Controlling pollution in Carib territories
Marjorie Henry, Contributor

The discussion on question nine of Section D, on the June 2008 examination paper, concludes today with a focus on section C of that question. Here is that part of the question:

(c) Explain how TWO measures that have been implemented by Caribbean countries can reduce EACH of the following:

(i) The emission of greenhouses gases (6 marks)

(ii) Land pollution (6 marks)

In reference to the syllabus, the specific objectives being tested here are:

• Describe measures used to reduce the harmful effects of pollution.
• Explain the measures used to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.

Note carefully the wording of the question. You are being asked for measures that have been implemented. In other words, those that are actually in place or practised. Make sure that your response is not on measures that could be implemented.

Measures that have been implemented by Caribbean countries to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases include the following:

• Greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere when we are engaged in activities that require the use of electricity. Much has been done in Jamaica, for example, through the electronic media, to educate the people on the need to reduce the use of electricity. Electrical appliances are to be switched off when not in use. This will help to reduce the use of electricity, which is generated from the burning of fossil fuels such as oil.
• Trees help to absorb the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. As a result, the Government has introduced forested areas, maintained existing forested areas and parks, as well as facilitated the planting of trees along major roadways.
• Vehicular traffic is growing in Caribbean cities. As people buy more cars and demand better transport facilities, fuel is burnt and more greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere. People are encouraged to plan their travel patterns by avoiding unnecessary trips and to carpooling as much as possible. In addition, the use of public transport is encouraged. These will help to reduce the emission of nitrous oxide as fewer vehicles are used on the roads.
• Chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) is an invention of people. The gas is commonly used in refrigerators and air conditioners. It is also used as a solvent. It takes a long time to break down in the atmosphere. Governments have encouraged a reduction in the use of this substance.

Measures that have been implemented by Caribbean countries to reduce land pollution include:

• The development of landfills. Landfills are specially designed disposal sites. Waste is compressed, so that less space is needed. It is covered, so no large area of rotting garbage is left exposed. On some landfills, methane is collected and burnt.
• Proper disposal of household and industrial garbage is encouraged. People are required to dispose of things such as unwanted wrappers, bags, paper cups in proper garbage bags or bins.
• The recycling and reuse of materials are being practised.
• Laws have been introduced to make open dumping of garbage illegal. Citizens are charged a fine if they are caught disposing garbage in an improper manner.
• There is a ban on the burning of garbage in an open area.

The list is certainly not exhausted. Think of other measures that can be added to the list for both categories. In the next lesson, the last question in this section will be discussed.

Sources

• CSEC New Integrated Geography by Sheldon G. Bleasdell et al;
• Longman Geography for CSEC by Jeanette Ottley et al;
• New Caribbean Geography by Vohn A. M. Rahil.

Veteran teacher, Miss Campbell (right), collects a token for her stalwart work at the school, before she retired. The occasion was Gregory Park Primary's Carol Service at the Gregory Baptist Church, recently. -Anthony Minott/Freelance Photographer