The Role of Government in Preventing Chemical Degradation of the Environment

1. Legislation: The government should make laws to protect the environment. The laws should specifically be directed to control all substances that are potentially detrimental to the environment. It should cover industrial pollutants, waste, and should provide guidelines for how to handle all forms of substances that can harm the environment. The law should also prescribe punishment for anyone who defaults to adhere to the laws.

2. Setting up minimum standards: The government should outline standards that should be adhered to, regarding matters that concern the environment. Industries involved in dealings with hazardous substances must have to adhere to the standards in all their operations. All chemicals that their spillage or their accidental disposal can harm the environment must be used in strict adherence to the laid minimum standards.

3. Enforcement of standards and legislation: After making the legislation and setting the minimum standards, the government through its agencies should ensure that all companies, industries, and organizations concerned should adhere to them. Any organization that defaults should be punished to the full extent of the law. 

Evaluation Questions

1. State the adverse effects of chemicals on the environment.
2. List three examples of chemical wastes
3. State the role of the government in preventing chemical degradation of the environment.
4. Give some examples of chemical compounds associated with ozone layer depletion.