Environmental Issue of SEA

Environmental issues are a significant concern across Southern and Eastern Asia. The region is home to some of the most populated and fastest-growing countries globally, which exacerbates the environmental challenges. This article explores the impact of environmental issues across Southern and Eastern Asia, with a focus on pollution in the Chang Jiang and Ganges rivers and air pollution and flooding in India and China. 

Pollution in the Chang Jiang and Ganges Rivers 

The Chang Jiang (Yangtze) and Ganges Rivers are essential sources of water for millions of people in China and India. Unfortunately, pollution has severely affected both rivers, causing severe environmental and health consequences. In China, the primary cause of Chang Jiang pollution is industrial waste and sewage. The discharge of toxic chemicals and toxins from factories into the river contaminates the water, making it unfit for human consumption. Moreover, farmers often use pesticides and fertilizers on their crops, which eventually ends up in the river, leading to water pollution. The effects of Chang Jiang river pollution include an increase in the death rate of aquatic animals, reduced biodiversity, and the contamination of drinking water.

Similarly, the Ganges river in India is heavily polluted with human waste, industrial effluent, and agricultural runoff. These are major causes of water pollution in the Ganges river. Human waste is a significant contributor to the pollution of the river due to a lack of proper sanitation facilities in many parts of India. Industrial effluent from factories located along the river banks, along with chemical fertilizers and pesticides used in agriculture, also contribute to the pollution of the river. The effects of Ganges river pollution include the spread of waterborne diseases, a decrease in aquatic life, and the degradation of the river's water quality.

Causes and Effects of Air Pollution in India and China

Air pollution is another significant environmental issue in Southern and Eastern Asia. Rapid industrialization and urbanization in India and China have led to increased emissions from factories, power plants, and vehicles, causing severe air pollution. In China, the primary causes of air pollution are the burning of fossil fuels, industrial emissions, and vehicle emissions. The smog and haze caused by air pollution have led to respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, including asthma, lung cancer, and heart disease. Moreover, air pollution in China has affected the health of millions of people, with an estimated one million deaths annually.

In India, the primary causes of air pollution are also vehicle emissions, industrial emissions, and the burning of crop stubble. The burning of crop stubble is a significant source of air pollution in the country, especially during the winter months. The effects of air pollution in India include respiratory illnesses, premature deaths, and the degradation of air quality in many cities.

Flooding in India and China

Flooding is also a significant concern in India and China, particularly during the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall often causes rivers to overflow, resulting in flooding that damages homes and crops and displaces thousands of people. In 2020, flooding in the Indian state of Assam affected more than five million people and caused significant damage to infrastructure. Similarly, flooding is a perennial problem in China, particularly in the Yangtze river basin.

The primary cause of flooding in India and China is heavy rainfall. Climate change has exacerbated the frequency and intensity of rainfall in many parts of the world, including Southern and Eastern Asia. The effects of flooding include the displacement of people, property damage, and the destruction of crops and infrastructure.