Helena Joyce
Water pollution is a pressing issue that affects not only the environment but also human health and well-being. While it is often associated with agricultural pesticides and industrial contaminants, it is important to recognize that our at-home habits also play a significant role in this global problem. By making small changes in our daily lives, we can reduce water pollution and make a positive impact on the planet. This includes simple actions such as using water-efficient appliances, reducing the use of harsh chemicals, properly disposing of medications, and being mindful of how we use water in our daily routines. Let's explore some of these strategies in more detail and understand how they contribute to the larger goal of protecting our precious water sources.
What You'll Learn
Avoid pouring fats, oils, grease, and food scraps down the drain
Fats, oils, grease, and food scraps should never be poured down the drain. These substances can cause extensive damage to your drainage system, garbage system, and even sewer system by contributing to blockages. Fats, oils, and grease can solidify and stick to the walls of pipes, causing clogs and backups that can result in restricted water flow and sewage issues in your home. This can lead to costly plumbing repairs and property damage.
To properly dispose of fats, oils, and grease, allow them to cool and solidify. You can then scoop or wipe them into a disposable container. Once the container is full, seal it and place it in the trash. Alternatively, you can pour liquid grease into an aluminum foil-covered bowl and refrigerate it until it solidifies. Then, remove the foil from the bowl, wrap up the grease, and throw it away.
Food scraps can also be placed in the rubbish bin rather than disposed of down the sink. Some local governments, such as the Tauranga City Council, provide food scrap bins as part of their waste collection services. Composting food scraps is another option to divert them from the garbage disposal and reduce waste.
By disposing of fats, oils, grease, and food scraps properly, you can help prevent blockages and backups in your pipes and contribute to a healthier water system for your community.
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Don't flush household chemicals, cleaners, or medications
When it comes to reducing water pollution at home, it is crucial to avoid flushing household chemicals, cleaners, or medications down the toilet or sink. These items can cause significant harm to the environment and human health if not disposed of properly.
Firstly, flushing household chemicals or cleaners down the drain can create chemical pollution, leading to contaminated water. Many household cleaning products contain harmful chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs can irritate the eyes and throat, cause headaches, and contribute to respiratory issues. When flushed, these chemicals end up in the water supply, as most water treatment plants are not equipped to destroy or remove them from wastewater. Instead of flushing, take your household chemicals and cleaners to an approved disposal location, a local household hazardous waste recycling event, or a drop-off site. You can find information about your local solid waste management district online.
Additionally, medications should never be disposed of by flushing. Water treatment plants do not remove medications from wastewater, and flushing them can have harmful consequences, such as poisoning aquatic environments and increasing bacterial resistance to pharmaceuticals. Medications should be disposed of in their original, marked packaging at an approved location, such as a pharmacy. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult your pharmacist.
It is also important to note that mixing household chemicals can be extremely dangerous. Combining certain common household cleaners can produce highly toxic fumes or create corrosive products. For example, mixing bleach with vinegar can create chlorine gas, leading to respiratory issues, while bleach mixed with ammonia can cause shortness of breath and chest pain. Always read the caution labels on household cleaning products and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
By properly disposing of household chemicals, cleaners, and medications, you can play a crucial role in reducing water pollution and protecting the environment and public health.
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Reduce use of the garbage disposal
Reducing water pollution at home is essential to ensure access to clean drinking water and protect our local waterways from pollutants. While many think of agricultural pesticides or industrial contaminants as the primary sources of water pollution, our at-home habits also play a significant role.
One way to reduce water pollution at home is to limit the use of garbage disposals. Garbage disposals contribute to water pollution by allowing solid wastes to enter the water supply. Here are some ways to reduce your reliance on garbage disposals:
Compost Food Scraps
Instead of using a garbage disposal, consider composting your food scraps. Composting is an effective way to keep solids out of the water supply while also benefiting your garden. You can create a compost pile using food scraps, yard trimmings, and other organic waste. Adding compost to your soil increases water retention, decreases erosion, and provides nutrients for your plants. It is a more eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers and helps reduce the amount of organic material sent to landfills.
Throw Solids in the Trash
If composting is not an option, simply throwing solid wastes into the trash can is a better alternative to using a garbage disposal. This may include items such as vegetable scraps, eggshells, and coffee grounds. By disposing of these solids in the trash, you can help keep them out of the water supply and reduce the potential for water pollution.
Choose Eco-Friendly Alternatives
When purchasing products, opt for those with minimal or eco-friendly packaging. Look for items packaged in recyclable or compostable materials. By reducing the amount of waste generated, you can decrease the need for garbage disposals and contribute to a more sustainable environment. Additionally, consider buying second-hand items and donating used goods to extend the lifespan of products and keep them out of landfills.
Properly Dispose of Hazardous Waste
Avoid disposing of household chemicals, cleaners, or medications down the drain or toilet. These substances can create chemical pollution and lead to contaminated water. Instead, take them to approved disposal locations or local hazardous waste collection events. By properly disposing of hazardous waste, you can prevent it from entering the water supply and causing pollution.
