What term describes the contamination of the air, water, or ground with harmful substances?

The term that describes the contamination of the air, water, or ground with harmful substances is pollution. Pollution encompasses various types, including air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination, all of which result from the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. This can occur through industrial activities, vehicle emissions, waste disposal, and the use of harmful chemicals, leading to detrimental effects on health, ecosystems, and the climate. Understanding pollution is crucial for addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainability practices.

The other terms provided relate to different environmental concepts. Waste management focuses specifically on handling waste materials to minimize their impact on health and the environment. Deforestation refers to the clearing of forests for various uses, which can contribute to environmental issues but does not directly describe contamination. Overpopulation denotes a situation where the number of people exceeds the resources available in a given area, leading to strain on the environment and resources, but it is not directly about harmful substance contamination.