Reducing Sewage Pollution: Strategies For A Cleaner Environment

Sewage pollution is a pressing issue, with more than 80% of the world's wastewater flowing back into the environment untreated. This has severe consequences for human health and the environment, as sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, as well as excess nutrients that fuel algal blooms. To reduce sewage pollution, we must address the improper handling of wastewater, which is the main cause of water pollution. This involves implementing effective sewage treatment methods, such as centralized treatment plants and decentralized, individual wastewater systems. Additionally, individuals can play a role by properly disposing of waste, conserving water, and reducing runoff. Upgrading outdated infrastructure and investing in natural areas to prevent stormwater from reaching sewers are also crucial steps to combat sewage pollution.

Fix cracked pipes and other damage to the sewage system

Cracked pipes are a common issue with sewage systems and can have many causes, including old age, tree roots, and improper flushing. To fix this issue, it is important to first identify the location and extent of the damage. This can be done through a sewer video inspection or by using a camera to inspect the pipes.

Once the damage has been assessed, there are several options for repairing or replacing the broken pipes:

• Trench method: This involves digging up the old pipe and repairing or replacing it. This option can be affordable, but it may cause damage to your lawn or property.
• Trenchless epoxy method: For this method, a plumber will dig a hole to access the pipe, clean it out, and then patch it with epoxy resin and a synthetic liner. This option causes minimal damage but can take a long time to cure.
• Trenchless pipe burst method: If the pipe is too damaged to repair, a specialised drill tip can be run through the old pipe to break it apart and make room for a new one. This option avoids the mess of digging up the old pipe but leaves the remains of the old pipe in the ground.
• Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining: This method involves lining the existing pipe with a resin-soaked pipe that hardens in place and has a life expectancy of around 50 years. It is less invasive and can often be completed within a day but may not be suitable for pipes with extensive damage.

To prevent cracked pipes and other damage to the sewage system, it is important to properly maintain the system. This includes avoiding the use of chemical drain cleaners, not parking on your lawn over the pipes, and being careful about what is flushed down the drain. Regular inspections and maintenance by a licensed plumber can also help identify and fix any issues before they become more serious.

Avoid planting trees and shrubs near sewer lines

Tree roots can cause blockages in sewer lines, leading to messy sewage backups in your home. Tree roots can enter even the smallest cracks in pipes, and they can exert strong pressure, easily working their way into common sewer line materials like ductile iron, concrete, and plastic. Some trees have particularly aggressive roots that can completely crush sewer lines.

To avoid this, it is important to keep trees and shrubs away from sewer lines. Before planting, it is crucial to check for underground utilities and plan accordingly. Tree limbs grow tall, but their roots grow wide. For example, a maple tree that stands 15 feet tall can have roots that spread 15 feet or more in both directions. Therefore, when choosing a tree to plant, it is important to find out about its growth potential and then plant it at a safe distance from any underground pipes. If the tree is projected to grow 12 feet tall, the hole should be dug at least 12 feet away from any utility lines.

In addition to keeping trees and shrubs away from sewer lines, it is also important to regularly inspect and clean the lines to prevent blockages and maintain proper functioning.

Only flush the three P's (pee, poop, and toilet paper)

Flushing only the three Ps—pee, poop, and toilet paper—is a simple yet effective way to reduce sewage pollution. This practice is crucial as improper handling of wastewater is a significant cause of water pollution in cities. By only flushing the three Ps, we can help prevent sewage backups, blockages, and overflows in our homes and local sewer systems.

Flushing anything other than the three Ps can lead to clogged pipes and costly repairs. For example, wipes, paper towels, and other products can clog home plumbing and sewer lines, resulting in sewage backups and expensive repairs. These clogs can also harm wastewater treatment systems, damaging equipment and leading to environmental damage and higher sewer rates.

Another issue is the disposal of prescription and over-the-counter medications. These drugs contain chemicals that can be harmful to the wastewater supply. Instead of flushing them, it is important to dispose of medications properly through programs such as National Take-Back Days or drug take-back programs offered by pharmacies.

