chemicals – Sustain-Ability Media

Pesticide Residues

Pesticide Residues Pesticide residues are small amounts of chemicals used in agriculture to control pests, which can remain on crops, in the soil, or evaporate into the air. These residues can potentially impact human health, causing a range of health issues such as respiratory problems, hormone disruption, and, in some cases, cancer, especially with prolonged…

Ozone

Ozone Ozone (O₃) is a gas formed in the atmosphere through chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) in the presence of sunlight. It plays a dual role in the environment: in the stratosphere, ozone forms the ozone layer, which protects life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation. However, at…

Nitrogen Oxides

Nitrogen Oxides Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) is a group of reactive gases primarily composed of nitric oxide (NO), a colorless, odorless gas, and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a reddish-brown gas with a pungent odour. NO forms during high-temperature combustion processes and reacts with oxygen or ozone in the air to create NO₂. NOx contributes to air pollution,…

Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile Organic Compounds Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that easily vaporize into the air at room temperature, contributing significantly to air pollution. VOCs include such compounds as methane, benzene, xylene, propane and butane. VOCs are emitted by various sources, including industrial processes, transportation, and agriculture (ruminants and cultivation). They play a major role…

Water pollution

Water pollution Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies—such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater—by harmful substances or pollutants. These pollutants can include chemicals, toxins, heavy metals, sewage, and plastics. Water pollution can result from various sources, including industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, wastewater, and improper waste disposal. It negatively impacts aquatic ecosystems, harms…

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of over 4,000 human-made chemicals known for their heat, water, and grease-resistant properties. Since the 1950s, PFAS have been widely used in consumer goods such as textiles, food packaging, firefighting foams, and cosmetics. Due to their widespread use and persistence, PFAS chemicals…

Forever chemicals

Forever chemicals “Forever chemicals” is a term used to refer to a category of human-made synthetic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are characterized by strong molecular bonds between carbon and fluorine atoms, making them highly resistant to degradation in the environment. PFAS can accumulate in nature and in human tissues, raising…