Pollution Contaminated Resources

Pollution Objectives:

Provide examples of point source and non-point source water pollution.
List common soil contaminants and their possible impacts.

This section introduces some of the pollutants that impact the biosphere. In the first full week of the course we covered some of the pollutants associated with the atmosphere. See if you can recall the answers to these questions.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were thought to be relatively harmless molecules, and were used as refrigerants and propellants (in things like cans of hairspray).

CFCs entered the stratosphere and reacted with _____ molecules, tearing them apart. This resulted in more ultraviolet light that reached the earth’s surface.

Which two molecules can react with water to form acid rain? _ and _

These molecules are produced by natural sources like wildland fires and volcanic eruptions. Human activities release concentrated streams of these gases into the atmosphere, where they can interact with water vapor.

Technology for monitoring air pollutants has become less expensive and more widely available. This is an inexpensive air monitor, some models can send updates and warning to a device.

Water Pollution

We have just taken a look at freshwater ecosystems, including streams, lakes, and wetlands. Many of these bodies of water are impacted by pollution. Water pollution comes in different forms, but all are challenging to address.

Laboratory testing is typically more accurate than home testing as smaller quantities can be measured and equipment is calibrated routinely. However, home water test kits may indicate issues that need further analysis.

Aquatic bioindicators are species that are present in either clear or contaminated bodies of water. The presence (or absence) or certain species gives us an indication of whether our ponds are contaminated by pollutants.

We frequently field this question at the coast. Is the foam and smelly stuff pollution? In the protected bays, it is usually decaying algae. In the tide pools, it is sometimes massive amounts of sperm and eggs produced by the animals that stay clinging on the rocks.

Soil Pollution

Identifying soil pollution is not always as easy as in this photo. In addition to large waste, smaller contaminants can move into the soil. Some pollutants like cadmium, chromium, and lead can be harmful to human and wildlife health at low concentrations.

Home soil tests are typically used to determine whether garden soil has enough nutrients for optimal plant growth. You can also purchase kits to test for possible contaminants, although like water testing, it would be important to verify results through a laboratory. Some future homeowners include soil testing, along with water testing, during the inspection of a property that is for sale.