Strategies To Combat Water Pollution: Initiatives And Impact

Water pollution is a pressing issue that jeopardizes human health and the environment. It occurs when harmful substances contaminate water bodies, degrading water quality and rendering it toxic. To combat this, individuals, communities, and governments have implemented various measures to reduce water pollution and protect our precious water resources. From simple everyday habits to advanced treatment technologies, here's an overview of what's being done to tackle this global problem.

Install water-efficient toilets and showerheads

Water-efficient toilets and showerheads are an effective way to reduce water pollution. Toilets are the main source of water use in the home, accounting for nearly 30% of an average home's indoor water consumption. Older, inefficient toilets that use as much as 6 gallons per flush are a major source of wasted water.

Design improvements have allowed toilets to use 1.28 gallons per flush or less while still providing equal or superior performance. WaterSense-labeled toilets are independently certified to meet the EPA's criteria for both performance and efficiency. By replacing old, inefficient toilets with WaterSense-labeled models, the average family can reduce water used for toilets by 20 to 60%, saving nearly 13,000 gallons of water per year and more than $170 in water costs.

On a national scale, if all old, inefficient toilets in the United States were replaced with WaterSense-labeled models, we could save more than 260 billion gallons of water per year. Additionally, these water-efficient toilets can help reduce the strain on wastewater treatment facilities, which are often overwhelmed and release untreated wastewater into waterways.

Showering is another leading way we use water in the home, accounting for nearly 17% of residential indoor water use. Standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons of water per minute (gpm). Water-saving showerheads that earn the WaterSense label use no more than 2.0 gpm and provide a satisfactory shower experience.

The average family could save 2,700 gallons of water per year by installing WaterSense-labeled showerheads, as well as save on energy costs for heating water. If every home in the United States made this switch, we could save more than $2.9 billion in water utility bills and more than 260 billion gallons of water annually.

Water-efficient toilets and showerheads not only help reduce water pollution and conserve water but also lower utility bills, making them a cost-effective and environmentally sound choice.

Avoid using the toilet as a wastebasket

Water pollution is a pressing issue that poses a threat to both the environment and human health. While wastewater treatment facilities help reduce pollutants, it is crucial to proactively prevent water pollution at its source. One significant way to achieve this is by avoiding the use of the toilet as a wastebasket.

The toilet is designed to handle only specific types of waste, namely water, toilet paper, and human waste. Flushing down inappropriate items can have detrimental effects on the sewer system and the environment. For instance, materials such as hair, wrappers, toys, and feminine hygiene products can clog pipes, leading to backups and costly maintenance issues. These clogs can also damage homes and businesses, affecting not just the community's finances but their daily lives as well.

Additionally, certain items that should not be flushed down the toilet include expired medicines, disposable wipes, and old cleaning or personal care products. Pharmaceuticals, when flushed, can contaminate waterways and pose environmental and health risks. Despite the "flushable" label on some wipes, tests have shown that they do not readily degrade like toilet paper, causing serious problems in sewer systems. Similarly, household hazardous materials, such as antifreeze, batteries, motor oil, and cleaning products, should never be flushed as they can break down in water and release toxic chemicals into the environment.

To address this issue, it is essential to provide easily accessible trash cans in bathrooms and ensure their proper usage. These trash cans should be lined with garbage bags to facilitate convenient and hygienic disposal of waste. By encouraging the use of trash cans instead of toilets for waste disposal, we can significantly reduce the amount of inappropriate materials entering our sewer systems. This simple behavioural change can have a positive impact on reducing water pollution and protecting our environment.

Furthermore, it is important to spread awareness about the potential consequences of using the toilet as a wastebasket. Educating individuals about the types of waste that should and should not be flushed is crucial. By understanding the impact of their actions, people can make informed decisions and actively contribute to reducing water pollution. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a healthier future for our planet and ourselves.

Reduce plastic consumption and increase recycling

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, with plastic waste in the ocean already exceeding 150 million tons. The good news is that individuals can play a significant role in tackling this problem by reducing their plastic consumption and increasing recycling efforts. Here are some ways to achieve this:

• Avoid single-use plastics: Single-use plastics, such as straws, plates, and cutlery, are convenient but cause serious harm to the planet. Opt for reusable alternatives whenever possible.
• Bring your own bags: Instead of using plastic bags, bring your own reusable bags when shopping or running errands. Cloth, string, or wicker bags are more environmentally friendly options.
• Recycle chewing gum: Most chewing gum contains plastic. Reduce your consumption, and dispose of it in the correct recycling container. Natural and organic chewing gums are also available as alternatives.
• Buy in bulk: Avoid disposable containers by buying bulk foods and using your own containers. Many stores now offer the option to buy in bulk, reducing the need for unnecessary packaging.
• Choose glass or steel containers: Plastic containers can release harmful substances, so opt for glass or stainless steel containers for storing food.
• Use wooden pegs for laundry: Even small changes can make a difference. Using wooden pegs instead of plastic ones when hanging laundry is one simple way to reduce plastic consumption.
• Educate others: Spreading awareness about the importance of reducing plastic consumption can have a significant impact. Encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to join you in making these changes.
• Recycle properly: Ensure that your plastic waste goes into the correct recycling container. Pay attention to local recycling guidelines, as they can vary, and avoid "wish-cycling," which can clog up the recycling system.
• Choose plastic-free products: Opt for plastic-free alternatives whenever possible, such as cosmetics without microplastics, biodegradable brushes, and natural fabrics.
• Reuse packaging: If you must purchase plastic items, reuse the packaging instead of discarding it. Plastic bottles and containers can be reused multiple times, reducing the need for new plastic products.

