Page 316 - Cambridge IGCSE Business Studies

Cambridge IGCSE Business Studies Section 6 External influences on business activity

■ emission of greenhouse gases
■ use of energy
■ use of natural resources.

Pollution

Business activity can
result in pollution
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Business activity is responsible for a range of pollutions, as shown in Table 25.2.

Air pollution Caused by fumes from manufacturing units and exhaust fumes created by vehicles. Can lead to respiratory
disorders in humans, and affects plants and animals. Corrosive chemicals in the air can damage buildings.

Land pollution Waste that cannot be recycled finds its way into landfill. Harmful and possibly nuclear waste from factories
can end up in landfill too. Some of this does not decompose and is toxic and unpleasant to see.
Thermal pollution Exhaust fumes in the air that trap heat lead to an increase in air temperatures. Water is used as a coolant in
factories and then returned to the environment at a higher temperature, damaging the plants and animals
in the area.
Light pollution Electronic billboards used by businesses for advertising and over-illumination can interfere with
ecosystems and astronomical observations.
Water pollution Caused by improper waste disposal and contamination by toxic, chemical waste from factories. This
can seriously damage the plant and animal life in the water and can be life-threatening if consumed by
humans.
Visual pollution Unattractive views such as power lines (needed by a manufacturing plant) and overcrowding can be
unpleasant and prevent people from enjoying the natural environment.

Noise pollution Caused by manufacturing plants and cars and aeroplanes. Can be an irritant and affect people’s quality
of life.
Table 25.2 Types of pollution