A pollutant is any substance that, when introduced into the environment, can cause harm or adverse effects to living organisms, ecosystems, or natural resources. Pollutants can be found in various forms, including:

Chemical Pollutants: These include heavy metals (like lead and mercury), pesticides, and industrial chemicals that can contaminate air, water, and soil.

Biological Pollutants: Microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause disease or negatively affect health.

Physical Pollutants: These include noise, heat, and radiation that can disrupt natural processes or harm living beings.

Nutrient Pollutants: Excessive nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, can lead to problems like algal blooms in water bodies, depleting oxygen levels and harming aquatic life.

Pollutants can originate from various sources, including industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, urban development, and transportation. Their impact can lead to health issues in humans and animals, degradation of ecosystems, and overall environmental imbalance.