the consequences of the occurrence.
- Risk assessment: Risk assessment is the process of estimating the potential impact of a chemical, physical, or microbiological hazard on a specified human population or ecological system under a specific set of conditions and for a certain time frame.
Examples of environmental hazards and their associated health effects:
- Heavy Metal Contamination from Mining:
- Environmental Hazard: Heavy metals (such as lead, mercury, cadmium) released into the environment during mining activities.
- Source: Mining operations and improper disposal of mining waste.
- Health Problems: Heavy metal exposure can lead to various health issues, including neurological disorders, kidney damage, respiratory problems, developmental issues in children, and an increased risk of cancer.
- At-Risk Population: People living near mining sites, mine workers, and communities reliant on water sources affected by mining activities.
- Water Pollution from Industrial Activities:
- Environmental Hazard: Water pollution caused by the discharge of industrial effluents containing chemicals and toxins into water bodies.
- Source: Industrial operations and inadequate wastewater treatment systems.
- Health Problems: Contaminated water can result in gastrointestinal illnesses, skin diseases, reproductive problems, and increased risk of certain cancers. Chemical pollutants may also accumulate in aquatic life, posing risks to those who consume contaminated fish or shellfish.
- At-Risk Population: Communities located downstream from industrial areas, individuals reliant on contaminated water sources for drinking or bathing, and workers exposed to industrial effluents.
- Soil and Water Pollution from Agricultural Practices:
- Environmental Hazard: Soil and water contamination due to the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides in agriculture.
- Source: Improper application and runoff of agricultural chemicals into soil and water bodies.
- Health Problems: Exposure to contaminated soil and water can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, skin irritations, endocrine disruptions, and potential developmental effects. Certain pesticides have been linked to neurological disorders and an increased risk of certain cancers.
- At-Risk Population: Agricultural workers, individuals living near agricultural areas, and communities reliant on contaminated water sources for drinking or irrigation.