Chapter Two: Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the impact of land pollution on human health and social well-being, focusing specifically on the case study of Dodoma city. It examines the types of land pollutants, their sources, and their pathways of exposure. It also explores the adverse health and societal effects associated with land pollution and the measures that can be taken to mitigate these impacts.
2.2 Types of Land Pollutants and Their Sources
Land pollutants can be classified into various categories based on their chemical composition, physical properties, and sources. The primary types of land pollutants include:
- Heavy metals: These are metallic elements with a density greater than 5g/cm³. They are often found in industrial waste, mining activities, and vehicle emissions.
- Organic pollutants: These are carbon-based compounds, such as pesticides, herbicides, and dioxins. They can originate from agricultural practices, industrial processes, and waste disposal sites.
- Inorganic pollutants: These are non-carbon-based compounds, such as asbestos, lead, and mercury. They can be released into the environment through industrial activities, mining, and combustion processes.
- Radioactive pollutants: These are isotopes of elements that emit ionizing radiation. They can originate from nuclear power plants, nuclear waste disposal sites, and medical facilities.
2.3 Pathways of Exposure to Land Pollutants
Humans can be exposed to land pollutants through various pathways, including:
- Inhalation: Pollutants in the air can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can damage respiratory tissues and enter the bloodstream.
- Ingestion: Pollutants in soil or water can be ingested through contaminated food or drinks, leading to gastrointestinal and systemic effects.
- Skin contact: Pollutants in soil or water can come into contact with the skin, causing irritation, rashes, and other skin problems.
- Eye contact: Pollutants in the air or soil can enter the eyes, causing irritation, conjunctivitis, and other eye problems.
2.4 Health Impacts of Land Pollution
Land pollution has been linked to a wide range of adverse health effects, including:
- Respiratory problems: Exposure to airborne pollutants can cause respiratory irritation, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Cardiovascular diseases: Exposure to certain pollutants, such as lead and particulate matter, has been associated with increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Cancer: Some land pollutants, such as benzene and dioxins, are known carcinogens and have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
- Neurodevelopmental disorders: Exposure to lead and mercury can affect brain development in children, leading to developmental delays and learning disabilities.
- Reproductive problems: Some land pollutants have been shown to affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
2.5 Social Well-Being Impacts of Land Pollution
In addition to its direct health impacts, land pollution can also have negative consequences for social well-being, including:
- Reduced property values: Polluted land can decrease the value of properties in the surrounding area, making it difficult for residents to sell or refinance their homes.
- Increased crime rates: Studies have shown that areas with higher levels of land pollution tend to have higher crime rates, as residents may feel unsafe or unable to enjoy their property.
- Social isolation: Land pollution can lead to social isolation as residents may be reluctant to leave their homes or participate in outdoor activities due to concerns about health risks.
- Reduced tourism: Polluted areas may become less attractive to tourists, resulting in a loss of revenue for local businesses and communities.
2.6 Mitigation Measures for Land Pollution
To mitigate the impacts of land pollution, various measures can be implemented, including:
- Source control: Reducing or eliminating pollutant sources through industrial regulations, waste management practices, and agricultural best practices.
- Site remediation: Cleaning up polluted sites by removing or treating contaminants to reduce exposure risks.
- Land use planning: Restricting the use of land for activities that generate high levels of pollution to protect human health and the environment.
- Public awareness and education: Raising awareness about the risks of land pollution and promoting responsible behavior, such as proper waste disposal and avoiding exposure to contaminated areas.
2.7 Conclusion
This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on the impact of land pollution on human health and social well-being, with a focus on the case study of Dodoma city. It highlights the types of land pollutants, their sources, pathways of exposure, health and social impacts, and potential mitigation measures. The findings of this literature review will provide a foundation for the empirical research conducted in Chapter Three.