Pollution is the presence of unnatural substances in the environment with harmful and sometimes even deadly effects on wildlife.
There are different types of pollution: air, water, soil, as well as light and sound pollution. In Macedonia, air pollution is the most widespread and more pronounced in the winter heating season. However, water pollution is also a significant issue. Although the damage caused by humans isn’t always immediately noticeable, it can be devastating, with serious consequences for human and animal health. Water pollution has a severe impact on animals and plants, which in turn affects people who consume them.
Water is mostly polluted when chemicals and toxic substances are thrown into bodies of water. This is a serious problem both locally and globally. When these harmful substances enter water bodies, they harm aquatic ecosystems and the organisms that rely on them. Efforts to prevent water pollution include stricter regulations and promoting responsible waste management.
Another major source of water pollution is the disposal of sewage and wastewater into rivers, lakes, and oceans, along with the pouring of oil and the presence of microplastics over the past 50 years. When sewage water, which contains waste and harmful bacteria, is released into lakes, rivers, or oceans without proper treatment, it contaminates the water and poses serious health risks. Proper sewage treatment systems are essential to ensure that wastewater is treated before being discharged into bodies of water, protecting both human health and the environment.
Another kind of water pollution is thermal pollution. This refers to the increase in average water temperature, which can be deadly for all creatures living in it. Thermal pollution occurs when industrial processes, power plants, and geothermal energy production sites release heated water into bodies of water. This disrupts the temperature balance, oxygen levels, and nutrient distribution, harming aquatic life.
In conclusion, preventing water pollution requires collective efforts from individuals, industries, and governments. Implementing stricter regulations, promoting responsible waste management, and ensuring proper sewage treatment are crucial steps. By taking these actions, we can protect our water sources and ensure a healthier environment for all living beings.
From the students of SUGS “Lazar Tanev” – Skopje, North Macedonia