By implementing these changes, individuals can play a crucial role in reducing plastic consumption and increasing recycling efforts, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable planet.

Properly dispose of chemicals, oils, and medicines

To reduce water pollution, it is important to properly dispose of chemicals, oils, and medicines. Here are some detailed and instructive guidelines for each:

Chemicals

When disposing of chemicals, it is crucial to follow the appropriate safety procedures to protect human health and the environment. Chemical waste includes toxins, corrosive liquids, and organic solvents, which can pose significant hazards. Schools and laboratories should have chemical hygiene plans or lab safety plans in place to guide the disposal process.

The first step is to identify the location of the chemical waste. Chemistry and biology laboratories are common sources of chemical and biological waste. The second step is to determine whether the waste is hazardous or non-hazardous, as this will dictate the handling and disposal methods. Refer to the manufacturer's Safety Data Sheet or check if the chemical is listed in the Resource, Conservation, and Recovery Act (RCRA).

All waste containing chemical solids, liquids, or containerized gases should be treated as hazardous waste. Spilled chemicals and cleaning materials are also considered hazardous waste. It is important to incorporate disposal instructions into laboratory activities to develop a culture of environmental responsibility and prevent accidents caused by inappropriate mixing of wastes.

When disposing of hazardous waste, use proper receptacles, such as HDPE-rated (High-density polyethylene) plastic containers with lids to prevent cross-contamination. Label and color-code the containers for liquid or solid chemical waste. Students should return any excess chemicals or waste to the appropriate location or dispose of them as instructed by their teacher.

Each hazardous waste container should be properly tagged with information such as the name of the chemical waste components, known hazards, and relevant dates and locations. When storing waste, ensure it is segregated into compatibility groups and kept in a closed container. If additional use is anticipated, it can be temporarily stored in the laboratory or chemical storeroom, but it should be clearly labeled and tagged.

For waste removal, some forms of waste can be processed and neutralized on-site, while others must be picked up and removed by a maintenance hazardous waste disposal program vendor. Ensure that chemical storage areas are equipped with spill control and containment equipment, as well as the appropriate types of fire extinguishers.

Oils

When disposing of cooking oils, it is important to never pour them down the drain, as they can clog pipes and contaminate water. Instead, let the oil cool completely and then pour it into a non-recyclable container with a lid before disposing of it in the garbage. Cardboard milk cartons, wax- or plastic-lined paper containers, and takeout containers are suitable options.

Alternatively, you can freeze or refrigerate the oil to harden it and then dispose of it in an old can or a coffee mug. Once the oil is solid, it can be thrown into the trash. For small amounts of oil, you can pour it into a partially filled plastic trash bag, ensuring it is cooled and the bag is closed. Absorbent materials like paper towels, food scraps, cat litter, sand, or sawdust can help contain the oil and prevent leaks.

Some cities offer collection programs for recycling used cooking oil into biodiesel. Check with your local solid waste department or online resources to see if there are specific recommendations or regulations for oil disposal in your area.

Medicines

The best way to dispose of expired or unused medicines is through a drug take-back program, which is often sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) or local law enforcement. These programs provide safe and responsible methods for disposing of unwanted medications. Check with your local community or pharmacist to find a nearby take-back location or a DEA-authorized collector.

If a take-back option is not readily available, some medicines may have specific directions to immediately flush them down the sink or toilet. Always check the label, patient information leaflet, or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) list of medicines recommended for disposal by flushing. However, it is important to note that flushing medicines can raise environmental concerns due to the presence of drug residues in surface water and drinking water supplies.

As a last resort, most medicines can be disposed of in the household trash. Remove the drugs from their original containers and mix them with undesirable substances like used coffee grounds, dirt, or cat litter to make them less appealing to children, pets, or those who may intentionally seek them. Place the mixture in a sealable bag or container to prevent leaks, and then throw it in the garbage. Remember to scratch out all personal information on the empty medicine packaging to protect your privacy.

Sweep fertiliser off paved areas

Water pollution is a pressing issue, with our rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and seas drowning in chemicals, waste, plastic, and other pollutants. The widespread problem of water pollution is putting our health at risk.

One way to reduce water pollution is to sweep fertiliser off paved areas. Fertiliser contains nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for crop growth. However, when they are not fully utilised by plants, they can negatively impact water quality. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus can be washed into waterways during rain or snowmelt and can leach into groundwater over time. This can lead to eutrophication, causing "dead zones" that kill fish and decrease aquatic life. It can also cause harmful algal blooms, which are toxic to both humans and wildlife.

• Timing is crucial: Sweep fertiliser off paved areas immediately after application or when you notice it has blown onto paved surfaces. Do not apply fertiliser before heavy rain or snowmelt, as this will increase the likelihood of runoff.
• Use the right tools: Opt for a broom or a mechanical sweeper to effectively remove the fertiliser particles. If using a broom, ensure it has stiff bristles that can capture small particles.
• Dispose of the swept fertiliser properly: Collect the swept fertiliser and dispose of it in a compost bin or garden waste disposal unit. Do not dispose of it down drains or toilets, as it can still find its way into waterways.
• Maintain a regular sweeping schedule: Establish a routine to remove fertiliser and other debris from paved areas. This will not only reduce water pollution but also improve the appearance and safety of the area.
• Consider natural alternatives: Explore using compost, natural fertilisers, or slow-release fertilisers that provide nutrients to the lawn gradually, reducing the risk of excess nutrients being washed away.
• Educate others: Spread awareness about the importance of proper fertiliser use and disposal to prevent water pollution. Encourage neighbours, local farmers, or community members to adopt best practices for fertiliser application and sweeping.

Frequently asked questions