Household Water Contamination: Unknown Pollutants In Your Home

Water pollution is a pressing issue that affects our oceans, lakes, and rivers. Human activity is a major contributor to water pollution, and even the smallest actions at home can have a significant impact on the environment. From the improper disposal of solid waste to the use of single-use plastics and toxic chemicals, our daily habits can have a detrimental effect on aquatic ecosystems. It is important to understand the potential pollutants that may enter the water from our homes and make conscious choices to reduce our environmental footprint. By learning about the unique qualities of our local water sources and adopting sustainable practices, we can play a vital role in protecting and preserving our precious water resources for future generations.

Solid waste

In developing countries, solid waste is mainly characterized by high density and moisture content. When this type of waste undergoes anaerobic decomposition in landfills, it produces landfill gas, which consists primarily of CH4 and CO2, along with small amounts of volatile organic compounds and other trace gases. Both CH4 and CO2 are greenhouse gases with global warming potential, and the global warming potential of CH4 is 25 times higher than that of CO2.

The improper disposal of solid waste, such as open dumping without selective collection, leads to high levels of pollution. This can directly or indirectly pose a significant danger to the environment, including soil, water, and sediment, as well as to living organisms and human health. The problem of waste management is particularly acute in developing countries that may lack the infrastructure or resources to properly dispose of solid waste or have inadequate regulations to prevent improper disposal.

Additionally, untreated municipal solid waste generates leachate, which reaches water bodies and affects various components of freshwater ecosystems. The continuous dumping of waste and its harmful constituents can lead to permanent degradation of these fragile ecosystems, with no chance of restoration.

Pesticides and herbicides

Pesticides are chemicals used to kill pests, including insects (insecticides), weeds (herbicides), and fungi (fungicides). They are commonly used in agriculture, homes, businesses, lawns, gardens, and on pets and livestock. Pesticides are designed to be toxic to their target pests, but they can also pose risks to human health and the environment if not properly managed.

Herbicides, specifically, are used to kill weeds and are often applied directly to the soil. They can be residual, meaning they are designed to bond to the soil structure, or soluble in water for easier application. The solubility of a pesticide in water increases its risk of leaching into water sources.

The improper use and disposal of pesticides and herbicides can lead to water pollution. For example, contaminated containers that are left exposed to rain can leak pesticides into the environment. Additionally, pesticides and herbicides can enter water sources through surface runoff, wastewater seepage, and flooding.

To prevent pesticide and herbicide contamination, it is important to select the appropriate products, follow proper mixing and loading procedures, and dispose of containers properly. It is also crucial to be aware of the unique qualities of the water in your area, such as its source, treatment methods, and the natural water bodies it flows into.

Some specific examples of herbicides and their impacts include:

• Atrazine: This herbicide has been banned in Europe due to health and safety concerns and its pollution of water sources. It has also been found to alter the genetic characteristics of frogs, causing male frogs to develop female organs.
• 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D): This chemical has been found to cause increased cell death in mouse embryos during a period corresponding to the first five to seven days after human conception.

Microplastics

The increase in time spent at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the work-from-home culture has led to higher exposure to indoor microplastics. Studies have found that indoor environments are contaminated with microplastics, with polyester being the most prevalent (81%), followed by PE (5%), nylon (3%), and other non-specified polymers (11%). Microplastics are shed from synthetic fabrics used in indoor clothing, furniture, carpets, curtains, and furnishings, leading to indoor air contamination.

The main source of microplastics in residential settings is the shedding of fibres from textiles, fabrics, and household wares. PET plastics, commonly found in textiles, fabrics, and plastic containers of cleaning products, are the most dominant type of microplastic. Microplastics have also been detected in cosmetics, paints, and other household products, further contributing to atmospheric microplastic pollution.

To address the issue of microplastic pollution, it is crucial to support regulations and infrastructure improvements. This includes advocating for the Clean Water Act and calling for investments in wastewater treatment, lead-pipe removal, and stormwater-abating green infrastructure. Additionally, reducing the use of single-use plastics and properly disposing of plastic waste can help mitigate the release of microplastics into the environment.

Bacteria and viruses

Wastewater from homes, including sewage, can contain bacteria and viruses, which are then discharged into water bodies if not properly treated. While modern sewage treatment plants have been effective in reducing water pollution, dispersed sources of pollution continue to contribute significantly to the problem. Domestic sewage is a primary source of pathogens, which are disease-causing microorganisms. Bacteria and viruses in sewage can originate from human and animal feces and pose a direct threat to public health.

Stormwater runoff is another way that bacteria and viruses can enter water bodies from homes. During storms, rainwater flows across impervious surfaces in urban and suburban areas, picking up contaminants along the way. Fecal and pathogenic bacteria, including E. coli and enterococci, have been found in high numbers in storm drains and creeks, eventually making their way into lakes and streams.

Improper waste disposal is a major source of water pollution, particularly in developing countries with inadequate infrastructure or regulations. Solid waste, such as garbage, trash, and electronic waste, can be intentionally or unintentionally dumped into bodies of water, carrying bacteria and viruses. Additionally, land pollution can become water pollution when waste is carried by animals, wind, or rainfall into water sources.

Overall, bacteria and viruses can enter water bodies from homes through various pathways, including wastewater, stormwater runoff, and improper waste disposal. These microorganisms pose a risk to human health, and efforts should be made to prevent their entry into water sources through proper treatment, infrastructure improvements, and waste management practices.

Organic chemicals

Consuming drinking water with high levels of organic chemicals can have adverse health effects. People who drink water contaminated with organic chemicals over a long period may suffer damage to their kidneys, liver, circulatory system, nervous system, and reproductive system. Some organic chemicals have been proven to cause cancer after prolonged exposure, while others are considered possible cancer risks. For example, consuming water with high levels of PCE or TCE over many years may increase the risk of liver problems and cancer. Atrazine may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and reproductive difficulties. DEHP has also been linked to liver problems, reproductive issues, and cancer.

The protection of freshwater ecosystems from organic pollutants is crucial for preserving biodiversity and the goods they provide to society, such as clean drinking water and recreation. Organic chemicals have been shown to negatively impact freshwater ecosystems, threatening the ecological integrity and biodiversity of water bodies. The presence of organic chemicals in water can also deplete the dissolved oxygen content, endangering the survival of fish and other aquatic organisms that require high levels of oxygen.

Frequently asked questions