Why Pollution Prevention Is the Foundation of Justice, Growth

Most​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ of the damaging consequences of pollution are not visible, which is the main reason why people underestimate the power of pollution.

Nevertheless, we must agree that it is much cheaper and safer to prevent pollution than to treat the diseases caused by it later.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) clarifies that to restrict the use of chemicals, to deal with the waste in a proper manner, and to control pollution not only leads to better health but also to economic growth and gives an impulse to countries to advance toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

Pollution is still one of the most significant environmental threats to human health. Poisonous substances, unclean water, and impure air lead to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancers, and even children's developmental problems.

Whilst its long-term effects are difficult to quantify, it is clear that a decrease in exposure results in healthier communities with lower healthcare costs and more saved lives.

For example, the availability of hygienic water and sanitation facilities keeps many diseases away, decreases the request for medical treatment, and assists in slowing down antibiotic resistance. Healthier communities become more productive and can even survive the crisis.

The economic advantages derived from the fight against pollution are considerable as well.

Moving towards environmentally friendly production requirements as well as embracing a circular economy, which is based on the reuse, repair, and recycling of materials, can cut the waste generated by one's country and at the same time provide fresh employment opportunities.

The agricultural, textile, transport and electronics sectors can all benefit from the more efficient use of resources and meeting the increased demand for eco-friendly products.

Proper waste management might also rehabilitate the waste sector workers, creating safety and easier living for those who depend on waste sector jobs for their daily bread.

In such a case, the prevention of pollution not only helps the economic growth but also the social welfare of the population.

In addition, pollution endangers food security and the livelihood of people. Pollutants in water and soil, the excessive use of chemicals, and plastic litter lower the growing of crops, hurt the animal raising and pollute the fishing industry, thereby farmers and rural communities become the most vulnerable.

According to UNEP, the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices, reducing emissions and usage of clean water can protect environment and at the same time increase food production.

When soil and water become pure, then farmers can achieve higher yields of healthier crops and livestock. The circular system can capture lost nutrients in agriculture making both steady money and secure food stocks possible.

Moreover, pollution prevention is the prerequisite for a more just and equal world. According to UNEP, pollution disproportionately affects those living in poverty, the marginalized, women, and children, mainly as a result of their place of residence and the roles they have in society.

The decline in pollution leads to an improvement in the standard of living, shrinks the gap between rich and poor and creates new opportunities for the most vulnerable in our society.

Availability of fresh air, clean water, and sanitation can give people the opportunity to go to school, work, and socialize like all the other members of the community thereby strengthening communities altogether.

UNEP underlines the fact that pollution prevention is not only very significant for Mother Earth but also instrumental in the formation of healthier, wealthier, and more just communities.

If countries decide to act now, they will be able to offer the citizens good health care, support economic growth, assure food security as well as lessen social inequalities hence putting in place the foundations for a safer and more sustainable future of ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌all.

Follow us on WhatsApp for real time updates, community voices, and stories that matter.