Visual Pollution

The industrial revolution was what gave birth to environmental pollution as we know it today. Many years have passed since the industrial revolution, but during that time, men have identified the different types of pollution from which they’re responsible. There are many kind of pollution and while they may come from different sources and have different consequences, we must understand the basics about pollution and how we can help people minimize their contribution.

Within all types of pollution, we can find visual pollution. Visual pollution is the presence of any unwanted sight that can ruin the aesthetic appeal of a specified area. This type of pollution is perceived through the sense of sight. According to several studies, the main elements of visual pollution are: power lines, construction areas, billboards & advertising, abandoned buildings and fences. The use of these elements lead to the following consequences: dust and air pollution, garbage heaps and landfills, excessive quantity in electric wires and poles, signboards that prevent visibility, deforestation, and many graffiti that mess up public places. As we can see, there are many variables within the visual pollution, but we believe that the biggest of all the pollutants in the cities are advertising and billboards on our streets. This type of pollution has become a serious problem; our cities are full of advertising and we cannot eliminate it so easily. Visual pollution is especially strong in city and urban areas. Every day millions of people are exposed to this contamination, mainly in the biggest cities of the world. The cities were captured by the pollution. Visual pollution affects us all. A building that is made entirely of glass can reflect sunlight, which is dangerous for the people driving. Billboards and advertisements on highway roads can distract drivers and cause accidents. Another factor may be depression, stress and anxiety due excessive quantity of billboards & advertising. Finally, loss of tourism income and increasing crime- Studies show lower crime rate in areas with less visual pollution. Visual pollution disturbs the visual areas of people by creating negative changes in the natural environment. It may lower the quality of life in certain areas, or could impact property values and personal enjoyment.

We can help make the difference. Each of us should ask ourselves? Have we ever supported campaigns to involve people and help have a cleaner city? There are two basic approaches to solving visual pollution – planning and education. Better results can be expected. Though it is difficult to change habits with people and expensive to redesign and replace what already exists. Better results can be expected. Planning to create harmonious and peaceful surroundings. Education: The more people understand the importance of beautiful surroundings; the faster change will be seen. Protect trees and natural resources, reduce banners on the roads. Everybody together can work on education programs, teach our children and show that small changes make the difference and Better results can be expected

Bibliography

Sustainable baby steps, 2009, 7 Kinds of Environmental Pollution, Recovered by http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/kinds-of-environmental-pollution.html