Biological consequences of environmental control

Abstract

This paper explores the possible secondary biologic consequences of successful implementation of environmental control programs. Several examples are given of pollution control programs that initially seemed beneficial but later proved otherwise, such as the use of DDT for the control of insect pests; the mandatory conversion of many coal fired power generating facilities to natural gas or oil, and the subsequent reconversion back to coal and the necessary emission control equipment after the realization of the need to conserve these fuel reserves. Also considered is the manner in which tall stacks managed to reduce the ground level concentrations nearest the stack, but increased concentrations further away where emissions had not previously reached with short stacks. Some possible effects on ecosystems are also discussed, with attention to natural ozone tolerances of plants that have evolved in the presence of ozone and the unavoidable affects of natural pollution sources. The probable costs of implementation of stricter pollution control standards are compared to the possible limited benefits that may be gained.