Ways To Combat Water Pollution And Save Our Planet

Water pollution is a pressing issue that requires collective action from communities, citizen groups, and individuals. While the main culprits of water pollution are plastics, industrial waste, pesticides, bacteria, and fertilizers, there are several ways to reduce and prevent water pollution. This includes proper disposal of hazardous household items, reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers, installing water-efficient toilets, and preventing polluted runoff. Small, everyday changes can create a ripple effect of positive impact, and it is important to recognize that human activity plays a significant role in aquatic environment pollution.

Reduce plastic consumption and reuse or recycle plastic items

Reducing plastic consumption and reusing or recycling plastic items are essential steps in combating water pollution. Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue, with the United States being the largest contributor to plastic waste globally. Here are some ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastic items to mitigate water pollution:

Reduce Plastic Consumption

• Conduct a waste inventory: Before reducing plastic consumption, it is helpful to understand the types and amounts of plastic waste you generate. Take an inventory of the plastic items you throw away, especially single-use items like coffee cups or water bottles.
• Bring your own reusable bags: When shopping, bring your own bags to reduce the use of plastic bags.
• Minimize plastic packaging: Opt for products with minimal or no plastic packaging. For example, purchase unpackaged fruits and vegetables, ask for meat to be wrapped in paper instead of plastic, and choose glass bottles over plastic ones for drinks.
• Support eco-friendly restaurants: Patronize restaurants that have partnered with environmental initiatives to reduce plastic waste. These restaurants often use compostable or reusable utensils, to-go containers, and cups to minimize single-use plastic waste.

Reuse or Recycle Plastic Items

• Switch to reusable alternatives: Instead of single-use plastic items, invest in reusable versions, such as a reusable water bottle, beeswax paper instead of plastic wrap, and glass or metal storage containers.
• Properly recycle plastic waste: Familiarize yourself with your local recycling program to understand which types of plastic can be recycled. Check with your local waste collection agency or use online tools like recycling locators to ensure you're recycling as much plastic as possible.
• Advocate for plastic reduction: Contact your local policymakers and support legislation that encourages the reduction of plastic use. Spread awareness and advocate for collective action to address plastic pollution.

Remember, any progress made towards reducing plastic consumption and properly reusing or recycling plastic items contributes to the larger goal of mitigating water pollution.

Dispose of chemicals, oils, and non-biodegradable items properly (not down the drain)

It is important to dispose of chemicals, oils, and non-biodegradable items properly. These substances can have a detrimental impact on the water supply and the environment if they are not handled correctly. When cleaning chemicals, medicines, or oils reach a water supply, they can be difficult to remove. As a result, these substances should be avoided when flushing or draining them.

Oils, in particular, can solidify and clog pipes, hindering water flow and leading to costly repairs and wasted water. Additionally, motor oil and other automotive fluids should not be disposed of into sanitary sewer or storm sewer systems as they can contaminate rivers and other water bodies.

Instead of draining or flushing, place these products in sealed, leak-free containers and discard them in the trash. It is important to note that hazardous household waste disposal regulations may vary depending on your location, so be sure to check your local guidelines.

Furthermore, it is essential to reduce or eliminate the use of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, as these can pollute water supplies with toxic chemicals. When used on crops, lawns, and gardens, these substances can be washed away by rainwater and enter groundwater, ultimately affecting local waterways.

Properly disposing of prescription and over-the-counter medications is also crucial. These drugs should not be flushed down the toilet or poured down the sink, as they can pass through treatment systems and enter rivers and lakes. Instead, take advantage of pharmaceutical take-back programs that offer safe and environmentally-conscious ways to dispose of unwanted medicines.

Install water-efficient toilets and showerheads

Water-efficient toilets and showerheads are a great way to reduce water pollution and conserve water. Here are some ways to implement this strategy:

Install Water-Efficient Toilets

Standard toilets use a significant amount of water per flush, which can be reduced by installing water-efficient models. Modern water-efficient toilets use less water per flush, typically by utilising a more effective flushing mechanism. This simple switch can lead to substantial water savings over time.

If you are unable to install a new toilet, there is a simple DIY solution to reduce water usage in your current toilet. Place a brick or a half-gallon container filled with water in the toilet tank. This will displace some water, resulting in reduced water usage per flush without affecting the toilet's functionality.

