Protecting Our Waterways: Preventing Pollution At Its Source

Water pollution is a pressing issue that poses serious health risks to humans and harm to aquatic life. It is caused by various factors, including plastics, industrial waste, pesticides, bacteria, and fertilizers, with human activity contributing to almost all pollution in aquatic environments. To combat this issue, individuals can make small changes in their daily lives to reduce water pollution and protect our precious water sources. This includes proper disposal of toxic chemicals, reducing plastic use, cutting down on meat consumption, and adopting water-efficient practices at home. By taking these steps, we can all play a role in conserving water and ensuring its cleanliness for future generations.

Dispose of toxic chemicals properly

Hazardous household chemicals should never be disposed of down the sink or toilet, as this can pollute drinking water. Similarly, do not dump household chemicals on the ground as they may flow into surface waters and eventually into groundwater sources, again polluting drinking water. Burning waste products is also not recommended as they can release toxic fumes or gases into the air.

The best way to dispose of household chemicals is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some household chemicals need to be taken to local hazardous waste management sites. Check with your local environmental health department, solid waste agency, or fire department for information on disposal options in your area.

• Acids and bases: Use the entire product if possible. If you have leftover chemicals, save them for a household hazardous waste collection program.
• Aerosols: Completely empty the container before discarding it with other household trash. Check with your local recycler to see if aerosol cans are eligible for recycling in your area.
• Antifreeze: Do not pour used antifreeze down the drain or on the ground. Take it to a local hazardous waste management site. Antifreeze can be recycled.
• Bleach: Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or acidic products as it will release toxic fumes. Any leftover bleach can be flushed down the toilet or washed down a drain with plenty of water.
• Cleaners and polishes: Use these products completely whenever possible. Check the manufacturer’s directions for proper disposal. Unless instructed otherwise, seal empty containers and dispose of them with the rest of your household garbage.
• Disinfectants: Use these products according to label instructions and with caution. Disinfectants containing ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) can be poured down the drain with plenty of cold running water.
• Gasoline: Never dispose of gasoline by pouring it onto the ground or into a sewer, street drain, stream, or other body of water, or by putting it into the trash. Find the nearest disposal center for old or contaminated gasoline.
• Paint: If possible, use all the paint. If you have leftover paint, give it to someone else who can use it. Water-based latex paints are not considered hazardous wastes. Allow the paint to dry out and harden, and then throw it out with your household trash if allowed in your area. Oil-based/alkyd paints should be stored for a household hazardous waste collection program.
• Pesticides: Use pesticides according to label directions. Unused products should be stored for a household hazardous waste collection program. Rinse empty containers three times, save the rinse water for use as a pesticide, then wrap the container in newspaper and discard it with household trash.
• Solvents: Used solvents can be cleaned by allowing paint or dirt particles to settle in a container. Pour the cleared solvent into another container for reuse. Discard the sludge that has settled at the bottom of the container in the trash. Do not dump the sludge into soil or down sewers, drains, or the toilet. Large amounts of sludge should be taken to a recycler or local household hazardous waste management site.

Avoid pouring fat, oil, and grease down the drain

When cooking, it can be very tempting to pour fat, oil, and grease down the drain, especially when you are in a rush or are juggling multiple dishes. However, doing so can cause serious problems for both your home and the wider community.

When fat, oil, and grease are poured down the drain, they can cause a buildup in your pipes. This is because water cannot break down these substances, so they stick to your pipes. Over time, this buildup can cause your pipes to back up, which may result in your home filling with sewage. Not only will this be costly to fix, but it will also create a health hazard and attract bugs.

Pouring fat, oil, and grease down the drain can also contaminate the water supply. The substances back up in sewers and eventually seep into the groundwater, where bacteria will grow, threatening plants and animals. This can be devastating for the entire sewer system and is a serious problem for wastewater treatment plants due to the molecular structure of fat, oil, and grease.

So, what is the best way to dispose of fat, oil, and grease? Firstly, never pour them down the drain. Instead, pour them into a resealable container, such as a glass jar. Allow the contents to cool, then store the container somewhere convenient, such as under your sink. You can also use a food strainer to catch any extra food bits that might go down the drain and dump them in the garbage or compost.

Reduce plastic usage

Plastic is one of the most significant contributors to water pollution, with most plastic waste ending up in oceans and waterways. Single-use plastics, in particular, are a major concern, as they are used once and then discarded, often ending up in the environment. Here are some ways to reduce plastic usage and help prevent water pollution:

Avoid Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, plastic wrap, disposable cutlery, straws, and plastic bottles, are a major source of plastic pollution. By refusing these items and opting for reusable alternatives, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste. Bring your own tote bags when shopping, use a reusable water bottle, and say no to plastic straws and cutlery.

Boycott Products with Microbeads

Microbeads, those tiny plastic scrubbers found in beauty products like facial scrubs, toothpaste, and body washes, are too small to be filtered out by water treatment plants. These microplastics then end up in waterways and oceans, where they are ingested by marine animals. Opt for natural exfoliants like oatmeal or salt, and be cautious when purchasing cosmetics, as many contain microplastics.

