Translation

汚染 / 公害 / 環境汚染

Meaning

The presence of harmful substances in air, water, or land, making them dangerous or unpleasant. 'Pollution' is an uncountable noun — you cannot say 'a pollution' or 'pollutions'. Key types include 'air pollution', 'water pollution', 'noise pollution', and 'light pollution'. Japanese learners should note that '公害' (kogai) refers to industrial pollution causing social harm, while 'pollution' in English is broader and covers any type of environmental contamination.

Examples

• 大都市では大気汚染が深刻な問題だ。
  Air pollution is a serious problem in major cities.
• 工場廃水が川を汚染している。
  Factory waste is causing water pollution in the river.