According to the Environmental Protection Agency, people are exposed to a variety of chemicals on a daily basis. Chemicals are used in a variety of locations visited on a regular basis including schools, grocery stores, and dry cleaners.
Chemicals are also common ingredients in household cleaners and can be found in a number of consumer products. The EPA collects data on chemicals that are used and actively works with industries to minimize the diminish the damage caused to the environment. When chemicals are released into the environment, pollution occurs. This can occur when chemicals are released, either knowingly or unknowingly, into water, air, or land.
Agricultural Chemicals
Agriculture is a large source of chemical pollution. There are a variety of chemicals and pesticides that are used in agricultural production. These chemicals can seep into the soil and eventually make their way into groundwater and our food supply. According to the Civil Engineering Department at Virginia Tech phosphates, herbicides, nitrates, bacteria, and pesticides are common pollutants that are introduced to the environment through agricultural means.
Water Pollution
Water pollution can be caused through a variety of means. Water pollution is often tied to agricultural pollution due to the large amount of pesticides and other chemicals that often enter water supplies. Runoff from livestock feedlots and pastures also contributes to this type of pollution.
Another major source of water pollution is oil spills and emissions from aquatic vehicles such as boats and jet skis. According to the University of Michigan, this water pollution can be very harmful to aquatic life. Aquatic plants and fish can suffer from respiratory problems and other issues.
Fish is a major source of the American diet and chemical pollution can severely endanger the fish population. In some instances it could also be possible for chemicals to be transferred to the general population via fish consumption.
Air Pollution
Air pollution is possibly the most commonly thought of form of chemical pollution. An article published by National Geographic discusses the various pathways through which air pollution can occur. Chemical air pollution that is produced by manufacturing businesses and other industries is the most noted form of air pollution.
Cars and planes also give off emissions that can pollute the air. Carbon dioxide is given off as these forms of transportation burn fossil fuels. Although plants and other living things give off carbon dioxide, the levels given off by modes of transportation is significantly greater and has a greater effect on the atmosphere. The National Geographic article also notes that volcanic eruptions and gases emitted from swamps and livestock also contribute minimal amounts to air pollution.
Cleanup
Cleanup of environmental pollution can be time consuming, intricate, and expensive. The tactics chosen, time that needs to be invested in the process, and the techniques employed depend on the type of chemical in question and the size of the area affected.
According to an article published on a website managed by Advameg, there are several government agencies that aid the cleanup of environmental accidents. Many of these cleanup efforts are funded by taxes and fees paid by residents. Volunteer efforts are also beneficial in some instances, although chemical cleanups often require professional assistance and specific safety protocol.
Prevention
Prevention is the best measure for controlling chemical pollution. The EPA actively works with industries to help monitor gas emissions and disposal of hazardous chemicals. There are measures taken to ensure that many of the chemicals and gases used in everyday processes are disposed of and recycled correctly.
Individuals are encouraged to reduce their "carbon footprint", essentially the amount of pollution they contribute to the environment, by recycling, choosing environmentally-friendly modes of transportation such as walking and biking, and living an overall green and environmentally conscious lifestyle.
