Preventing Water Pollution: Simple Household Changes Make A Difference

Water pollution is a pressing issue, with human activity contributing to almost all aquatic environment pollution. The main causes of water pollution are plastics, industrial waste, pesticides, bacteria, and fertilizers. However, small changes at home can have a monumental impact on reducing water pollution. This introduction will discuss simple ways to reduce water pollution, from properly disposing of household chemicals to adopting more efficient water usage practices. Understanding the causes and consequences of water pollution is essential to finding solutions, and this introduction aims to provide a comprehensive overview of individual actions that can collectively make a significant difference.

Avoid using plastic food packaging

Plastic is one of the leading causes of water pollution. Plastic food packaging is a significant contributor to this, as it is often not recycled and ends up in landfills or oceans. Microplastics, which are tiny pieces of broken-down plastic, can enter water supplies and contaminate food and the environment.

Choose alternative packaging

When shopping, opt for glass, paper, or wax paper packaging instead of plastic. Avoid buying foods packed in multiple layers of plastic. For example, instead of buying apples wrapped in plastic, purchase loose apples or buy items like grains, lentils, vegetables, dry foods, fish, and poultry in loose quantities. If you have a garden, you can even try canning your own fresh produce to avoid plastic packaging altogether.

Reduce meat consumption

Non-recyclable plastic packaging is often used for meat and meat-based products. By reducing your meat consumption or opting for meat packaged in recyclable plastic, you can help decrease the demand for non-recyclable plastic.

Bring your own bags

Instead of using plastic bags at the grocery store, bring your own reusable bags. This simple switch helps reduce the amount of single-use plastic waste generated.

Refill and reuse

Look for stores that offer refill options for items like oils, vinegar, and spices. Bring your own containers to refill, reducing the need for new plastic packaging. Reusable containers are also a great way to store food at home, reducing the need for plastic wrap or bags.

Support sustainable businesses

Choose to shop at stores and supermarkets that prioritize sustainability and offer a wide range of plastic-free or recyclable packaging options. Your purchasing decisions send a strong message to businesses about the demand for eco-friendly packaging.

While it may be challenging to eliminate plastic food packaging entirely, these small changes can significantly reduce your plastic waste and contribute to cleaner water and a healthier environment.

Reduce water usage

Reducing water usage is an important way to reduce water pollution at home. Here are some ways to reduce water usage and, in turn, reduce water pollution:

Fix leaks and install water-efficient fixtures

Check your toilet for leaks by placing food colouring in the tank and seeing if it leaks into the bowl. Fix any leaks you find. When buying new fixtures, choose water-efficient options such as low-flow toilets (1.6 gallons or less per flush) and low-flow showerheads (2.5 gallons or less per minute). You can also put a brick or a plastic bottle in your toilet tank to reduce the water used per flush.

Change your laundry and washing habits

Wait until you have a full load before doing laundry or washing dishes. Use water-saving settings on your washing machine and dishwasher if available. If you're washing dishes by hand, fill up the sink instead of running the tap.

Reduce water usage in the garden

Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway or sidewalk. When watering plants, direct the water towards the soil instead of spraying it into the air, and water during the coolest parts of the day to reduce evaporation. Consider installing a rainwater tank to collect rainwater for your garden.

Be mindful of your water usage in the kitchen

Only run the dishwasher when it's full, and use the "light wash" setting for lightly soiled loads. Scrape food scraps into the compost bin instead of rinsing them down the drain. If you're washing dishes by hand, fill up the sink with soapy water instead of letting the tap run.

Shorten your showers

Keep your showers short and, if possible, reduce the water flow. You can install a water-efficient showerhead or use a spring-loaded nozzle to control the water flow.

Properly dispose of household chemicals

It is important to properly dispose of household chemicals to prevent water pollution. Many household chemicals, such as cleaning agents, medications, and products containing grease or oil, should not be disposed of down the sink or toilet. These products can be challenging to remove from water supplies and can cause environmental damage and health hazards.

Instead, place these items in sealed, leak-free containers and discard them in the trash. It is crucial not to mix different products before disposal to avoid creating toxic chemicals through unintended chemical reactions. Some municipalities offer hazardous waste collection days or other programs to facilitate the proper disposal of household chemicals. Check with your local waste management authority to understand the specific guidelines for your area.

Additionally, it is important to note that septic systems should be properly maintained. Failing septic systems can release untreated sewage, which can pollute local waterways. When draining a pool or hot tub, it is recommended to use a sanitary sewer connection or cleanout if available. If not, allow any chlorine to degrade by leaving the pool or tub uncovered in the sun before slowly draining the water.

Motor oil and other automotive fluids should also be properly disposed of. Avoid pouring these liquids into sewer systems, as they can contaminate rivers and other water sources. Contact your local waste management authority or refer to online resources, such as the "Drain Discharge Guide" published by the National Institute of Health, for guidance on proper disposal methods for specific types of household chemicals.

Maintain your septic system

Maintaining your septic system is crucial to prevent water pollution and protect local waterways. Here are some essential tips to ensure proper maintenance:

Firstly, it is important to note that certain substances should never be flushed down the drain or toilet. Medications, including pills, liquids, and powders, should never be disposed of in the toilet or drain. Instead, refer to guidelines for proper medical waste disposal. Similarly, avoid flushing household chemicals, cleaning agents, paints, and lawn chemicals down the drain. These substances can contaminate water and pose environmental and health risks.

Another critical aspect of septic system maintenance is the care of your drain field. Avoid covering the drain field with structures like sheds or patios, as this can damage pipes. Additionally, be mindful of what goes into your septic system. Never drain pools or hot tubs into the septic system. Instead, use a sanitary sewer connection if available, or let the chlorine degrade naturally by exposing it to sunlight before slowly draining it.

It is also essential to keep your septic tank functioning properly. Regularly pump and inspect your septic tank to ensure it effectively treats wastewater before it filters into the ground. Improperly treated sewage can create health hazards and pollute local water sources.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively maintain your septic system, contributing to cleaner water and a healthier environment for your community.

Adopt a storm drain

Adopting a storm drain is a great way to help reduce water pollution and keep your local rivers and streams clean. The process is simple and quick, and anyone over the age of 14 can do it (with parental consent for minors).

You can start by signing up online and choosing a storm drain near your home, school, or business that you will be able to easily take care of. Once you've adopted your drain, it's your responsibility to keep it clear of leaves, trash, and other debris. This can be done by raking or sweeping, and the frequency of cleanups may vary depending on the season and the condition of your drain—a monthly cleanup is generally recommended.

After each cleaning session, you can log in to your account and report the amount of debris you collected. This helps to track your impact and see the positive changes you're making. You can also keep an estimated total of the debris collected and enter it into your online account to gauge the cumulative results of your work.

Some common household tools you might need for this task include rakes, brooms, and trash bags. It's important to stay safe while cleaning your adopted storm drain, so be sure to follow any safety guidelines provided by the program.

By adopting a storm drain and keeping it clear of debris, you're helping to prevent water pollution and contributing to a healthier environment for your community.

Frequently asked questions