NCERT Solution for Class 10 Science Chapter 15
Our Environment
NCERT Books for Session 2022-2023
CBSE Board and UP Board
Intext Questions
Page No-262
Questions No-3
Give any two ways in which non-biodegradable substances would affect the environment.
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• Chemicals like BHC and DDT induce carcinoma (muscle cancer) and growth of tumours.
• Handling of waste materials may cause skin, respiratory and intestinal infections.
• Non-biodegradable substances do not decompose easily so it produces land and water pollution.
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(i) They cause air, water and soil pollution.
(ii) They may cause bio-magnification in the food chain and end up in humans.
Non-biodegradable substances affect the environment by:
1. They contaminate soil and water resources as they cannot be decomposed by micro-organisms.
2. These substances, when accidentally eaten by stray animals, can harm them and can even cause their death.
Non-biodegradable substances do not decompose easily so it produces land and water pollution.
These substances can harm animals, human and can even cause their death if eaten accidentally.
Non-biodegradable substances would affect the environment in following two ways-
(i) Non- biodegradable substances may cause soil pollution and water pollution.
(ii) If non-biodegradable substances remain in fertile soil or land than it becomes barren.
Non-biodegradable substances can have significant and lasting negative effects on the environment due to their resistance to natural decomposition. Here are two ways in which non-biodegradable substances can impact the environment:
1. Persistence in the Environment:
Accumulation in Landfills: Non-biodegradable materials, especially synthetic polymers like certain plastics, can persist in the environment for extended periods. When disposed of in landfills, these materials do not readily decompose, leading to the accumulation of waste. Over time, this accumulation can contribute to the depletion of available landfill space, increasing the need for more landfills and potentially encroaching on natural habitats.
Marine Pollution: Non-biodegradable plastics, when improperly disposed of, can find their way into water bodies. Plastic waste in oceans and other aquatic environments poses a severe threat to marine life. Animals may ingest or become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injuries, suffocation, or ingestion of toxins. The long-lasting nature of non-biodegradable plastics exacerbates the problem, as they persist in the marine environment for years.
2. Toxicity and Environmental Hazards:
Release of Harmful Chemicals: Some non-biodegradable materials, especially those used in industrial processes or consumer products, may contain toxic chemicals. Over time, these substances can leach into the soil or water, posing a risk to ecosystems and human health. For example, heavy metals and other pollutants from electronic waste (e-waste) can contaminate soil and water, affecting both terrestrial and aquatic environments.
Air Pollution from Incineration: Incineration of non-biodegradable materials can release harmful pollutants into the air. Burning plastics, for instance, can produce toxic gases and particulate matter, contributing to air pollution and negatively impacting air quality. While waste-to-energy incineration is practiced in some places, it requires advanced pollution control technologies to mitigate environmental and health risks.
Addressing the environmental impact of non-biodegradable substances involves adopting sustainable waste management practices, reducing the use of single-use plastics, promoting recycling, and encouraging the development of more environmentally friendly materials.