Steps To Reduce Water Pollution: Actionable Strategies

Water pollution is a pressing issue that poses serious health risks to humans and harm to aquatic life. It is caused by a range of factors, including plastics, industrial waste, pesticides, bacteria, and fertilizers, with human activity contributing to almost all pollution in aquatic environments. To reduce water pollution, individual actions can be taken, such as reducing plastic use, properly disposing of toxic chemicals, and conserving water. Additionally, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and green agriculture practices are effective solutions to reduce pollution in all bodies of water.

Dispose of toxic chemicals properly

Properly disposing of toxic chemicals is crucial for reducing water pollution. Many household chemicals, such as cleaning agents, motor oil, medications, and pesticides, can be extremely harmful if they end up in water bodies. Here are some essential guidelines to ensure proper disposal:

Avoid Draining Chemicals Down the Sink or Toilet:

Never pour household chemicals, cleaning agents, or medications down the drain or flush them down the toilet. These substances are designed to kill bacteria and break down substances, and when released into water bodies, they can have the same detrimental effects on aquatic life and ecosystems. Always dispose of these chemicals in sealed, leak-proof containers and place them in the trash.

Check with Local Authorities:

Contact your local public works department, sanitation department, or environmental health department to inquire about hazardous waste disposal. Many cities have designated hazardous waste collection days or programs. If your city doesn't, you can request that they initiate one. This way, you can ensure that your community has a safe method for disposing of toxic chemicals.

Separate and Seal:

Before disposing of toxic chemicals, ensure that you do not mix different products together. Mixing certain chemicals can lead to unwanted chemical reactions and the creation of even more toxic substances. Keep them separate and seal them tightly in their original containers or appropriate disposal containers.

Properly Dispose of Motor Oil:

Motor oil and other automotive fluids should never be poured down the drain or into storm drains. These oils can solidify and clog pipes, leading to costly repairs. Instead, take used motor oil to a nearby auto parts store, recycling center, or service station for recycling. Many of these places accept used motor oil for free, ensuring it is properly recycled rather than contaminating water sources.

Compost or Mulch Yard Waste:

Instead of using chemical fertilizers, consider composting or mulching your yard waste. Composting grass clippings, leaves, and other organic materials creates a natural fertilizer that is safe for the environment. If you do use chemical fertilizers, be cautious when applying them. Avoid doing so before it rains, as the chemicals will wash into storm drains and nearby waterways. Sweep any fertilizer that lands on paved areas back onto the grass.

Reduce plastic waste

Reducing plastic waste is crucial to tackling water pollution, as plastic is one of the main culprits of water pollution, along with industrial waste, pesticides, bacteria, and fertilizers. Here are some detailed and direct actions that can be taken to reduce plastic waste and, in turn, water pollution:

Reduce Single-Use Plastic Consumption

The easiest and most direct way to reduce plastic waste is to cut down on single-use plastics. This includes plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, dry cleaning bags, takeout containers, and any other plastic items designed for one-time use. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth grocery bags, water bottles, coffee cups, and utensils. Refuse single-use plastic items whenever possible, and encourage businesses to offer sustainable alternatives.

Support Anti-Plastic Legislation

Individual actions are important, but they must be coupled with legislative changes to effectively combat plastic pollution. Support and advocate for legislation that curbs plastic production, improves waste management, and holds plastic producers accountable for their waste. This includes initiatives like the 2021 Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act in the United States and the global plastics treaty enacted by the United Nations.

Boycott Microbeads

Microbeads, tiny plastic particles found in some beauty and hygiene products like facial scrubs, toothpaste, and body washes, are a significant source of plastic pollution. These microbeads slip through water-treatment plants and are often ingested by marine animals. Opt for products with natural exfoliants like oatmeal or salt, and be cautious when purchasing cosmetics, as many contain microplastics.

Reuse and Recycle Plastics

Maintain and repair plastic products to extend their lifespan and reduce the need for replacements. When possible, buy second-hand plastic items or purchase products made from recycled plastic materials. Recycle all plastic waste that you can, but be sure to check with your local recycling program to understand which types of plastic they accept.

Reduce Plastic Packaging

When shopping, bring your own reusable bags and try to buy items with minimal packaging. Choose products in non-plastic packaging whenever possible, such as glass jars instead of plastic containers. For food storage, use stainless steel or glass containers instead of plastic Tupperware to avoid contaminating your food with microplastics.

Refill and Reuse Drink Containers

Instead of buying bottled drinks, bring your own water bottle or thermos and refill it as needed. Consider installing a filter on your water tap at home and refilling bottles with filtered water. Buy drink mixes in bulk and fill your reusable bottles, rather than purchasing multiple small drink bottles.

Avoid Unnecessary Plastic Utensils

When ordering takeout or eating at restaurants, ask them to leave out plastic utensils and other single-use plastic items that you don't need. Wash and reuse plastic utensils when possible, but be aware that plastic utensils are rarely recyclable.

Organize and Participate in Cleanups

Get directly involved in removing plastic waste from oceans and waterways by participating in or organizing beach or river cleanups. This can be done individually or by joining local organizations and international events dedicated to fighting plastic pollution.

Support Non-Profit Organizations

Many non-profit organizations are actively working to reduce and eliminate plastic pollution. Consider supporting these organizations through donations or volunteering, as they rely on public support to continue their important work.

Remember, reducing plastic waste is not just about the environment; it's also about protecting human health and the health of marine life. By taking these actions, you can help create a ripple effect of positive change and contribute to cleaner water.

