One of the most inflated commodities is water, even though it’s the most abundant resource on earth. Water covers ¾ of the earth’s surface but has somehow become very costly. What used to be free, now commands a price. One can no longer drink the water coming from faucets, What Pollutes the Water
There are a variety of things that contaminate our water and contribute to water pollution. They include disease-causing agents, oxygen-demanding wastes, water soluble inorganic pollutants, nutrients, organic compounds, suspended sediments, and water soluble radioactive compounds.
The Dangers of Water Pollutants to Health and Environment
Disease-causing agents are bacteria, viruses, and parasitic worms that can get into the sewage system. Oxygen-demanding wastes are those that require oxygen to decompose, thus decreasing the oxygen supply of sea creatures, which can lead to their death. The water soluble inorganic pollutants like toxic metals can kill aquatic life and make the water unfit to drink. Nutrients like phosphates and nitrates cause excessive algae growth, depleting the supply of oxygen in water, killing fish and other water creatures.
Organic compounds like pesticides and oil in water are very harmful to humans as well. Suspended sediments can spread pesticides in water. Water soluble radioactive compounds are known to cause cancer, genetic damage, and birth defects. Overall, these water contaminants not only pose danger to every living creature thriving on this planet, but also to the environment.
What Causes Water Pollution
Water pollution is caused by human activities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has defined two sources of water pollution. The first is point sources, which include factories, ships, and sewage treatment plants. Point sources are immobile sources that release pollutants into the water. The second is non-point sources. These include agricultural runoff, paved roads and mining activities.
Controlling Water Pollution
In the 70’s, the Clean Water Act was passed establishing the structure for regulating the discharge of water contaminants in US waters. It set wastewater standards for various industries as well as water quality standards.
What You Can Do About It
Considering that water pollution is caused by human activities, you too can help in minimizing it. One way is to refrain from using products that contain harmful chemicals, which eventually end up down the drain. You can also try to recycle electronic waste (e-waste), like dead batteries, as they can leach heavy metals in landfills and cause groundwater contamination. Finally, try to support causes and movements that promote clean water.
