The main causes of pollution in cities are multifaceted, stemming from various human activities and natural processes.
Major Sources of Urban Pollution
Several key factors contribute to the degradation of air quality and overall pollution levels in urban environments. Here's a breakdown:
- The Burning of Fossil Fuels: Combustion of fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas in power plants, vehicles, and industrial facilities releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
- Industrial Emission: Manufacturing processes often release substantial amounts of pollutants, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and toxic gases.
- Transportation: Vehicles are significant contributors to air pollution in cities, emitting pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM).
- Open Burning of Garbage Waste: The practice of burning garbage releases harmful toxins and particulate matter into the air.
- Indoor Air Pollution: Indoor activities like cooking, heating, and using certain cleaning products can contribute to air pollution, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
- Wildfires: While not always directly within city limits, wildfires can have a significant impact on urban air quality as smoke and pollutants are carried over long distances.
- Microbial Decaying Process: The decomposition of organic matter in landfills and sewage treatment plants can release methane and other greenhouse gases, contributing to air pollution.
These factors, often acting in combination, contribute significantly to the pollution challenges faced by cities worldwide.
