Community Action For Water Pollution Prevention

Water pollution is a pressing issue that affects our rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and seas, contaminating drinking water sources and causing approximately 1.8 million deaths in 2015, according to a study published in The Lancet. It is crucial to address this issue at the community level to protect our water sources and prevent harmful health consequences. This includes implementing measures to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff, properly disposing of waste, maintaining septic systems, and advocating for stronger regulations to hold polluters accountable. By taking collective action and adopting sustainable practices, we can ensure safe and sufficient water for future generations.

How to Prevent Water Pollution in the Community

Reduce plastic consumption and reuse or recycle plastic

Reducing plastic consumption and reusing or recycling plastic are essential steps to prevent water pollution in your community. Here are some detailed suggestions to help you get started:

Reduce Plastic Consumption

• Borrow or Buy Used Items: Before purchasing new items, consider if you can borrow them from someone or buy them second-hand. This reduces the demand for new plastic products and helps you save money.
• Choose Reusable Options: Opt for reusable alternatives to single-use plastics, such as cloth napkins, reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and food containers.
• Minimize Packaging: When shopping, choose products with minimal packaging or those packaged in recyclable materials like glass or paper. Look for bulk options to reduce the overall amount of packaging.
• Avoid Plastic Utensils: Say no to plastic utensils when ordering takeout, and bring your reusable cutlery if possible.
• Buy Recycled Products: Support products made from recycled plastic materials, such as bubble wrap or items packaged in recycled containers.

Reuse or Recycle Plastic

• Reuse and Repurpose: Before discarding plastic items, consider if they can be reused or repurposed. For example, turn a plastic container into a storage solution or donate unwanted plastic items that are still in good condition.
• Know Your Recycling Program: Understand what types of plastic your local recycling program accepts. Look for the resin identification code, usually a number within a triangle, on the bottom of containers. This code indicates the type of plastic.
• Properly Dispose of Plastic Bags: Plastic bags, wraps, and films are recyclable but often cannot be placed in household recycling bins. Find designated drop-off locations, such as local grocery stores or recycling centers, to recycle these items.
• Handle Compostable Plastics Separately: Compostable plastics cannot be mixed with non-compostable plastics. If your community doesn't offer a composting pick-up service, contact your local government or recycling company to find drop-off locations for compostable plastic items.
• Support Recycling Initiatives: Encourage your community to establish and increase recycling programs. Participate in recycling drives or initiatives to promote a collective effort in reducing plastic waste.

Dispose of chemical cleaners, oils, and non-biodegradables properly

Properly disposing of chemical cleaners, oils, and non-biodegradables is crucial for maintaining the health of our environment and communities. Here are some detailed guidelines for proper disposal:

Chemical Cleaners:

When disposing of chemical cleaners, always read the labels and follow the specific disposal instructions provided by the manufacturer. Many household cleaning products are water-soluble and can be safely flushed down the drain with running water. However, it is important to use only the minimum amount necessary when cleaning, as excessive chemicals can still be harmful to the environment. Avoid mixing cleaning products, even during disposal, as this can create dangerous combinations. For products that require special handling, such as solvent-based paints or certain pesticides, reach out to your local household hazardous waste collection program. Additionally, consider using phosphate-free and biodegradable cleaning products, which are safer for the environment and can be broken down by natural microorganisms.

Oils:

Used cooking oils should never be poured down the drain. Doing so can cause clogged pipes and sewers, leading to sewage backups and water pollution. Instead, properly store the oil in a sealed and tight container before disposing of it with your food waste. You can also cool or freeze the oil, which makes it easier to handle and dispose of. Many companies that collect household hazardous waste often accept used cooking oil. Alternatively, give your used oil to a nearby restaurant, as they typically have proper disposal systems in place.

Non-Biodegradables:

Non-biodegradable items, such as plastic packaging, should be recycled whenever possible. Check with your local recycling coordinator to understand the specific recycling guidelines in your community. Many communities now collect plastic bottles, and some manufacturers are using recycled materials in their packaging, helping to close the recycling loop. However, it's important to note that products labeled as "biodegradable" may not always be compostable, so be sure to educate yourself on the proper disposal methods for each product.

Keep litter and other trash out of creeks and streets

Keeping litter and other trash out of creeks and streets is essential to preventing water pollution in the community. Here are some ways to do this:

Properly Dispose of Waste

Firstly, it is crucial to properly dispose of waste in designated trash bins, recycling bins, or compost bins. By ensuring that garbage is securely contained, we can prevent it from becoming aquatic trash. This includes items such as food wrappings, drink containers, and newspapers. Taking personal responsibility for our own waste is essential, and we should avoid littering and always carry our trash home or to the nearest waste disposal facility if no bins are available.

Reduce Plastic Consumption

Single-use plastics, such as plastic bottles and bags, are a significant source of aquatic trash. These items do not easily decay and can harm wildlife and the environment. Therefore, it is important to reduce our plastic consumption and opt for reusable or recyclable alternatives whenever possible. This includes bringing our own containers for leftovers when dining out or ordering takeout.

