Final answer:
A comprehensive approach to address a factory polluting a river includes setting strict regulations, monitoring environmental effects, conducting impact assessments, and promoting public awareness.
Step-by-step explanation:
To address the issue of a factory releasing waste into the James River, a multifaceted approach can be taken, encompassing setting boundaries and establishing rules for environmental protection. Firstly, implementing strict regulations on waste disposal would involve specifying allowable quantities of pollution and requiring the installation of anti-pollution equipment. Firms would thus consider the social costs of pollution when deciding how much output to produce.
Secondly, monitoring water quality and wildlife populations ensures ongoing compliance with regulations and measures the effectiveness of implemented policies over time. Regularly assessing the impact of the factory on the local environment would be key to understanding and mitigating negative effects.
Thirdly, conducting environmental impact assessments would further inform and possibly lead to improved regulations and techniques for reducing pollution, as well as providing a clear picture of the factory's long-term effects on the environment.
Last but not least, encouraging public awareness and advocacy has the potential to galvanize community support and exert pressure for stricter environmental oversight and sustainable practices.