Helena Joyce
Cleaning up polluted water is a costly, time-consuming, and rare endeavour, but it is not impossible. While government regulations and policies can help curb water pollution, individual actions can also make a significant difference in reducing and eliminating polluted water. This includes proper waste disposal, reducing the use of harmful chemicals, and supporting initiatives that promote clean water practices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Occurrence | Polluted Water is the most common naturally occurring liquid on most asteroids, especially in the Swamp Biome. |
| Creation | It is created when Duplicants don't reach a toilet in time, through stress-vomiting, as a by-product of certain amenities (e.g., lavatories, showers, wash basins, sinks, and algae distillers), and as a result of melting polluted ice in Frozen Biomes. |
| Effects | It emits Polluted Oxygen, even in a vacuum, and can negatively impact Duplicants by increasing their stress levels and causing sickness. |
| Removal | Methods to remove polluted water include dumping it into space, purifying it into clean water using a Water Sieve or Gulp Fish, isolating it in a cavern or reservoir, and using it as a coolant. |
| Utilization | Polluted Water is useful for growing certain plants (e.g., Pincha Pepper, Thimble Reed, and Arbor Tree) and as a resource for producing fertilizer and clean water. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a Bottle Emptier to store polluted water in a hole where CO2 accumulates
Polluted water is a common occurrence in the game Oxygen Not Included and can be a nuisance to players. It is created when duplicants do not reach a toilet in time or through stress-vomiting. It is also a by-product of certain amenities such as lavatories, showers, wash basins, and sinks. While it has its uses, such as acting as a coolant and being necessary for the growth of certain plants, it is important to manage it to avoid negative consequences.
One way to deal with polluted water is to use a Bottle Emptier to store it in a hole where CO2 accumulates. This method involves digging a hole, preferably in a cold area, and placing a Bottle Emptier over the hole. The polluted water can then be directed into the Bottle Emptier, which will dump the contents into the hole. This method can be especially useful if the hole is in a closed room, as the polluted water will eventually turn into polluted oxygen, which can be dealt with using deodorizers to convert it into clean oxygen.
It is important to note that this method may not be the most efficient way to deal with polluted water. Other methods include purifying the polluted water into clean water, using it for irrigation, or dumping it into space. However, dumping it into space is not recommended as it removes a potential resource from the game.
Additionally, there are ways to prevent the accumulation of polluted water in the first place. For example, players can use a third tank for recently sieved water, find a steam geyser for clean water, or use a water sieve to purify the water before it becomes polluted.
Overall, while using a Bottle Emptier to store polluted water in a hole where CO2 accumulates can be a viable option, it is important to consider the various other methods for dealing with and preventing polluted water to find the most efficient and beneficial solution for your game.
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Use polluted water as a coolant
Polluted water is a common issue in the game Oxygen Not Included. It is a breeding ground for bacteria, can make Duplicants sick, and pollutes clean water. It also emits polluted oxygen, even in a vacuum. While it is possible to simply dump polluted water into space, this is not recommended as it can be a helpful resource. For example, polluted water can be used as a coolant.
Polluted water can be used as a coolant for metal refineries. Any liquid can be used as a coolant, but there is a risk of the liquid boiling and bursting pipes. Polluted water can be pumped into a refinery and then dumped back into its source, but this only works for certain metals such as gold, copper, iron, and cobalt. If you are working with oil, you can use crude oil as a coolant to refine steel.
To make polluted water last longer as a coolant, it is recommended to start with cool water and work in batches to prevent overheating. Cycling polluted water through a full reservoir can also extend its usability. One user reported using polluted water from a cool slush geyser, which entered the refinery at 30°F and left at 140°F while refining gold, iron, and steel in batches.
It is important to note that polluted water is not a permanent solution as a coolant. Depending on the metal being refined, the polluted water can turn to gas within a few uses. Additionally, using polluted water as a coolant requires careful management to restrict its ability to infest water systems and the air. However, with proper handling, it can be a great way to utilize a nuisance resource.
If you are unable or unwilling to use polluted water as a coolant, there are other options for dealing with it. One method is to purify the polluted water into clean water using a Liquid Pump and a Water Sieve or by using Gulp Fish, which can convert polluted water into clean water. However, this process does not remove germs, so additional steps such as adding chlorine may be necessary to make it safe for drinking or bathing. Another option is to isolate the polluted water by pumping it into a cavern or reservoir and storing it for later use, such as for plant irrigation.
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Purify polluted water into clean water
Purifying polluted water into clean water can be done through several methods. Here are some of the most common and effective ways:
Boiling
Boiling is one of the most effective ways to kill disease-causing organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. The high temperature and duration of boiling are crucial for effectively killing these organisms. The recommended duration for boiling water depends on your altitude. If you're at an elevation below 6,500 feet, bring the water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute. For elevations above 6,500 feet, boil the water for at least 3 minutes. After boiling, cover the container and let it cool before drinking.
Filtration
Filtration is an effective and economical method of water purification. It removes large compounds and small, dangerous contaminants that can cause diseases. Multimedia filters are particularly effective in ridding water of these harmful substances. Additionally, filtration doesn't deplete all the mineral salts, making the filtered water healthier compared to water purified by other methods.
Chemical Treatment
Chemical treatment is another way to purify water. Chlorine, iodine, and chlorine dioxide tablets or drops are commonly used for this purpose. However, caution must be exercised when using these chemicals, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions. For example, iodine and chlorine may not be safe for pregnant women or those with thyroid issues. Always consult a physician or follow the instructions on the product label before using any chemical disinfectant.
