Question

(iii) List any two harmful effects of non-biodegradable wastes.

Answer 1

Non-biodegradable wastes:

• The non-biodegradable waste cannot be broken down by the activities of the microorganisms, into harmless components.
• These remain in the environment for a long time.

Harmful effects:

• Reduction in soil fertility or contamination of the ecosystems:

The contamination by the waste reduces the fertility of the soil.

• Affecting health of the living beings:

Since the waste does not get reduced, it accumulates in the environment and can enter the food chain through the contamination of the ecosystems. This can cause bio-magnification as well.