Ways To Reduce Water Pollution: Tips For Clean Water

Water pollution is a pressing issue, with water resources getting contaminated at a higher rate due to the growing population and increased industrial production of harmful substances. While there is no single solution to this complex problem, there are numerous ways to reduce water pollution and protect this vital resource. This article will explore ten simple yet impactful methods individuals and communities can employ to decrease water pollution and safeguard our planet's precious water sources.

Properly dispose of toxic chemicals

To properly dispose of toxic chemicals, it is important to understand the types of hazardous waste and the potential consequences of improper disposal. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) categorizes hazardous waste into four main types: corrosive, toxic, ignitable, and reactive. Corrosive wastes can eat away at materials or living tissue, like battery acid. Toxic wastes, including pesticides, cleaning products, and paints, can cause illness or even death. Ignitable waste, such as gasoline and kerosene, can easily catch fire or burn. Reactive waste, including certain acids, can rapidly heat up or explode when mixed with water or air.

Improper disposal of hazardous waste can lead to serious environmental and health issues. When dumped in landfills, toxic chemicals can leak into water supplies and cause air pollution. Pouring them down the drain can contaminate septic systems and wastewater treatment systems, ultimately polluting water sources. Burning hazardous waste can release poisonous fumes and contribute to air pollution.

To ensure proper disposal, follow these guidelines:

• Check with your local community or waste management authorities for specific instructions and collection programs. Some communities have designated days or permanent collection sites for hazardous waste.
• Always follow the instructions and disposal directions provided on product labels.
• Never mix hazardous waste with other products, as this can lead to dangerous reactions.
• Store hazardous waste in their original containers with the labels intact. Keep them in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
• Recycle or reuse certain products when possible. For example, used motor oil can often be recycled at local garages or gas stations.
• Reduce your purchase of products containing hazardous chemicals, and opt for environmentally friendly or natural alternatives whenever possible.

Avoid using the toilet as a bin

Flushing items that shouldn't be flushed down the toilet can cause blockages in sewage lines. This means the sewage system cannot function properly, and water cannot be cleaned efficiently in wastewater facilities or a septic tank.

To avoid this, only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Do not flush wet wipes, diapers, tissues, wrappers, dust cloths, or other paper goods. Fibre-reinforced cleaning products should also never be flushed.

If you have a septic tank, it is important to note that they are designed to treat sewage by separating solids from liquids. Septic tanks degrade solids and allow liquids to flow into drainage systems via biological processes. Using a septic tank reduces water pollution by removing pollutants already present in the water. However, if the septic tank becomes overloaded with items that should not be flushed, it can cause the system to malfunction, leading to water pollution.

In addition to avoiding the use of the toilet as a bin, it is also important to be mindful of what goes down the sink or drain. Do not dispose of household chemicals, cleaning agents, or fats and grease from cooking down the sink. These can cause blockages and contaminate local water bodies. Instead, collect fats and grease in a "fat jar" under the sink and discard them with other solid waste.

Reduce plastic waste

Reducing plastic waste is a critical step in combating water pollution. Plastic waste is a significant issue, with over 8 million tonnes of plastic entering our oceans annually, and it is predicted to outweigh fish by 2050. Plastic waste not only harms marine life but also degrades water supplies. Here are some ways to reduce plastic waste and improve sustainability:

• Use alternatives to plastic: Opt for reusable items such as utensils, grocery bags, water bottles, and food storage containers. Reusable items can be made from materials like cloth, stainless steel, or glass. These alternatives are more environmentally friendly and often more durable than single-use plastic items.
• Shop locally and buy unpackaged produce: Support local farmers and businesses by purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables that are not wrapped in plastic. Buying unpackaged produce reduces the amount of plastic waste generated and also encourages sustainable practices in the food industry.
• Buy organic and natural care products: Choose organic, natural, and environmentally friendly personal care products, such as toothpaste, shampoo, and body wash. These products often use less plastic packaging and avoid harmful chemicals that can contaminate water supplies.
• Reduce water usage: Limit your daily water consumption to contribute to reducing water pollution. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shampooing your hair, and fix any leaking faucets or pipes to prevent water waste.
• Properly dispose of plastic waste: Ensure that all plastic waste is disposed of responsibly. Recycle plastic items whenever possible, and avoid littering or improperly disposing of plastic items that can end up in waterways and oceans.
• Support anti-plastic pollution initiatives: Get involved with organisations working on anti-plastic pollution initiatives, such as beach or river clean-ups, plastic recycling programs, or advocacy campaigns. Your support can help expand anti-plastic pollution efforts and create a more sustainable future.

