Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Aquatic resources, encompassing rivers, lakes, estuaries, and oceans, are vital for ecological balance and human sustenance. However, these resources are increasingly threatened by pollution stemming from various anthropogenic activities. Pollution of aquatic resources refers to the contamination of water bodies, usually as a result of human activities, rendering it harmful to aquatic life and unfit for human use. A particularly concerning aspect is ‘cultural eutrophication’, an accelerated form of natural eutrophication driven by human inputs. This process leads to algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and ultimately, the degradation of aquatic ecosystems. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing prevention, control, and remediation strategies.
Causes of Pollution of Aquatic Resources
Aquatic pollution arises from both point and non-point sources. Point sources are identifiable and localized, such as discharge from factories, sewage treatment plants, and oil tankers. Non-point sources are diffuse and widespread, including agricultural runoff, urban stormwater, and atmospheric deposition.
- Industrial Effluents: Discharge of heavy metals (mercury, lead, cadmium), organic chemicals, and thermal pollution.
- Agricultural Runoff: Fertilizers (nitrates and phosphates), pesticides, and animal waste contribute to nutrient enrichment and toxic contamination.
- Domestic Sewage: Untreated or partially treated sewage contains pathogens, organic matter, and nutrients.
- Oil Spills: Accidental or intentional release of oil into aquatic environments.
- Mining Activities: Release of heavy metals and acidic drainage.
- Solid Waste: Dumping of plastic, electronic waste, and other solid materials.
- Atmospheric Deposition: Acid rain and deposition of pollutants from the air.
Consequences of Pollution and Cultural Eutrophication
The consequences of aquatic pollution are far-reaching, impacting both ecological health and human well-being.
- Impact on Aquatic Life: Toxicity to fish and other aquatic organisms, disruption of food chains, and loss of biodiversity.
- Human Health Risks: Waterborne diseases (cholera, typhoid, dysentery), bioaccumulation of toxins in seafood, and contamination of drinking water sources.
- Economic Losses: Reduced fisheries yields, decreased tourism revenue, and increased costs for water treatment.
- Cultural Eutrophication: This is the excessive enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, leading to:
- Algal Blooms: Rapid growth of algae, often harmful algal blooms (HABs) producing toxins.
- Oxygen Depletion (Hypoxia/Anoxia): Decomposition of algal blooms consumes oxygen, creating ‘dead zones’ where aquatic life cannot survive.
- Loss of Biodiversity: Sensitive species are replaced by tolerant species.
- Impaired Water Quality: Reduced clarity, unpleasant taste and odor.
Example: The Ganges River in India suffers from severe pollution due to industrial discharge, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff, leading to high levels of fecal coliform bacteria and reduced oxygen levels. This impacts the health of millions who depend on the river for water and livelihood.
Measures for Abatement of Water Degradation
Addressing aquatic pollution requires a comprehensive and integrated approach.
- Wastewater Treatment: Implementing advanced wastewater treatment technologies to remove pollutants before discharge.
- Industrial Pollution Control: Enforcing stricter regulations on industrial effluents and promoting cleaner production technologies.
- Agricultural Best Management Practices: Reducing fertilizer and pesticide use, promoting organic farming, and implementing soil conservation measures.
- Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM): Managing water resources in a holistic and sustainable manner.
- Public Awareness and Education: Raising awareness about the importance of water conservation and pollution prevention.
- Strengthening Regulatory Framework: Enforcing existing environmental laws and regulations effectively.
- Bioremediation: Using microorganisms to degrade pollutants.
- Constructed Wetlands: Utilizing natural wetlands to filter and treat wastewater.
National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG): Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to rejuvenate the Ganges River through comprehensive pollution control measures, including sewage treatment infrastructure, industrial effluent monitoring, and afforestation.
| Pollution Type | Abatement Measure |
|---|---|
| Industrial Effluents | Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) |
| Agricultural Runoff | Integrated Nutrient Management, Organic Farming |
| Domestic Sewage | Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems |
| Plastic Pollution | Reduce, Reuse, Recycle initiatives, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) |
Conclusion
The pollution of aquatic resources, particularly the problem of cultural eutrophication, poses a significant threat to both ecological integrity and human well-being. Effective abatement requires a concerted effort involving stringent regulations, technological advancements, sustainable agricultural practices, and increased public awareness. The success of initiatives like the NMCG demonstrates the potential for restoring degraded aquatic ecosystems, but sustained commitment and integrated management are crucial for ensuring long-term sustainability and safeguarding these vital resources for future generations.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.