Talking about Pollution: English Vocabulary List

any unwanted or excessive sound that may cause harm or disturbance to human or animal life

"Noise pollution from the road makes it hard to sleep."

"The constant noise pollution from the nearby construction site made it difficult to concentrate."

the unwanted and excessive artificial light that brightens the night sky, causing problems for stargazing, wildlife, and sleep

"Light pollution hides the stars."

"Light pollution from a city's skyglow can be seen from hundreds of miles away"

toxic and harmful substances in the air that can cause illnesses

"Air pollution causes breathing problems."

"Air pollution in major cities can cause serious health problems like asthma and lung disease."

the poisoning of bodies of water caused by harmful materials

"Water pollution kills many fish."

"Water pollution from factories has destroyed the river ecosystem and harmed local communities."

the stuff left over from factories and businesses that can harm the environment if not handled properly

"Industrial waste harms the environment."

"A brownfield site is a piece of land previously used for industrial purposes that may be contaminated with low concentrations of hazardous industrial waste and pollutants."

a type of gas present in the sky that protects the life on earth from the harmful rays of the sun

"The ozone layer protects Earth."

"The ozone layer high in the atmosphere protects living things on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation."

things such as household materials that have no use anymore

"Take out the garbage now."

"Please take the garbage out before it starts to smell in the kitchen."

electronic devices that are no longer functional, useful, or wanted

"Recycle your old e-waste properly."

"Old computers and mobile phones should not be thrown in the regular trash because they are considered toxic e-waste and must be recycled properly."