Preventing Phosphorus Pollution: Protecting Waterways And Aquatic Life

Phosphorus is an essential element for plant life and plays a vital role in agricultural systems. However, excess phosphorus in water bodies can lead to eutrophication, causing adverse health and ecological effects. Sources of phosphorus pollution include agricultural runoff from fertilizers, manure, and organic wastes, as well as industrial discharges and urban settings. To prevent phosphorus pollution in water, individuals can adopt simple strategies such as proper waste disposal, reducing runoff, and using phosphate-free cleaning products. Additionally, organizations like the EPA and state agencies are working to combat phosphorus pollution through various initiatives and collaborations.

How to Prevent Phosphorus Pollution in Water

Reduce the use of phosphorus-containing fertilisers, manure, and sewage

Phosphorus is a common component of fertilisers that helps plants grow. However, when too much fertiliser is applied, or it is applied at the wrong time (such as right before it rains), most of it is washed away and ends up in local waterways. This type of pollution is called nonpoint source pollution, and it causes eutrophication (a reduction of dissolved oxygen in water bodies due to increased minerals and organic nutrients) of rivers and lakes, which can suffocate fish.

To reduce phosphorus pollution in water, it is important to minimise the use of phosphorus-containing fertilisers. This can be done by following these practices:

• Apply manure at a uniform rate: By applying manure evenly across a field, producers can subtract the phosphorus content from the fertiliser requirements. This ensures that phosphorus is only added where it is needed, reducing the overall amount used.
• Avoid application before rainfall: As rainfall can wash away phosphorus-containing fertilisers, it is important to avoid applying them right before it rains. This prevents the phosphorus from being washed into local waterways.
• Improve timing of application: Applying phosphorus-containing fertilisers at the correct time can reduce the risk of runoff. For example, applying fertilisers during drier periods can reduce the likelihood of rainfall washing away the phosphorus.
• Reduce the use of phosphorus-containing manure: Manure contains high levels of phosphorus, which can contribute to water pollution. By reducing the use of manure, especially on fields with a high potential for runoff, the amount of phosphorus reaching water bodies can be decreased.
• Implement alternative fertiliser sources: In some cases, alternative fertiliser sources that do not contain phosphorus can be used. This can help reduce the overall amount of phosphorus being applied to fields, decreasing the risk of pollution.

By following these practices and reducing the use of phosphorus-containing fertilisers, manure, and sewage, the amount of phosphorus reaching water bodies can be minimised, helping to improve water quality and reduce the negative impacts of phosphorus pollution.

Minimise water pollution from pet waste

Pet waste is a significant source of water pollution, and it is important to minimise its impact on our waterways. Dog waste contains nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can cause algae blooms and deplete oxygen levels in the water, endangering aquatic life. Additionally, pet waste can contain harmful bacteria and pathogens, which can make their way into the water supply and pose risks to human health. Here are some ways to minimise water pollution from pet waste:

Firstly, it is crucial to always clean up after your pet. When walking your dog, carry plastic bags, a scoop, or disposable gloves to pick up any waste. Double-bag the waste, seal it tightly, and dispose of it in the garbage. It is also important to wash your hands after handling pet waste. Some places, like Richland County in South Carolina, have installed pet waste disposal systems in parks, which offer an eco-friendly and sanitary solution. These systems function like miniature septic tanks, using enzymes and bacteria to turn dog waste into a harmless, odourless liquid that is absorbed into the ground. Such systems are a great way to encourage responsible pet waste disposal and protect our water sources.

Secondly, keep your pet's waste out of septic and sewer systems. These systems are designed for human waste and cannot effectively treat pet waste. If you have a yard, ensure you regularly pick up any pet waste, especially if you have young children who play there. You can also look into purchasing your own pet waste disposal system for your yard, which can help prevent water pollution and maintain a clean and safe environment for your family.

Lastly, be mindful of runoff from your property. Direct rainwater runoff away from areas where pet waste may accumulate, such as using downspouts to divert water away from these areas. This will help prevent the nutrients and bacteria from pet waste from entering storm drains and ditches, eventually making their way into rivers and lakes, and causing water pollution. By taking these simple but important steps, pet owners can play a significant role in minimising water pollution from pet waste and protecting both human health and the environment.

Direct downspouts to lawns to reduce runoff

Disconnecting downspouts is a simple, inexpensive, and low-maintenance way to reduce stormwater runoff. Downspouts that are connected to impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, and buildings can increase runoff by preventing infiltration. By disconnecting downspouts and directing them towards lawns, the stormwater can infiltrate the ground, reducing the volume of runoff.

