What were some environmental effects of the Industrial Revolution?

The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes to the environment, and one of the most notable effects was increased pollution and deforestation. As industries expanded, the demand for natural resources soared, leading to widespread deforestation as forests were cleared to make way for factories, towns, and infrastructure such as railroads. This destruction of forests not only contributed to habitat loss for many species but also altered local ecosystems and contributed to climate change.

Additionally, the introduction of coal as a dominant energy source in factories led to a marked increase in air pollution. Factories emitted large amounts of smoke and soot, severely impacting air quality in urban areas and contributing to public health problems. Rivers and lakes were also affected, as industrial waste was often released into local waterways, further exacerbating pollution.

In contrast, the other options highlight benefits or outcomes that were not typical of the Industrial Revolution era. Increased agricultural yields did occur as a result of agricultural innovations, but this improvement is not directly tied to the adverse environmental effects being discussed. Enhanced wildlife conservation and improved air quality were certainly not hallmarks of the Industrial Revolution. Instead, it was a period characterized by significant environmental degradation due to rapid industrial growth.