Page 29 - e-Modul

They can pollute both aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
They can block the passage of water through drainage channels, leading to waterlogging of soils.
This reduces oxygenation and so affects soil fertility.
They can be mistakenly consumed by animals, on both land and in water. They block the animal's
digestive system and cause many deaths.
They do not allow the passage of oxygen, so when they are present in landfill sites they inhibit
natural decomposition of other wastes.
If they are burned in an attempt to remove them they release toxic 'smoky' particles, which can
affect breathing and have a long-term effect on health.

These plastics are very light, and so when discarded they easily blow from place to place. They make
the environment less attractive (they lower the amenity value of the environment) and often become
lined up against natural windbreaks such as hedgerows and stands of trees.

Pesticides

Learning Module Organisms and Their Environment | Class 11 20