Steam Power and the Rise of Air Pollution
In 1702, Thomas Newcomen developed the world's first steam engine. James Watt, however, was the individual who improved Newcomen's fuel-guzzling design to be more efficient. By the 1780s Watt had built an empire off of steam engines. They were used in everything from steamboats to factories to eventually steam-powered locomotives; changing US industries forever.
Steam allowed for the expansion of industry through freeing the factories of 1700 from the ties of fast flowing hydro power. Factories could be built anywhere. This allowed for there to be more work in more populated areas. The problem with this was as industry grew, so did the amount of pollution.
Environmental concerns began to arise during the 1800s, such as air pollution, destruction of land, and contamination of water. The railroads that were beginning construction often cut through farmland and went through mountains. This posed a threat to landmarks, as dynamite was often used to cut through the solid rock, but many times destroyed more land than was needed. Improper disposal of human and animal wastes led to contamination of water, posing health concerns. Smoke from smokestacks often polluted the air around major cities. Pollution also affected the urban environment, such as in Washington, DC in the 1860s. Residents were allowed to throw garbage into the streets, so living conditions were filthy and homes were often infested with pests.
Steam allowed for the expansion of industry through freeing the factories of 1700 from the ties of fast flowing hydro power. Factories could be built anywhere. This allowed for there to be more work in more populated areas. The problem with this was as industry grew, so did the amount of pollution.
Environmental concerns began to arise during the 1800s, such as air pollution, destruction of land, and contamination of water. The railroads that were beginning construction often cut through farmland and went through mountains. This posed a threat to landmarks, as dynamite was often used to cut through the solid rock, but many times destroyed more land than was needed. Improper disposal of human and animal wastes led to contamination of water, posing health concerns. Smoke from smokestacks often polluted the air around major cities. Pollution also affected the urban environment, such as in Washington, DC in the 1860s. Residents were allowed to throw garbage into the streets, so living conditions were filthy and homes were often infested with pests.