UV Light Purification
Portable UV light purifiers can be used to reduce bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in water. These devices are effective for small quantities of clear water and require correct contact time and regular charging. Homeowners also have the option to install household UV purification systems that connect directly to their plumbing for a constant supply of potable water.
Gulp Fish
In the context of the game "Oxygen Not Included," it is mentioned that Gulp Fish can convert polluted water into clean water. This method, however, doesn't remove germs, so a secondary step, such as adding chlorine, is necessary to make the water safe for drinking or other purposes.
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Use polluted water to grow plants
Polluted water can be used to grow plants, but it is important to exercise caution. While it is true that some plants require polluted water to grow, the specific effects of polluted water on plants vary depending on the type of pollutants present in the water.
Water pollution can sometimes cause an explosion of new plant growth by providing necessary nutrients and food. For example, nitrogen and phosphorus in agricultural runoff can lead to blooms of growth. However, too much growth can be harmful, as in the case of plant-like algae blooms, which create oxygen-depleted dead zones. One way to mitigate this issue is to plant seaweed farms in areas that receive a lot of farm runoff, as seaweed can absorb excess nutrients and be harvested for consumption.
It is important to note that water pollution can also harm or kill plants by changing their growing conditions, such as by raising or lowering the environment's acidity. For instance, acid rain, caused by atmospheric sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, can lower water pH levels, killing plants that cannot tolerate more acidic conditions. Additionally, plants can absorb toxic chemicals through their roots, leading to phytotoxicity, which is characterized by poor growth, dying seedlings, and dead spots on leaves. An example is mercury poisoning, where mercury compounds accumulate in plant roots and bodies, leading to bioaccumulation in the food chain.
When using polluted water for plant growth, it is crucial to consider the possible contaminants. If the water is contaminated with heavy metals such as lead or cadmium, or industrial chemicals such as PCBs and dioxin, it is not advisable to use it for irrigation. In such cases, isolating and storing the polluted water, or purifying it through methods like boiling or filtration, may be more suitable options.
Overall, while polluted water can be used to grow certain plants, it is important to carefully manage it and consider the potential benefits and drawbacks based on the specific pollutants present.
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Trap a hatch or two in a basin, pump in polluted water, then leave for the hatches to eat
Gulp fish can be used to convert polluted water into clean water. However, if you don't have access to gulp fish, there are other methods to get rid of polluted water. One way is to use a liquid pump to pump the polluted water into a water sieve. This process does not remove germs, so you will need to add a bit of chlorine to make the water safe for drinking or bathing. If you don't have the means to purify the water, you can isolate it by pumping it into a naturally occurring cavern or a carved-out reservoir. This method allows you to get the polluted water out of your base while still holding onto it for later use, such as for plant irrigation. Another option is to dump the polluted water into space, but this removes a potential resource that could benefit your Duplicants.
Trapping a hatch or two in a basin and pumping in polluted water is a creative way to utilise the unique abilities of hatches to purify water. While the exact mechanism of how hatches purify water is not yet fully understood, their effectiveness is undeniable. By leaving the polluted water with the hatches, the water will gradually be cleaned and purified, making it safe for various uses.
Hatches are known for their remarkable capacity to consume polluted water and play a crucial role in maintaining the water quality in their habitat. They possess an innate ability to filter and purify water, breaking down harmful substances and contaminants. This process not only removes impurities but also helps restore ecological balance to their environment.
The basin acts as a confined space where the hatches are introduced. By pumping in polluted water, you are providing a source of nourishment and an opportunity for the hatches to demonstrate their water-purifying capabilities. The number of hatches trapped in the basin depends on the volume of polluted water you intend to treat. A single hatch can effectively purify a substantial amount of water, but having two or more hatches ensures a more efficient process.
Over time, as the hatches consume the polluted water, their digestive systems work to break down the contaminants and purify the water. This natural process allows the water to become safe for various uses, including irrigation, industrial processes, or even drinking water, depending on the initial level of pollution. The purified water can then be accessed from the basin, providing a valuable resource that contributes to the sustainability and well-being of your colony.
It is important to note that while hatches are effective at purifying water, they may not remove all types of germs or contaminants. Therefore, additional treatment steps, such as chlorination or boiling, might be necessary to ensure the water is completely safe for sensitive applications, such as drinking or cooking.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some ways to prevent water pollution:
- Minimize the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.
- Do not dispose of chemicals, motor oil, or other automotive fluids into sewer systems.
- Do not flush pills, liquid or powder medications, or drugs down the toilet.
- Avoid using a garbage disposal.
- Landscape with native plants to reduce stormwater runoff.
- Become an informed voter and vote for responsible land use and conservation policies.
Cleaning up polluted water can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some ways to address it:
- Obtain grants to pay for restoration projects.
- Work with farmers on drainage improvement projects and adopt conservation practices.
- Upgrade wastewater treatment facilities to include tertiary treatment processes to remove pollutants like phosphorus.
- Pump polluted water into a separate location and ensure the pump is near the surface to draw clean water.
Here are some ways to reduce water pollution in your home:
- Properly dispose of medications and drugs instead of flushing them down the toilet.
- Minimize the use of detergents and bleach when washing clothes or dishes.
- Reduce the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in your yard.
- Service your septic system regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
