Question

Consider the model above. It may be used to assess the effect of human activity on the environment. Moreton Bay, on the coast of Australia, is known for coral reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves, but the growth of the human population along the coastline has had negative effects on this environment. Of great concern is the huge increase in nitrogen pollution being discharged into the ocean water. Which human activity would NOT be considered a pressure in this case?
Responses
A discharge of sewage into he oceandischarge of sewage into he ocean
B fertilizer run-off from agricultural sitesfertilizer run-off from agricultural sites
C decomposition of garbage found in landfillsdecomposition of garbage found in landfills
D disposal of animal waste into streams and rivers

Answer 1

C

Decomposition in landfills is a breakdown process (and landfills are typically contained), whereas A, B and D are direct sources of nitrogen-rich waste entering waterways and coastlines and so are clear “pressures” in the DPSIR sense.