Introduction

1. The Stockholm Conference, officially known as the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, was held in Stockholm, Sweden, from June 5-16, 1972.
2. It was the first major international event to focus on environmental issues globally.
3. The conference marked the beginning of international cooperation in environmental protection.

Goals of the Stockholm Conference

1. To raise global awareness about the need to protect the environment.

Introduction

1. Climate change is a global challenge requiring international cooperation to mitigate its effects.
2. Key initiatives include the Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Agreement, and efforts by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Kyoto Protocol

1. The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and came into force in 2005 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
2. It legally binds developed countries to

Introduction

1. Climate change leads to a wide range of environmental, economic, and social challenges.
2. Key impacts include rising sea levels and an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

Rising Sea Levels

1. Caused by the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps due to higher global temperatures.
2. Thermal expansion: As ocean temperatures rise, water expands, contributing to higher sea levels.
3. Rising sea levels lead to the

Introduction

1. Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns on Earth.
2. It is caused by both natural factors and human activities (anthropogenic causes), with human impact being more significant in recent decades.

Natural Causes of Climate Change

1. Volcanic eruptions release large amounts of ash and gases, such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which can temporarily cool or warm the atmosphere.
2. Solar variability

Introduction

1. Acid rain refers to precipitation (rain, snow, or fog) that contains higher levels of acidic components, such as sulfuric acid and nitric acid.
2. It is caused primarily by the emission of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NO_x) into the atmosphere.
3. Acid rain has both natural and anthropogenic sources, with human activities being the major contributors.

Causes of Acid Rain

1. Combustion of foss

Introduction

1. The ozone layer is a protective shield in the Earth's stratosphere that absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
2. Ozone layer depletion refers to the thinning and reduction of ozone concentration, primarily over polar regions.
3. The phenomenon of the "ozone hole" was first observed in the Antarctic region in the 1980s.

Causes of Ozone Layer Depletion

1. Release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from aerosols, refrigerators, and air conditioners.

Noise Pollution

Introduction

1. Noise pollution refers to the excessive and unwanted sound that disrupts the natural balance and affects human and animal life.
2. Measured in decibels (dB), noise pollution is considered harmful above 85 dB.

Causes of Noise Pollution

1. Urbanization leading to increased traffic noise from vehicles and honking.
2. Industrial activities involving heavy machinery, factories, and construction work.
3. Loudspeakers, music concerts, and public events creating

Introduction

1. Soil pollution refers to the contamination of soil with harmful substances that reduce its fertility and productivity.
2. It is caused by a combination of natural and anthropogenic activities, affecting agriculture, ecosystems, and human health.
3. Major contaminants include pesticides, heavy metals, plastics, and untreated waste.

Causes of Soil Pollution

1. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in agriculture.
2. Improper disposal of

Introduction

1. Water pollution occurs when harmful substances contaminate water bodies, making them unsuitable for human use, aquatic life, and the environment.
2. It is a major environmental issue affecting rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater.
3. Main pollutants include chemicals, biological contaminants, heavy metals, and plastics.

Sources of Water Pollution

1. Industrial waste containing toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and dyes is often discharged into water bodies without proper treatment.

Introduction

1. Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere that affect human health, wildlife, and the environment.
2. It is a significant environmental issue caused by both natural and anthropogenic activities.
3. Major pollutants include particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Causes of Air Pollution

1. Burning of fossil fuels such as coal,