Global Industrialization and the Introduction of Heavy Metal Pollution to the Environment

Abstract

In this chapter, chronological development of industrialization since the 18th century and through the first to the fifth industrial revolution is examined along with its effects on the environment. Findings showed that developments in the industrialization sector are growing exponentially. Similarly, production of solid wastes, emissions, particulates, and effluents from the associated activities are on the rise compared to the ability of the environment to self-cleanse itself. Eventually, air, soil, and water compartments have become polluted with heavy metals that are persistent, non-biodegradable and bioaccumulative in nature. The metals can be transferred from the environmental compartments to plants, animals, and humans to exert their toxic effects. To prevent these advances, industrialization efforts of modern day should reconsider incorporating environmental sustainability aspects as proposed in the principles of industrial revolution 5.0.