Pollution is the harmful effect of certain by –products of human activates, such as chemical effluents, sewage, pesticides and noise, on the natural environment.

Any type of permanent damage of soils and vegetation can turn huge areas into a desert. It is, however, the `rain-shadow effect’ that has created most deserts in the sub-tropical areas of the earth.

The `rain-show effect’ is seen in areas which are at a great distance is from the sea. Mountain barriers like the Himalayan range allow the rain bearing winds to cast their shadow only and not rainfall over the region. In other deserts like Sahara in Africa, warming of the air at ground level makes it drier. Air pollution also causes warming of air at ground level and `rain-shadow’ effect.

Reduce vehicular pollution

Vehicular exhaust is one of the major air pollutants. Cars produce large amounts of carbon dioxide which is a major contributor to `Greenhouse effect’. Vehicles also emit nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and hydro- carbons which contribute to acid rain and smog. Saving petrol conserves energy and reduces pollution. So:

• Use the car or scooter only when absolutely necessary. Try walking or cycling instead.
• Use public transport as far as possible.
• Use the school bus or consider sharing vehicle space with relatives and friends while going to school.

*The USA emits 1.83 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which is more than any other country.

*September 2002-as much as 86% of Indonesia’s coral reefs, home to thousands of marine species, is severely damaged by over fishing, sedimentation and pollution.

Save water and electricity

Water is one of our vital natural resources. The water you get when you open a tap has gone through several processes of purification, storage and supply, costing money. In many place in our country, water is not easily available. We must, therefore, use water wisely and without waste.

• Don’t keep the tap running when you brush your teeth.
• Use a bucket instead of a shower for bathing.
• Have leaky taps and water pipes repaired promptly.
• Do not use washing machines; they use up a lot more water. In a country like ours with plenty of sunshine, washing and drying clothes are better done manually.

Save electricity

Electricity is the most widely used lighting, cooling and heating energy at homes, schools and work places. With some care and awareness, a great amount of electricity can be saved without any sacrifice to our comforts. Consumption of more electricity creates greater demands on power generation units. Producing more electricity by a thermal power station, for example, means more burning of coal, and more pollution.

• Open windows, curtains and Venetian blinds during daytime and use free natural daylight.
• Reduce the use of TV or radio to the barest minimum.
• Reduce operating time of household electrical appliance to the minimum possible.
• Do not overheat water in your geysers.
• Do not leave lights and fans working when not needed.
• Wear sweaters instead of using heaters when it is cold.