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5.9 THERMAL POLLUTION

Thermal pollution is the rise or fall in the temperature of a natural aquatic environment caused by human influence. This has become an increasing and the most current pollution, owing to the increasing call of globalization everywhere.

Thermal pollution is caused by either dumping hot water from factories and power plants or removing trees and vegetation that shade streams, permitting sunlight to raise the temperature of these waters, release of cold water which lowers the temperature. Like other forms of water pollution, thermal pollution is widespread, affecting many lakes and vast numbers of streams and rivers in various parts of the world.


 

Major sourcesEcological Effects — Warm WaterEcological Effects — Cold WaterControl Measures