What is a Chemical?
A chemical is a substance that is always made up of the same things. It can be found in nature, like water, or made by people, like chlorine.
Where are Chemicals Found?
Chemicals are everywhere!
- In the food we eat
- In the clothes we wear
- Even inside our own bodies!
We’re all made up of different chemicals! Today, we are surrounded by chemicals. While they make our lives easier and happier, they can put a strain on the environment and living things.
Chemical Pollution
Chemical pollution is caused by the increase in chemical pollutants that are not naturally occurring. Most of them are artificially prepared. Chemical pollutants are organic or inorganic chemicals that are the main cause of chemical pollution and are a source of concern for society.
Chemical contaminants result from a variety of human activities, including:
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Various solvents
- Food colors
- Manufacture, handling, storage, and decomposition of chemicals
Food coloring is a prominent reason for chemical pollution. Laboratory studies have shown that changing the color of food and drinks can have a dramatic impact on people. While it attracts attention, it can indirectly affect health.
Certain contaminants can act locally on organs or cause systemic effects, including carcinogenic, teratogenic, or mutagenic effects.From Classroom to Real-World Solutions—Enroll at a Reputed MSc college in Jaipur and learn to handle chemicals safely and responsibly.
Cosmetic Chemicals
Recent studies have found that some common cosmetics contain dangerous chemicals. These can be harmful to the skin in many ways, highlighting the importance of compositional studies.
Importance of Chemicals
Chemicals are found in almost every product and play a significant role in daily life, including:
- Preserving crops and enhancing harvests
- Preventing and curing diseases
- Providing other benefits that make life easier
However, chemicals must be carefully handled to avoid harming human health and the environment. Since the 1970s, the OECD has worked with governments and businesses to improve chemical and biosafety, harmonizing approaches for evaluation and management.
Conclusion and Safety Tips
Due to the negative effects of chemicals, their use should be reduced. Whenever possible, natural chemicals or safer alternatives should be used.
Steps to protect yourself and your family from chemical risks:
- Read and follow all instructions when using household chemicals.
- If you do not know the contents of a label, contact the manufacturer.
- Ventilate rooms by opening windows when using household chemicals.
- During periods of heavy outdoor air pollution, reduce air intake by closing windows and using an air conditioner.
- Keep all household chemicals out of the sight and reach of children and animals.
- Ensure child-resistant container latches are working.
- Check the Air Quality Health Index and adapt outdoor activities when air quality is poor.
In today’s world, it is impossible to live without chemicals. Careful use can make them a blessing for all of us.
Blog By–
Dr. Neetu Khandelwal
Department of Science
Biyani Girls College, Jaipur