Conserve water

Conserving water is an important step in reducing water pollution. Here are some ways to conserve water and reduce pollution:

In the Bathroom

• Install a water-efficient showerhead (2.5 gallons or less per minute). Taking shorter showers and drawing less water for baths can also help reduce water usage.
• When buying a new toilet, opt for a low-flow model (1.6 gallons or less per flush).
• Check your toilet for leaks by placing a little food colouring in the tank and seeing if it leaks into the bowl.
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and shaving.

In the Kitchen

• Compost food scraps instead of using a garbage disposal in your sink.
• Keep a gallon of drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap for cold water.
• Only use your dishwasher and washing machine for full loads. Wash clothes with warm or cold water instead of hot, and hang them out to dry when possible.

Outdoors

• Install a drip-irrigation water system for valuable plants.
• Use drought-tolerant plants and grasses for landscaping and reduce grass-covered areas.
• Cut your grass at least three inches high to shade the roots, making it more drought-tolerant. Keep your lawnmower blades sharp for the healthiest grass.
• Water your lawn or plants in the evening or early morning to minimize evaporation.
• Use porous pavement (such as gravel) instead of asphalt for driveways and walkways. This allows rainwater to recharge groundwater supplies instead of running off and contributing to erosion.
• Wash your car less often, or wash it at a car wash that recycles water. If washing your car at home, use a bucket of soapy water and a hose with a spring-loaded nozzle.

Install a water-efficient toilet

Water-efficient toilets are an effective way to reduce water pollution and conserve water resources. Upgrading to a modern, water-saving toilet can not only benefit the environment but also offer improved performance and lower utility bills for homeowners. Here's a comprehensive guide on why and how to install a water-efficient toilet.

Water-saving toilets have a significant environmental impact by reducing water consumption and easing the burden on municipal water systems. According to Princeton University, modern toilets use 1.6 gallons per flush, while water-efficient models can use as little as 1.1 gallons, a substantial improvement over older toilets that can use up to 7 gallons per flush. This reduction in water usage directly translates to less water being wasted, treated, and polluted.

Additionally, water-efficient toilets often incorporate advanced flushing mechanisms that deliver improved performance compared to older models. They also contribute to lower water bills, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for homeowners.

Preparing for the Installation:

Before you begin the installation process, it's important to gather the necessary materials and tools. These include a new water-saving toilet, an open-ended adjustable wrench, brass tank bolts, a tank-to-bowl gasket, a new toilet seat, closet bolts, a wax ring, a mini hacksaw, and caulk. It is also crucial to research local plumbing codes and regulations to ensure your new toilet installation complies with the standards.

Removing the Old Toilet:

The first step is to remove the existing old toilet carefully. Start by shutting off the water supply to the toilet, usually located to its left. Flush the toilet to drain the water and use a sponge and bucket to remove any remaining water from the tank and bowl. Next, disconnect the water hose from the tank, which can usually be done by hand. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the closet bolts on both sides of the toilet and remove the nuts and washers.

Carefully lift the toilet straight up and set it aside. Remove the wax around the flange with a putty knife, being sure to wear gloves. Inspect the closet flange and replace it if it appears broken. Take your time during this process to avoid damaging the plumbing connections or the floor.

Installing the New Water-Efficient Toilet:

Once the old toilet is removed, you're ready to install the new water-saving model. Begin by assembling the new toilet using the brass tank bolts and tank-to-bowl gasket provided with the new toilet. Attach the new toilet seat to the bowl. Insert new closet bolts into the flange and secure them with a new wax ring. Carefully place the toilet onto the flange, ensuring it sits firmly in the wax ring.

Add the toilet cap base to the closet bolts on both sides and secure the washers and nuts with the adjustable wrench, being careful not to overtighten. Use the mini hacksaw to cut the closet bolts close to the nut. Snap the toilet cap onto the closet bolt. Hand-tighten the water connection back to the toilet, and turn the water supply on.

Finally, caulk the area around the bottom of the toilet to ensure a secure and level installation. Double-check all connections, and flush the toilet several times to ensure it functions correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Even with a proper installation, you may encounter some issues with your new water-efficient toilet. Leaks, a running toilet, or a weak flush are common problems. For leaks, check all connections and tighten them if necessary. If leaks persist, you may need to replace the wax ring. A running toilet usually indicates an issue with the flapper or fill valve, which may need to be inspected and replaced.

For a weak flush, adjust the water level in the tank and check for any obstructions in the flush valve or trapway. If you encounter problems beyond these common issues, it's best to contact a licensed plumber for further assistance.

Avoid using the toilet as a wastebasket

Flushing the wrong things down the toilet can cause serious problems for wastewater treatment processes, clogging pipes and increasing maintenance costs. To avoid these issues, it is important to remember that only three things should be flushed: water, toilet paper, and human waste.

• Don't flush any household cleaning chemicals, medications, or products that contain grease or oil. Instead, dispose of them in sealed, leak-free containers in the trash.
• Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or tissues, even if they are marketed as "flushable." These products do not degrade quickly and can cause blockages in sewer systems.
• Don't dispose of hair, wrappers, toys, cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, rags, dental floss, cigarette butts, dust, dirt, lint, rubber gloves, bandages, plastic, condoms, underwear, or cat litter down the toilet. These items can clog pipes and damage wastewater treatment equipment.
• Use a trash can in your bathroom for proper waste disposal. This will help keep your drains clear and prevent blockages.
• Compost food scraps instead of using a garbage disposal in your sink. Food waste can mix with grease and other substances in sewer pipes, leading to blockages.
• Install a low-flow toilet when replacing your old toilet. This will reduce water usage per flush, conserving water and reducing the amount of wastewater that needs to be treated.

Remember, by properly disposing of waste and being mindful of what we flush, we can all play a part in reducing water pollution and protecting our environment.

Frequently asked questions