Choose Water-Efficient Showerheads

Traditional showerheads can use a large volume of water, especially if they deliver a powerful stream. Water-efficient showerheads are designed to use less water while still maintaining a satisfying shower experience. They achieve this by incorporating water-saving features such as flow restrictors or aeration, which mix air with water to provide a steady, efficient flow.

Additional Tips for Water Conservation

In addition to installing water-efficient fixtures, there are other simple habits you can adopt to save water and reduce pollution. These include using porous pavement like gravel instead of asphalt, as it allows rainwater to recharge groundwater supplies. When cleaning outdoor areas, opt for a broom instead of a hose, and minimise car washing or use a car wash that recycles water.

Furthermore, be mindful of what goes down your drain. Oils, grease, chemicals, and medications should not be poured down the drain, as they can contaminate water supplies and harm the environment. Properly dispose of these substances by placing them in sealed, leak-proof containers and throwing them in the trash.

Cut down on pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers

Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers are all chemicals that can be harmful to the environment if not used and disposed of properly. These chemicals can contaminate water sources, harm wildlife, and negatively impact biodiversity. Here are some ways to cut down on their use:

Reduce and Limit Usage

It is important to use the minimum amount of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers necessary. Several studies have shown that reducing or stopping the use of these chemicals can have positive effects on the environment, including increased biodiversity and the health of plants, soil organisms, and birds. For example, a replicated study on arable fields in Austria found that fields with no pesticides or fertilizers had a greater diversity of ground beetles than those with conventional chemical applications.

Alternative Methods

Consider using alternative methods to manage pests, weeds, and fertilize the soil. For example, mechanical weed control, such as hand-pulling or using a hoe, can be effective and avoids the use of herbicides. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is another approach that focuses on long-term prevention of pests through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and resistant varieties.

Proper Disposal

It is crucial to properly dispose of unused or unwanted pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Do not pour them down the drain or into storm sewers, as they can contaminate water systems. Many states have programs or pick-up dates for the safe disposal of these chemicals. For example, in Montana, the Department of Agriculture has special pesticide pick-up dates throughout the year for farmers and homeowners. Always keep pesticides in their original containers with the labels intact, which provide important information on proper handling and disposal.

Water Conservation

In addition to reducing the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, individuals can also cut down on water pollution by adopting water conservation practices. This includes using porous pavement, such as gravel, instead of asphalt to allow rainwater to recharge groundwater supplies. Other simple actions include using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways or sidewalks and washing your car less frequently or at a car wash that recycles water.

Use drought-tolerant plants and grasses for landscaping

Water pollution is a pressing issue, and there are many ways to contribute to its prevention. One such way is to use drought-tolerant plants and grasses for landscaping.

Drought-tolerant landscaping is an attractive and viable alternative to water-intensive lawns. Water-wise plants require fewer resources and less maintenance. Many ornamental grasses are drought-tolerant and require little supplemental water once established. These grasses differ from their moisture-loving lawn-grass relatives and are a great option for those looking to reduce water usage.

There are several drought-tolerant plants and grasses that are perfect for landscaping. Blue fescue, for example, is a dwarf ornamental grass that provides year-round interest with its evergreen foliage and elegant wheat-colored seed heads. It is a great choice for edging walkways or borders and contrasts well with darker-foliaged plants. Bugleweed is another option that grows in a wide range of conditions and can be controlled by planting in challenging sites and withholding water. It has long-blooming flower spikes in shades of blue, white, or pink and is low maintenance, making it perfect for those who want a water-wise landscape with minimal effort.

For those looking for a more colourful option, Black-eyed Susan is a drought-tolerant perennial with long-blooming daisy-like flowers in rich tones of gold, bronze, and brown. It is deer-resistant and a good choice for those looking to keep deer away from their gardens. The Arizona Apricot blanket flower is another colourful option, with bright red, orange, coral, and yellow flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. This short-lived perennial thrives in dry, sunny conditions and lean soil, making it perfect for rock gardens or curbside strips.

Drought-tolerant landscaping is a great way to reduce water usage and contribute to water pollution prevention. By choosing plants and grasses that require less water, you can create an attractive landscape that is both water-wise and low maintenance.

Frequently asked questions