Dr. Rajkumar Singh
Nano pollution impacts environment and human health caused by nanoparticles, which are extremely small particles and can easily penetrate biological cells due to their size. These particles are used in a wide range of products, including construction materials, cosmetics, and sunscreens, leading to their release into the air, water, and soil.One of the concerns with nanoparticles is their release during the handling of dry powders, even in controlled environments like fume hoods, and during construction activities. For instance, nanoparticles in concrete can be released into the environment during demolition or normal weathering processes. Sunscreens can release significant amounts of titanium dioxide nanoparticles into water bodies, which can undergo transformation in acidic soils, potentially leading to harmful effects on aquatic life. Other nanoparticles, such as copper and zinc oxide, can also enter aquatic systems and act as chemosensitizers, posing risks to marine organisms.Recently, a study has highlighted the unintentional release of nano plastics into the atmosphere through common activities such as the cured-in-place pipe repair method used in urban infrastructure maintenance. This process can significantly contribute to the presence of nano plastics in the air, posing risks to human health and the environment.The rapid development of nanotechnologies, coupled with the lack of specific regulations, has raised concerns about the severe environmental effects and unknown human health risks associated with nanoparticles. Even today, the toxic effects of direct or indirect exposure to nanoparticles, remains a pressing need for more research to understand the true extent of nano pollution’s impact on the environment and human health.It requires a better understanding of the sources, pathways, and effects of nanoparticles on different environmental compartments and organisms with methods to control and mitigate the release of nanoparticles into the environment to protect both ecological and human health.
Causes of nano pollution
Nano pollution is caused by the widespread use and disposal of nanomaterials, which are materials made up of particles that are between 1 to 100 nanometres in size. These particles can come from a variety of sources and enter the environment through different pathways: a. Industrial Processes: The production, use, and disposal of nanomaterials in various industries can lead to their release into the environment. For example, manufacturing processes that involve nanomaterials, such as electronics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, can emit nanoparticles into the air, water, and soil. b. Consumer Products: Nanoparticles are used in a wide range of consumer products, including cosmetics, sunscreens, paints, and food packaging. These particles can be released into the environment when the products are used, washed off, or disposed of. c. Construction and Demolition: Nanoparticles used in construction materials, such as concrete or coatings, can be released into the environment during the construction, demolition, or weathering of buildings. Normal abrasion and the demolition process can release nanoparticles into the air and surrounding environment. d. Waste Management and Recycling: The disposal and recycling of products containing nanomaterials can lead to the release of nanoparticles into landfills and wastewater treatment systems, from where they can leach into the soil and water bodies. e. Agricultural Runoff: Nanoparticles used in agricultural products, such as pesticides and fertilizers, can enter water bodies through runoff, potentially affecting aquatic ecosystems. f. Atmospheric Deposition: Nanoparticles can become airborne from various sources, including industrial emissions and the wear and tear of products containing nanomaterials. Once in the air, they can be transported over long distances and deposited in different environmental compartments.The unique properties of nanoparticles, such as their small size, high surface area, and reactivity, make them potentially more hazardous than larger particles of the same materials. However, the environmental and health impacts of nano pollution are still not fully understood, and more research is needed to assess the risks and develop strategies for mitigation and control.
Remedies of pollution
The background of nano pollution is intricately linked to the broader context of plastic pollution, particularly from microplastics and nano plastics. A significant portion of marine plastic debris originates from land sources due to industrial and domestic waste, which finds its way into water bodies and ultimately the sea. Microplastics can come from various land-based sources, including agricultural materials, wastewater treatment plants, and synthetic fibers from clothing. These particles can persist in the environment for over a century, especially in soils, due to low light and oxygen conditions. At large, plastic pollution requires a holistic approach that spans the entire life cycle of plastics, from design and production to consumption and disposal, alongside international cooperation and effective waste management strategies.Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions for pollution control and environmental clean-up, such as efficient filtration systems, pollution-absorbing materials, and sensors for monitoring pollutants. It enables the development of more effective and less energy-intensive methods to reduce pollution and remediate contaminated environment. On the other hand, nanotechnology involves developing strategies for the prevention, control, and clean-up of nanoparticles in the environment. These strategies may include enhancing filtration and treatment techniques in wastewater management to capture nanoparticles, promoting the development and use of biodegradable or less harmful nanomaterials, implementing stricter regulations and guidelines for the production and disposal of nanomaterials, and increasing public awareness and education on the responsible use and disposal of products containing nanoparticles.
(The author is a youth motivator and former Head of the University Department of Political Science, B.N. Mandal University, Madhepura).
