South Asia faces several significant environmental problems, including:
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Air Pollution: Major cities like Delhi and Dhaka experience severe air quality issues due to industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, brick kilns, and crop burning, leading to health risks.
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Water Scarcity: Over-extraction of groundwater, pollution of water bodies, and inefficient irrigation practices contribute to water stress, undermining agriculture and drinking water supplies.
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Deforestation: Rapid urbanization and agricultural expansion have led to significant deforestation, affecting biodiversity, carbon storage, and exacerbating climate change.
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Climate Change: Rising sea levels threaten coastal areas, while changing weather patterns lead to increased flooding, droughts, and extreme weather events, impacting food security and livelihoods.
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Waste Management: Inadequate waste disposal and recycling systems result in landfills overflowing with solid waste, leading to soil and water contamination.
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Biodiversity Loss: Habitat destruction, pollution, and overexploitation of resources threaten various species, reducing biodiversity and ecological resilience.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated regional policies, sustainable practices, and increased public awareness.
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