Reducing Sewage Water Pollution: Strategies And Solutions

Water pollution is a pressing issue that jeopardises human health and safety. Unsafe water kills more people each year than war and other forms of violence combined, and waterborne pathogens from human and animal waste cause diseases such as cholera, giardia, and typhoid. Sewage pollution, in particular, poses a significant risk to human health and the environment. It is essential to address this issue and explore ways to reduce water pollution caused by sewage. Sewage overflows and spills can contaminate local waterways and the ocean, leading to harmful algal blooms, fish kills, and coral reef damage. This paragraph aims to introduce the topic of reducing water pollution caused by sewage and highlight the importance of finding effective solutions to protect both human health and the environment.

Properly dispose of household chemicals and automotive fluids

Properly disposing of household chemicals and automotive fluids is essential to reducing water pollution caused by sewage. Here are some detailed, instructive guidelines to ensure proper disposal:

Household Chemicals

Household hazardous waste includes products such as paints, stains, varnishes, cleaners, polishes, pesticides, herbicides, and automotive products. Improper disposal of these chemicals can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Here are some tips for proper disposal:

• Read product labels carefully and follow the directions for use, storage, and disposal.
• Only buy the amount you need to avoid excess waste.
• Contact your local waste management department or recycling center to inquire about specific disposal guidelines for hazardous materials.
• Explore recycling options for items like batteries, light bulbs, electronics, and automotive fluids.
• Reach out to the manufacturer if no disposal instructions are provided on the label.

Automotive Fluids

Automotive fluids, such as engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and antifreeze, require special attention when it comes to disposal. These fluids contain toxins that can contaminate water sources and harm the environment. Here are some guidelines for proper disposal:

• Never pour automotive fluids down the drain or into landfills.
• Recycle used automotive fluids by locating specialized recycling centers or auto parts stores that accept them.
• Store used fluids in leak-proof containers and keep them out of the reach of children and pets until you can dispose of them properly.
• Some automotive fluids can be burned off as fuel for energy recovery, but this should only be done in appropriate burning facilities that meet federal standards.
• Reuse certain fluids, like antifreeze, by storing them in sealed, labeled containers for future use.

By following these guidelines and disposing of household chemicals and automotive fluids properly, we can significantly reduce water pollution caused by sewage and protect our environment and health.

Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are one of the most common causes of sewer backups and overflows. When poured down the drain, they can build up on the inside of sewer pipes, eventually causing a blockage. As more wastewater is sent down the line, it puts pressure on the blockage, leading to a backup. In some cases, the blockage can be severe enough to cause an overflow, spilling sewage onto the ground or into homes and businesses.

FOG contributes to bigger issues for your neighbours, city, and the environment. When poured down the drain, it can build up in main sewer lines and cause them to clog. Sewage can back up into people's homes and businesses or even overflow into streets and rivers. Not only is this a huge health hazard, but it's also costly to clean up.

To prevent FOG buildup in your pipes, don't pour it down the drain. Instead, collect it in a sealable jar or container and dispose of it in the trash. You can also pour it into a resealable container, such as a glass jar, and allow it to cool before disposing of it. Another option is to use a food strainer to catch extra food bits that might go down the drain and dump them in the garbage or compost.

By properly disposing of FOG, you can help reduce water pollution caused by sewage and protect your drainage system, as well as the environment.

Install a water-efficient toilet

Installing a water-efficient toilet is an effective way to reduce water usage and lower your water bill. Water-efficient toilets use less water per flush compared to traditional models, with the most common types being low-flow toilets, dual-flush toilets, and pressure-assisted toilets.

Low-flow toilets use about 1.6 gallons per flush, while dual-flush toilets offer two flush options: a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. Pressure-assisted toilets, on the other hand, use compressed air to enhance flushing power while using minimal water.