Educate Yourself and Others
It is important to understand the impact of our daily habits on water pollution. Educate yourself about proper waste disposal methods and share this knowledge with others. Spread awareness about the negative consequences of garbage disposals on water quality and encourage friends and family to adopt more sustainable practices. Together, we can make a significant impact in reducing water pollution at home and protecting our precious water resources.
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Minimise use of detergents and bleaches
Minimising the use of detergents and bleaches is an important step in reducing water pollution at home. These products can contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate water sources and have negative environmental impacts. Here are some ways to minimise their use:
Use only what you need
When using detergents and bleaches for washing dishes or clothes, it is important to use only the minimum amount necessary. This not only reduces water pollution but also helps to conserve the product, reducing waste and the frequency of repurchasing. Check the instructions on the product packaging to determine the appropriate amount for your specific use case.
Choose phosphate-free and colour-safe products
When selecting detergents and bleaches, opt for phosphate-free options. Phosphates are a common ingredient in cleaning products but can contribute to water pollution, particularly the growth of algae in water bodies. Additionally, choose colour-safe or oxygen bleaches, which are generally gentler on fabrics and can be used on coloured clothing. These bleaches typically contain hydrogen peroxide, sodium perborate, or sodium percarbonate as their active ingredient.
Dilute with water
When using bleach, it is essential to dilute it with water before application. This not only ensures the product lasts longer but also helps to reduce its concentration, minimising potential negative effects on your health and the environment. Always follow the instructions on the bleach packaging for proper dilution ratios and never mix bleach with ammonia or ammonia-based products, as this can create dangerous gases.
Consider natural alternatives
Explore natural alternatives to bleaches, such as enzyme-powered stain removers or vinegar. These options can effectively tackle tough stains and whiten clothes without the potential toxicity and negative impact on the human microbiome associated with traditional bleaches.
Limit usage on certain fabrics
Avoid using bleach on delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, mohair, leather, and spandex. These materials can be easily damaged by bleach, leading to discolouration or deterioration of the fabric. Always check the care labels on your clothing to determine if it is safe to use bleach.
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Choose environmentally-friendly products
Choosing environmentally-friendly products is an important way to reduce water pollution at home. Here are some tips to help you make more sustainable choices:
Opt for Biodegradable and Non-Toxic Cleaners: When purchasing cleaning products, look for biodegradable and non-toxic options. These products are designed to minimise their environmental impact and reduce the risk of chemical pollution. Check out guides like the one offered by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of green product marketing and opaque labels.
Avoid Microplastics and Endocrine Disrupters: Microplastics and endocrine disrupters, such as PFAFS, are commonly found in toiletries and personal care products. These tiny plastic particles can contaminate water and have harmful effects on wildlife. Look for products that specifically state they are free from microplastics and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Choose Phosphate-Free and Environmentally Friendly Detergents: Phosphates are harmful chemicals found in many detergents that contribute to algae blooms and reduce the oxygen levels in water, leading to the death of fish and other aquatic life. Opt for phosphate-free detergents and environmentally friendly options whenever possible. While these detergents may be more expensive, they are a worthwhile investment in protecting our water sources.
Buy Sustainable and Non-Toxic Pesticides, Herbicides, and Fertilisers: Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers can contain toxic chemicals that can leach into water bodies and harm aquatic life. Look for biodegradable or non-toxic options, or consider natural alternatives like composting, manual weed removal, or using beneficial predatory insects for pest control. If you must use chemical products, follow the instructions carefully and avoid applying them near water sources or on non-porous surfaces.
Support Companies Selling Non-Toxic and Biodegradable Products: Vote with your wallet by supporting companies that sell non-toxic and biodegradable products. By choosing to spend your money on these products, you directly contribute to reducing the demand for harmful chemicals and incentivising companies to create more sustainable options.
In summary, choosing environmentally-friendly products is a powerful way to reduce water pollution at home. By opting for biodegradable, non-toxic, and phosphate-free options, you can minimise the impact of your choices on the environment and help protect our precious water sources.
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Frequently asked questions
Choose water-friendly cleaning products and avoid toxic chemicals like ammonia, bleach, and paint. Dispose of household chemicals and cleaning agents at an approved location or local household hazardous waste recycling event.
Do not flush pills, liquid or powder medications, or drugs down the toilet. Dispose of them in your community's medication disposal site or throw them in the trash. Avoid flushing unnecessary items down the toilet, such as tissues, wrappers, and other paper goods.
Avoid using herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers in your garden, as these can contaminate water sources. If you must use them, follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid applying them before rain or on non-porous surfaces. Sweep fertilizer back onto the grass if it gets on paved areas.
Reduce your use of plastic items and opt for recyclable or reusable alternatives. Do not pour grease, fat, or oil down the sink. Install water-efficient fixtures, such as showerheads and toilets, and adopt water-saving habits like taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.
Stick to an organic diet as much as possible to reduce chemical pollution. When buying meat, choose sustainable options over factory-farmed meat, and consider reducing your overall meat consumption.