By following the three Ps rule, we can help reduce the risk of sewer backups and overflows, protect our pipes, and minimize the impact on our sewers and the ocean. This simple practice can go a long way in reducing sewage pollution and its negative consequences on the environment and public health.

In addition to following the three Ps rule, it is important to properly dispose of grease, fats, and oils. These substances can combine with wipes and other flushed products to form fatbergs, which are masses of solid material that clog sewer lines and lead to sewer overflows. By disposing of grease, fats, and oils in the trash instead of pouring them down the drain, we can help prevent fatbergs and further reduce the risk of sewage pollution.

Conserve water to reduce the amount of wastewater

Conserving water is essential to reducing sewage pollution. Water conservation helps prevent water pollution in nearby lakes, rivers, and watersheds. It also reduces the risk of untreated sewage flowing into these water bodies, which can threaten the lives of thousands. Here are some ways to conserve water and reduce wastewater:

Fix Leaks

Small leaks can add up to gallons of water lost every day. Regularly check your faucets, pipes, and toilets for leaks and get them repaired as soon as possible. Fixing leaks can save water and reduce the strain on your plumbing system.

Upgrade to Efficient Fixtures

Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures is a simple way to reduce water usage. Look for WaterSense-labeled products, such as faucet aerators, showerheads, and toilets. These products are designed to use less water while maintaining performance and quality.

Reduce Toilet Usage

Avoid using your toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket. Every time you flush a cigarette butt or tissue, you're wasting gallons of water. Put trash in the garbage or recycle it if possible. Additionally, consider installing a dual-flush converter or a composting toilet to further reduce water usage.

Shorten Your Showers

Long showers can use up to 10 gallons of water every minute. Limit your shower time by turning off the water while soaping up and washing, and then turn it back on to rinse. You can also install water-saving showerheads or flow restrictors to reduce water flow without sacrificing cleansing and refreshing showers.

Turn Off the Tap

Simple habits like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your face can save a significant amount of water. Fill a glass of water for rinsing instead of letting the tap run. The same goes for washing dishes or vegetables; fill a sink or bowl with water instead of letting the faucet run.

Only Run Full Loads

Whether it's your dishwasher, washing machine, or clothes washer, make sure to only run full loads. Running these appliances with partial loads wastes water and increases your water and energy bills. Adjust water levels accordingly for partial loads to minimize waste.

Water Your Lawn Efficiently

Instead of watering your lawn on a regular schedule, water it only when it needs it. You can check by stepping on the grass; if it springs back when you move your foot, it doesn't need water. When you do water your lawn, deep-soak it to allow water to reach the roots, reducing evaporation and promoting water retention.

Conserve Water in Other Ways

There are many other ways to conserve water in your daily life. Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge instead of running the tap. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks. Opt for a commercial car wash that recycles water or wash your car with a bucket and a hose with a spray nozzle. Every little action adds up to make a big difference.

Direct roof downspouts into a rain barrel or vegetated area

Rain barrels are an effective way to capture and store runoff from small to moderate storms. Directing roof downspouts into a rain barrel is a simple way to collect rainwater for use around your landscape. This method of rainwater harvesting provides an alternative to using municipal water or well water for irrigation.

A rain barrel is a container that collects runoff from a gutter system, connecting to the downspout with a rain diverter or fitting under a modified downspout. A spigot or hose connector lets you drain the water for use in irrigation. Plants benefit from rainwater as it is free of the chemicals and minerals found in tap water.

Rain barrels can reduce the volume of runoff entering the storm sewer, keeping pesticides, fertilizer, and other chemicals out of nearby water bodies. They are particularly useful during the growing season, as the collected water can be used for irrigation between storm events.

To install a rain barrel, you will need to locate an appropriate area near a downspout and prepare the surface by creating a stable, level surface. The barrel should be elevated to improve the flow rate, and the downspout should be configured to direct water into the barrel. It is important to ensure that the barrel is securely attached to the structure and that overflow is directed away from your home's foundation.

In addition to reducing sewage pollution, rain barrels offer financial benefits. Some cities offer financial incentives for using rainwater for irrigation as a supplement to municipal water.

Frequently asked questions