The steps to be taken to minimize environmental degradation by industry are:

(a) Air pollution :

1. Particulate matter in the air can be reduced by fitting smoke stacks to factories with electrostatic precipitators, fabric filters, scrubbers and inertial separators.

2. Smoke can be reduced by using oil or gas instead of coal in factories.

(b)Water pollution :

1. Minimizing use of water for processing by reusing and recycling it in two or more successive stages.

2. Harvesting of rainwater to meet water requirements.

3. Treating hot water and effluents before releasing them in rivers and ponds.

4. Overdrawing of ground water reserves by industry where there is a threat of ground water resources also needs to be regulated legally.

(c) Noise pollution:

1. Machinery and equipment can be used and generators should be fitted with silencers.

2. Almost all machineries can be redesigned to increase energy efficiency and reduce noise.

3. Noise absorbing materials may be used apart from personal use of earplugs and earphones.