A large number of pollutants that can be found in the environment are classified as hazardous substances, and they can enter the environment from natural sources, but most of them reach the environment through human activity. One of the main reasons for massive environmental pollution is the establishment of large industrial centers in the middle of the 19th century and the beginning of the industrial revolution. The main ways of introduction of pollutants into the environment are through emission into the air, water and soil. Pollution of water, air and soil is connected not only with the development of industry, but also with the sudden increase of agricultural lands and the uncontrolled use of pesticides and artificial fertilizers. A big problem that contributes to the sudden increase of harmful substances in the environment are accidents and disasters that occurred due to the release of toxic substances into the environment. Therefore, this paper will give a brief overview of the introduction of pollutants into water, air and soil, as well as about their possible protection.