Purchase Second-Hand and Buy in Bulk

When buying items, consider purchasing second-hand from thrift stores, garage sales, or online. This reduces the demand for new plastic items. Additionally, when buying products that come in plastic packaging, opt for bulk purchases of larger containers rather than multiple smaller ones. Buying staples like rice and pasta from bulk containers and storing them in jars can reduce plastic waste.

Choose Natural Fibers for Clothing

Synthetic fibers, such as nylon, acrylic, and polyester, are a significant source of microplastics in the ocean. These fibers shed from our clothes and end up in wastewater, eventually spreading throughout the environment. By choosing clothing made from natural fibers like cotton and wool, you can reduce the amount of microplastic pollution entering our waterways.

Support Initiatives and Businesses Reducing Plastic

Support businesses and organizations that are actively working to reduce plastic waste and pollution. This includes companies that offer plastic-free packaging, those that sell products in reusable containers, and initiatives like the U.S. Plastics Pact. Additionally, urge your local officials to implement policies that discourage plastic bag use and promote sustainable alternatives.

Reducing plastic usage is a crucial step towards preventing water pollution. By making conscious choices and adopting more sustainable habits, we can collectively make a significant impact in reducing plastic waste and protecting our waterways.

Cut down on pesticides and herbicides

Pesticides and herbicides are often used to protect crops from insects and weeds, but they can be harmful to aquatic life and contaminate water sources. Here are some ways to cut down on their use:

Firstly, it is important to understand the role of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture. These chemicals are used to protect crops from pests, diseases, and competition, but they can have negative environmental impacts. Pesticides, for example, can contaminate water sources, harm beneficial insects, and persist in the environment. Therefore, it is important to explore alternative methods of pest control.

One way to reduce pesticide use is to adopt more resistant crop varieties. By selecting crop types that are naturally more resilient to pests and diseases, farmers can decrease their reliance on chemical pesticides. This approach not only reduces the environmental impact of farming but also helps farmers save money and resources. Additionally, mechanical weed control methods, such as using robots, sensors, and software to identify and remove weeds, can be employed. While these technologies are still being refined, they show promise in reducing the need for chemical herbicides.

Another strategy is to implement precision techniques for chemical control. This involves using decision-supporting software to determine the right amount of pesticide to use and when to use it. By applying pesticides only when and where they are needed, farmers can minimise their overall usage and reduce the environmental impact of chemical runoff into water bodies.

Furthermore, combining ecological and technological strategies can create more robust and resilient farming systems. For example, Dutch apple orchards, which typically require frequent fungicide treatments due to the presence of about 20 species of fungus, can benefit from the use of a mechanical screen that closes before it rains. This "convertible roof" keeps the apple trees dry, reducing the need for frequent spraying. Additionally, tissue culture and greenhouse cultivation techniques can be used to produce virus-free lily bulbs, reducing the need for insecticides in the following outdoor growing season.

Finally, it is important to address the challenges of adopting environmentally friendly innovations. While some farmers are hesitant to adopt new technologies due to the learning curve and uncertainty, it is crucial to provide support and incentives to encourage the transition to more sustainable practices. This may include knowledge transfer, financial incentives, and the development of user-friendly technologies that require less constant supervision.

Pick up litter and throw it away

Picking up litter and throwing it away is a simple yet powerful act to prevent water pollution. It is crucial to understand that littering affects not only the aesthetics of our surroundings but also the environment, waterways, property values, tourism, businesses, quality of life, and health and safety of our communities. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you take action against water pollution by properly disposing of litter:

Be a Responsible Citizen:

• When you see litter on the ground, take the initiative to pick it up and dispose of it in the nearest trash can or recycling bin. By taking this simple step, you can prevent the litter from being washed into storm drains and waterways, eventually polluting our precious water sources.
• Always carry a trash bag with you, especially when travelling or going for a walk. This ensures that you have a place to put your trash until you find a suitable garbage can. Having a trash bag also reminds you to keep your litter with you instead of tossing it away.
• Invest in a durable, reusable shopping bag that you can keep in your car or bag. This reduces the use of disposable plastic bags offered at stores, minimizing the amount of plastic that can end up in our waterways.
• Properly secure the lids of your trash cans at home. Trash from unsecured bins can be blown away or spilled, leading to litter on the streets and potentially clogging storm drains.
• Compost your kitchen waste or food scraps instead of throwing them away. Composting reduces garbage and improves the quality of your soil, benefiting both your garden and the environment.

Educate and Lead by Example:

• Educate your friends, family, and especially children about the importance of proper litter disposal. Explain the environmental consequences of littering and how it can harm wildlife and contaminate water sources.
• Set a good example by never littering yourself. Show that you dispose of your trash responsibly, and encourage others to follow your lead.
• If you see someone littering, gently remind them about the environmental impact and potential fines for littering. Explain that their actions have consequences for the community and the planet.
• Get involved in community clean-up days or organize one yourself. These events foster a sense of collective responsibility and encourage others to take action against littering.

Remember, every piece of litter that we pick up and dispose of properly makes a difference in protecting our water sources and the environment as a whole. By following these instructions and leading a litter-free lifestyle, you can help create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world for all.

Frequently asked questions