THE EFFECTS OF WATER AND AIR POLLUTION ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Water and air pollution are significant environmental issues with major impacts on sustainable development, particularly in the current era and within the international community as a whole. This importance stems from the inherent value of the ecological system, as well as the risks posed by growing amounts of solid and liquid waste on land and at sea, and the spread of environmental pollution in many countries over time. The inability of nations to confront these dangers, which have surpassed all expectations, has resulted in a situation where waste accumulation, deforestation, environmental crimes and a lack of water and air security are commonplace. These issues directly impact food security, which in turn threatens human health.

Therefore, all forms of pollution are among the greatest dangers faced by nations and governments today, exacerbated by the increasing assault on the environment. Rising pollution rates have reached alarming levels that threaten all life, adversely affecting health, food security, economic stability and water resources. Consequently, environmental pollution in its various forms poses a threat to the environment and hinders the achievement of sustainable development in all its dimensions. This situation violates the fundamental human right to a clean environment.

As the ecological system is a shared heritage of humanity, it must be preserved, as it is essential for human life and that of other living beings. Water and air pollution have numerous health consequences for humans and other living creatures, especially in the current technological age where threats to water, food, and health security are prevalent and impede sustainable development. The pertinent question that arises is: What is environmental pollution, what are its main types, and what risks does it pose to sustainable development?