(A) ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD;
This is any natural or human induced event which poses a serious danger or risk to the lives and properties of people in their environment.
(B) EXAMPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS;
1. Volcanic eruption
2. Hail
3. Hurricane
4. Floods
5. Desert encroachment/ desertification
6. Environmental pollution
7. Soil and coastal erosion
8. Earthquakes
9. Tornadoes
10. Lightning
11. Drought
12. Mass washing
13. Mining
14. Oil spillage
15. Deforestation.
(C) EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION;
(a) Pollutants are toxic and can kill aquatic plants and animals. Example is sulphur dioxide.
(b) Toxic wastes can affect soils which can lead to impairment of plant growth.
(c) It can decrease or increase the temperature.
(d) Pollutants can destroy goods e.g. sulphur dioxide destroys leather.
(e) Pollution can lead to chronic diseases such as bronchial or lung cancer.
(f) It causes the destruction of the ozone layer.
(g) Pollutants cause acid rain which can destroy plants and buildings.
(h) Pollutants form fog which reduces visibility and are dangerous to air and motor traffic.