Here is a list of the main types of pollution in rivers and seas. A description is given next to each:
Agricultural run-off
- Nitrates and phosphate fertilisers cause algae to grow rapidly.
- The algae uses up all the oxygen as it is rapidly growing.
- This leaves no oxygen left for plants and animals.
- As well as this problem, pesticides reaching rivers and seas can kill animal life.
Industrial discharge
- This could be to blame for the general decline in the number of mammals (mainly Wales and dolphins) and also deformed fish.
- Industrial discharge also contains metals such as mercury which can have effects on the nervous system and lead to kidney disease.
Visual pollution on beaches
- The main problem with this type of pollution is the health risk to humans.
- Mainly causes by sewage and oil.
- Bathers can get upset stomachs and eye infections.
- In the short term there is a risk of typhoid and salmonella and polio in the long term.
Sewage sludge
- This includes nitrates from farms and metals.
- The long term effects of sewage sludge are not yet known.
Oil
- This spoils beaches and more importantly kills wildlife.
- Caused by oil leaks but more often tankers washing out at sea.
Atmospheric pollution
- This includes radioactive fallout and acid rain.
- Acid rain damages statues and buildings and also has effects on rivers and ponds.