By implementing these practices, we can significantly reduce plastic waste and minimise its impact on our water systems. Remember, small changes can create a ripple effect, leading to a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone.

Treat wastewater

Wastewater treatment is an essential process to reduce water pollution. It involves removing impurities from wastewater before it reaches natural bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, estuaries, and oceans. Here are some detailed instructions on treating wastewater:

Understand the Sources of Wastewater

Wastewater can come from various sources, including domestic, industrial, and storm sewage. Domestic sewage carries used water from houses and apartments, while industrial sewage is wastewater from manufacturing or chemical processes. Storm sewage, or stormwater, is runoff from precipitation that collects in pipes or open channels. Understanding the sources of wastewater helps in designing effective treatment processes.

Implement Centralized Sewage Treatment Plants

Centralized sewage treatment plants are large, complex facilities that treat wastewater on a large scale. They employ physical, biological, and chemical processes to remove impurities. The construction of these plants began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the UK and the US, to address the issue of surface water pollution caused by direct sewage discharge.

Separate Stormwater from Wastewater

In the early 20th century, new sewage-collection systems were designed to separate stormwater from domestic wastewater. This separation prevents treatment plants from becoming overloaded during periods of wet weather, ensuring that all wastewater is adequately treated.

Employ Advanced Treatment Technologies

Wastewater treatment plants use different technologies to remove impurities. Primary treatment involves physical processes like screening, comminution, grit removal, and sedimentation to remove floating or settleable solids. Secondary treatment utilizes biological processes, such as trickling filters or activated sludge systems, to remove soluble organic matter and suspended solids. Tertiary or advanced treatment methods can remove more than 99% of impurities, producing water that is almost drinking-water quality.

Optimize Treatment Processes

Optimization is a cost-effective approach where treatment plants adjust their operations and repurpose existing equipment to remove additional nutrients. This can result in cost savings by reducing energy demand and treatment chemical usage. Optimization may involve strategies such as enhancing nutrient removal technology or upgrading equipment to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus loads in discharges.

Maintain and Upgrade Treatment Systems

Regular maintenance of wastewater treatment systems is crucial to ensure proper functioning. Municipalities should invest in upgrading treatment systems to enhance their capacity to remove nutrients and pollutants. While upgrades can be expensive, they can pay for themselves over time and improve the overall efficiency of the treatment process.

Manage Septic Systems Effectively

Septic systems are commonly used for onsite wastewater treatment in suburban and rural areas. Homeowners should regularly inspect and maintain their septic systems to prevent them from becoming a source of nutrient pollution. This includes pumping the tank as necessary, using water efficiently, and avoiding the disposal of household hazardous waste into sinks or toilets.

Cut down on pesticides and herbicides

Pesticides and herbicides are often laden with chemicals that can contaminate water bodies, causing harm to aquatic life and ecosystems. Here are some ways to cut down on pesticides and herbicides:

Choose Organic Alternatives

Select organic produce over conventional options. Organic foods are typically produced with fewer synthetic chemicals, reducing the amount of chemical pollution that ends up in water sources. This includes buying organic fruits and vegetables, as well as opting for organic meat, as the antibiotics and solid waste from livestock can contaminate groundwater and rivers.

Reduce Lawn Chemicals

If you have a lawn or garden, opt for landscaping that is adapted to the climate. Choose plants that can thrive with minimal chemical assistance. This will reduce the amount of chemical fertilisers and pesticides that run off into water bodies. Trees are a great option as they reduce erosion that washes pollution into the water.

Properly Dispose of Chemicals

Do not dispose of pesticides, herbicides, fertilisers, motor oil, or other automotive fluids into sanitary sewer or storm sewer systems. These chemicals can contaminate rivers and other water bodies. Instead, dispose of them properly at designated hazardous waste collection sites or community recycling centres.

Use Non-Toxic and Biodegradable Products

When purchasing household products, opt for non-toxic and biodegradable alternatives. This includes cleaners, pesticides, and other products that do not contain persistent and dangerous contaminants. By choosing these options, you can avoid introducing harmful chemicals into the water supply.

Wash Produce Thoroughly

When buying conventional produce, wash it thoroughly before consumption. Rinse, rub, or scrub fruits and vegetables under running water to help remove pesticide residue. You can also soak them in a solution of baking soda and water, which has been found to be effective in reducing pesticide residue.

Frequently asked questions