Which one of the following is the most appropriate and correct practice from the point of view of a healthy environment ?

Treatment of domestic sewage before its release is the most appropriate practice for a healthy environment. Untreated sewage causes water pollution, foul smells, and the spread of water-borne diseases [3]. Proper treatment ensures that effluents do not contaminate water bodies or groundwater aquifers [4]. In contrast, burning plastic wastes is highly detrimental as it releases toxic chemicals like dioxins, nitrogen oxides, and heavy metals, polluting the air and soil [6]. Burning dry leaves is also harmful, contributing to smog-causing nitrogen oxides and air pollution [7]. Furthermore, the excessive use of chemical fertilizers leads to ecological imbalances and soil degradation; sustainable practices instead promote organic farming and bio-fertilizers to maintain natural cycles [5]. Therefore, managing liquid waste through systematic treatment is a critical step in environmental conservation and public health [4].

Sources

1. [2] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > iii) Environment > p. 80
2. [3] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > 5.12.2. Plastics as a Waste Material in Land Environment > p. 97
3. [4] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > S.4.3. Control Measures > p. 77
4. [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > iv) Incineration plants > p. 86
5. [6] https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/OpenBurning/Impacts.html
6. [7] https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPURL.cgi?Dockey=9101NRR1.TXT
7. [5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949911923000059