University of Pardubice Jan Perner Transport Faculty Transport and ...

Figure 7: China threatening air pollution
Source [42]
Land pollution
Is characterized by the contamination of Earth's surface, where humans and other creatures live.
Increase in urbanization is one of the major causes of land pollution. Construction uses up
forestland. This leads to the exploitation and destruction of forests. There is more demand for
water. Reservoirs are built resulting in the loss of land. The disposal of non-biodegradable
wastes, including containers, bottles and cans made of plastic, used cars and electronic goods,
leads to the pollution of land.
Agricultural wastes including the waste matters produced by crop, animal manure and residues of
the farm land are one of the major causes of land pollution. The pesticides and fertilizers used by
farmers to increase the crop yield, leaches into the nearby land areas and pollutes them.
The process of mining leads to the formation of piles of coal and slag. When these wastes are not
disposed through proper channel, they are accumulated and contaminate the land.
Industrial wastes are major contributors of land pollution. Dumping of toxic materials such as
chemicals and paints makes the areas surrounding the industries, look very filthy.
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