Maintain Storm Drains and Sewer Systems

Storm drains and sewer systems are often entry points for trash into waterways. It is important to keep these systems clear of blockages and to support initiatives like the "Adopt a Storm Drain" program, which aims to catch trash before it enters the storm drain. Additionally, we should be mindful of what we pour or flush down drains and sewers, ensuring that chemicals, oils, and non-biodegradable items are properly disposed of separately.

Community Education and Collaboration

Educating the community about the impact of littering and providing information on the complex path that litter takes to reach creeks can empower individuals to make better choices. Collaborating with local departments and organizations can lead to integrated trash management efforts and more effective strategies to reduce litter in the community.

Support Regulatory Measures

Advocate for regulations that reduce the impact of overflowing dumpsters, such as the implementation of containment barriers. Support rules that require telecommunication service providers to remove abandoned cables, and work with businesses to keep their operations from contributing to litter in waterways. These measures can help reduce the amount of trash that ends up in creeks and streets.

Maintain your septic tank and sump pump

Maintaining your septic tank and sump pump is crucial to prevent water pollution in your community. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive guidelines to help you keep your septic tank and sump pump in optimal condition:

Septic Tank Maintenance:

• Regular Inspections and Pumping: Have your septic tank inspected annually by a licensed professional. During the inspection, note the scum and sludge levels. If the scum level is high, it's time to pump the tank. Generally, a septic tank should be pumped every three to five years to prevent scum and sludge buildup, ensuring proper functioning and prolonging its lifespan.
• Avoid Overloading with Water: Excess water can reduce the ability of wastewater to percolate through the soil, affecting the drain field's ability to treat wastewater effectively.
• Avoid Impure Elements: Contamination of groundwater can occur when wastewater is not properly treated within the tank before reaching the outlet drain. Avoid using water softeners, as they can send excess salt into the septic tank, disrupting the soil dispersal process and potentially pushing impure particles into the drain field.
• Health and Environmental Impact: Maintaining a healthy septic system has a direct impact on the health of individuals in the community. Poorly maintained septic systems can lead to groundwater contamination, resulting in illnesses such as typhoid fever, hepatitis, and dysentery. It can also affect nearby bodies of water and drinking water sources, posing risks to both human health and the environment.

Sump Pump Maintenance:

• Annual Testing: Test your sump pump annually, preferably before the wet season in early spring. Pour a bucket of water slowly into the sump pump to ensure it functions correctly. If it fails to turn on or discharge water properly, call a licensed plumber for assistance.
• Clean and Inspect: Unplug the unit and remove any dirt, sand, gravel, or debris from the pump opening. Check for worn parts, especially the float switch, which may need replacement every two years. Also, inspect for corrosion and clean the inlet screen.
• Install a Battery Backup: A battery backup ensures that your pump continues to operate even during a power outage. Test the battery backup regularly by unplugging the pump.
• Direct Water Discharge: Ensure that discharged water is directed at least 20 feet away from your house, preventing water from clogging or backing up along the line.
• Signs of Sump Pump Aging: Pay attention to signs indicating that your sump pump may need repair or replacement. These include the presence of water in your basement, unusual odors, rust, and loud or unusual noises.

By diligently maintaining your septic tank and sump pump, you can help prevent water pollution in your community, protect the environment, and safeguard the health and well-being of those around you.

Reduce water usage and install water-efficient appliances

Water efficiency is a critical aspect of preserving our nation's water resources for current and future generations. Reducing water usage and installing water-efficient appliances can significantly contribute to preventing water pollution in your community. Here are some detailed and instructive tips to help you get started:

Reduce Water Usage:

• Be mindful of your daily habits: Opt for quick showers instead of baths, and if you must take a bath, try to limit the water depth. When washing your hands or brushing your teeth, turn off the faucet when not in direct use.
• Fix any leaks: Small household leaks can result in gallons of water lost daily. Regularly check your plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for any leaks, and repair them promptly.
• Sweep instead of hosing: Instead of hosing down driveways, sidewalks, and steps, opt for sweeping them. This simple act can help conserve a significant amount of water.
• Car washing: When washing your car, use a bucket of water instead of a running hose. Alternatively, consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• Pool maintenance: If you own a pool, use a cover when it's not in use to reduce evaporation. This helps minimize water loss and the need to refill the pool frequently.

Install Water-Efficient Appliances:

• Upgrade your appliances: Look into purchasing water-efficient appliances, such as ENERGY STAR-certified dishwashers and washing machines. These appliances use less water and energy, reducing your environmental impact and utility bills.
• Water-efficient fixtures: Install water-saving fixtures in your home, such as high-efficiency toilets, showerheads, and faucets. Toilets manufactured before 1990 often used 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush, while current federal standards allow 1.6 gallons per flush. Water-efficient toilets use 1.2 gallons per flush or less. High-efficiency showerheads use less than 2 gallons of water per minute, reducing your water and electricity costs. Efficient faucets have a flow rate of about 1.5 gallons per minute, a significant improvement over inefficient faucets.
• WaterSense labeled products: When upgrading your appliances and fixtures, look for the WaterSense label. This label is backed by independent third-party certification and meets EPA specifications for water efficiency and performance. WaterSense labeled homes offer even more savings compared to traditional homes.

Remember, by reducing your water usage and installing water-efficient appliances, you're not only helping to prevent water pollution but also lowering your water bills and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Frequently asked questions