When selecting a water-efficient toilet, consider the following factors:

• Flush Performance: Choose a toilet with a high MaP (Maximum Performance) rating, indicating effective flushing performance.
• Bowl Shape: Elongated bowls offer more comfort but may require more space. Round bowls are more compact and ideal for smaller bathrooms.
• Height: Comfort-height toilets are slightly taller than standard models, making them more accessible for older adults and individuals with mobility issues.
• Certification: Look for WaterSense certification, which guarantees the toilet meets strict water efficiency and performance criteria set by the EPA.
• Gather Your Tools: Ensure you have all the necessary tools, including a wrench, screwdriver, level, and wax ring.
• Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the shut-off valve near the toilet and turn it off to prevent water flow during the installation process.
• Remove the Old Toilet: Flush the toilet to drain any remaining water, then disconnect the water supply line and carefully remove the old toilet.
• Prepare the Flange: Clean and inspect the flange, the fitting that connects the toilet to the floor. Replace it if necessary to ensure it is in good condition.
• Install the Wax Ring: Place the new wax ring on the flange to create a watertight seal.
• Set the New Toilet: Carefully lower the new toilet onto the flange, ensuring it is properly aligned. Press down firmly to secure the wax ring in place.
• Secure the Toilet: Use bolts to secure the toilet to the floor and check that it is level to prevent wobbling.
• Connect the Water Supply: Reconnect the water supply line and turn on the water. Check for any leaks and test the flushing mechanism.
• Finish Up: Install the toilet seat and lid, and apply a bead of caulk around the base of the toilet for a neat finish.

By installing a water-efficient toilet, you can significantly reduce water usage, lower your water bill, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Avoid using the toilet as a wastebasket

Water pollution is a serious issue, with our rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and seas drowning in chemicals, waste, plastic, and other pollutants. Sewage and wastewater are significant contributors to this problem.

One way to reduce water pollution caused by sewage is to avoid using the toilet as a wastebasket. Here are some ways to do this:

• Don't flush anything other than the three P's: pee, poo, and toilet paper. This includes items such as hair, wrappers, toys, cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, rags, dental floss, cigarette butts, dust, dirt, rubber gloves, bandages, plastic, condoms, underwear, and cat litter.
• Properly dispose of expired medications. Do not flush them down the toilet or dump them in the trash. Instead, take them to a local drug take-back site.
• Avoid flushing "flushable" wipes, even if the packaging says it is safe to do so. These products do not degrade readily and can cause serious and costly problems in sewer systems.
• Don't pour grease, fats, or oils down the drain. Instead, pour excess grease into a container with a tight-fitting lid and throw it away on trash day.
• Keep a small trash can in your bathroom for items that can't go down the toilet, such as tissues and makeup wipes. This will help keep your space tidy, organized, and hygienic.
• Consider using sponges or rags instead of disposable wipes. These can be washed and reused, reducing waste.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help reduce water pollution caused by sewage and protect our precious water resources.

Properly dispose of medications

Water pollution caused by sewage can be reduced by properly disposing of medications. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure medications are disposed of correctly:

Firstly, never flush medications down the drain or toilet. This is because wastewater treatment plants are typically not equipped to remove medications, and these chemicals eventually get released into the environment when treated wastewater is discharged into nearby waterways.

If you have solid medications, such as pills or tablets, dispose of them by emptying them into a sealable plastic bag. Then, recycle the original container after removing or hiding all personal information from the label. For liquid medications, keep them in their original container.

Find your nearest disposal site and drop the sealed bag into the small, non-accessible opening. Alternatively, you can mail back your medication using a postage-paid envelope. Most disposal sites will not accept herbal remedies, vitamins, supplements, cosmetics, or other personal care products. It is also important to note that chemotherapy drugs and sharps, such as needles or syringes, may have separate disposal requirements.

If you cannot find a nearby disposal site, many pharmacies sell envelopes that you can fill and mail. These envelopes will be incinerated by the companies that sell them. Alternatively, if your garbage goes to an incinerator, you can dispose of your medications in the trash, but be sure to conceal the containers and their labels first.

By following these instructions, you can help reduce water pollution caused by improperly disposed of medications and protect both the environment and public health.

Frequently asked questions