To disconnect a downspout, you must ensure that the discharge occurs within the property limits and that the contributing rooftop area is limited to a maximum of 1,000 ft2 per downspout. Lawns, gardens, and other existing landscaping are typical receiving areas for disconnected roof runoff. This method works best in areas with moderate to well-drained soils, such as Group A or B soils, which facilitate infiltration.

If your soil is not suitable for simple disconnection, alternative disconnection methods should be used in conjunction with LID structures, such as rainwater harvesting systems, bioretention cells, or rain gardens. These practices encourage infiltration, filtration, storage, and attenuation of runoff volume.

Additionally, you can implement solutions like downspout extensions, splash blocks, and proper yard grading to prevent water damage and direct stormwater away from your home.

Use phosphate-free cleaning products

Phosphorus is a naturally occurring element and an essential mineral found in the human body and on Earth. While it is not harmful in its natural state, it becomes an issue for people, wildlife, and the environment when used to create synthetic phosphate-based chemicals. This is why many countries and states have strict regulations or outright bans on the use of phosphates.

Phosphates are a group of chemical compounds containing phosphorus. They are commonly used in water-based detergents and cleaning products because they ensure that hardness components in the water are bound while maintaining the ideal pH value for cleaning. They also suspend dirt particles and prevent them from adhering to surfaces. These properties are crucial for the strong cleaning performance of products containing phosphates.

However, phosphates cause water pollution when they are washed down the drain. Phosphate-containing detergents deplete oxygen in aquatic environments, creating algal blooms that kill or sicken fish, shellfish, and other aquatic life. This also affects land-dwelling creatures, such as eagles, bears, and otters, which rely on aquatic life for food. Certain types of algal blooms produce toxins that can harm people and create economic challenges for communities that depend on clean water for their livelihoods.

To prevent phosphorus pollution in water, it is essential to use phosphate-free cleaning products. Phosphate-free detergents reduce the amount of phosphate that wastewater treatment plants must clean. While these alternatives may not clean as effectively as traditional phosphate-containing products, they are still satisfactory replacements. For example, phosphate-free dishwashing detergents may use chemicals such as sodium citrate, polyacrylates, polycarboxylates, and tetrasodium etidronate.

Prevent soil erosion and manage nutrient runoff

Soil erosion and nutrient runoff are significant contributors to phosphorus pollution in water bodies. Preventing soil erosion and effectively managing nutrient runoff are crucial to reducing phosphorus levels in water.

Soil erosion occurs when exposed soil is carried away by wind or water, leading to the degradation of water quality. Sediments from eroded soil can choke aquatic life and increase water temperatures. Additionally, pollutants such as bacteria, nutrients, and heavy metals attached to these sediments further impair water quality. Implementing strategies to prevent soil erosion is essential for maintaining water quality and protecting aquatic ecosystems.

One effective strategy to prevent soil erosion is to plant permanent vegetation with deep roots. These plants play a vital role in holding the soil together, especially in areas prone to erosion, such as riverbanks, stream edges, and hillsides. According to research, permanent vegetation cover can significantly reduce soil loss and surface runoff. Selecting the right plants for erosion control is crucial, considering the specific characteristics of the site, such as moisture levels, sunlight exposure, and slope gradient.

In agricultural contexts, zero tillage or no-till farming is a powerful technique for preventing soil erosion. By leaving the soil undisturbed, farmers can protect its natural structure and preserve its protective vegetation layer. This undisturbed state maximizes biological activity, allowing beneficial soil microorganisms to flourish and contribute to healthy nutrient cycles. Zero tillage also reduces the need for chemical inputs, such as fertilizers and pesticides, promoting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to agriculture.

To manage nutrient runoff, it is essential to redirect and capture runoff water before it reaches erosion-prone areas. This can be achieved through the use of swales, terraces, retention ponds, and permeable paving materials. Swales collect and slow down runoff, allowing it to seep into the ground gradually. Terraces create flat planting areas that reduce water flow speed, while retention ponds capture excess water and release it slowly into the ground. Permeable paving materials are useful in areas requiring solid surfaces, as they allow water to penetrate and be absorbed by the soil, minimizing the impact of runoff.

By implementing these strategies, we can effectively prevent soil erosion and manage nutrient runoff, contributing to the reduction of phosphorus pollution in water bodies.

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