Step 1: This question comes from the story "Me and the Ecology Bit."
Step 2: In the story, the narrator, Jim, advises his neighbors on proper ecological practices. One neighbor, Mr. Williams, is found burning leaves in his backyard.
Step 3: Jim explains to Mr. Williams that burning leaves 'pollutes' the air. He suggests making a compost pile instead, which is better for the environment. The burning of waste materials releases harmful gases and particulate matter into the atmosphere, causing air pollution.