Water Pollution: Australia's Troubled Waters

Water pollution is a pressing issue in Australia, with a range of natural and human-caused activities contributing to the problem. From industrial waste and oil spills to agricultural runoff and plastic pollution, Australia's waterways are under threat. The Great Barrier Reef, for instance, has been facing the adverse effects of water pollution, with agricultural runoff and excessive fertiliser use leading to algal blooms and reduced coral diversity. Bushfires, which have become more frequent due to climate change, also play a role in water pollution, as the altered soil structure and loss of vegetation cover can increase the risk of sediments and pollutants running off into waterways. Additionally, communities in dry regions of Australia rely on groundwater, which is susceptible to long-lasting contamination from toxic substances.

Industrial and household toxic chemical disposal

Water pollution is a pressing issue in Australia, with various sources, including industrial and household toxic chemical disposal, contributing to the degradation of the country's waterways. The improper disposal of toxic chemicals by both industries and households can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health.

Industrial Toxic Chemical Disposal

Industries in Australia use and produce thousands of toxic chemicals, including dioxin and heavy metals like mercury. These substances are extremely harmful to both wildlife and humans, even in small quantities. While industries are allowed to discharge materials and chemicals into the sewerage system, they must follow strict guidelines set by water authorities responsible for sewage treatment. However, there are instances when pumping stations malfunction or sewer pipes break, resulting in the release of untreated sewage into the environment.

Moreover, oil spills, whether accidental or due to illegal dumping, pose a significant threat to marine life as oil floats on the water's surface. Plastic pollution, particularly from the extensive use of plastic bags in Australia, also finds its way into the sea through stormwater drains, causing disastrous consequences for marine ecosystems.

Household Toxic Chemical Disposal

Households in Australia also contribute to water pollution through improper disposal of toxic chemicals and other hazardous waste. Items such as paint, cleaning products, aerosol sprays, chemicals, electronic waste, and batteries should never be disposed of in household bins or poured down drains, on the ground, or into sewers. These substances can contain toxic chemicals that, if released, can endanger both humans and the environment.

To address this, the NSW Government in Sydney has implemented the Household Chemical CleanOut program, offering free drop-off locations for hazardous household waste. Similarly, Canberra has designated drop-off points for hazardous items, including liquid waste, at the Mugga Lane and Mitchell Resource Management Centres. Additionally, Victoria hosts Detox Your Home events, where trained specialist chemists handle the disposal of toxic household chemicals.

Bushfires and rainwater tank contamination

Water pollution is a pressing issue in Australia, with various sources contributing to the problem. One significant concern is the contamination of rainwater tanks in bushfire-affected areas. Bushfires can severely impact water quality, especially when heavy rain follows a fire. The altered soil structure and lack of vegetation cover make it easier for sediments and pollutants to runoff into waterways, affecting drinking water, agricultural water, and aquatic ecosystems.

Sources of Contamination

Bushfires release debris, smoke, ash, and toxic chemicals, which, along with dead animals, aerial fire retardants, and water-bombing, can contaminate rainwater tanks. This contamination poses a risk to human and animal health, as the water may become unsafe for drinking, food preparation, or brushing teeth. It is recommended that residents in bushfire-affected areas use bottled water for drinking and other essential purposes if their rainwater exhibits unusual taste, smell, or appearance.

Preventative Measures

To prevent contamination of rainwater tanks, it is crucial to disconnect the downpipes from tanks when there is a fire risk. This action prevents windblown ash, debris, fire retardants, and water from water-bombing from entering the tank. Before reconnecting the downpipes, it is advisable to hose off the roof catchment area or wait for a good flush of rain to minimize the risk of contaminants entering the tank. Properly sealing tanks and installing first flush diverters, leaf stoppers, and gutter guards can also enhance protection.

Water Quality Management

The management of water quality in Australia is a shared responsibility between state and territory governments, local government councils, and regional organizations. These entities develop strategies to address water quality issues, guided by the National Water Quality Management Strategy (NWQMS). Additionally, specific guidelines and recommendations are provided to help water and land managers address challenges like acid sulfate soils, salinity, and blue-green algae blooms, which can negatively impact water quality and ecosystems.

Overall, bushfires and rainwater tank contamination are significant concerns in Australia, requiring proactive measures to safeguard water quality and protect human and ecological health.

Agricultural runoff and algal blooms

Australia is facing a growing problem with water pollution caused by agricultural runoff and the resulting algal blooms. This issue has various causes and consequences, affecting the environment, economy, and human health.

Agricultural runoff is a significant contributor to water pollution in Australia. It occurs when excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from fertilisers, livestock operations, and crop lands, wash into nearby water bodies. While the Australian government has implemented programs to assist farmers in reducing fertiliser runoff, the problem persists and, in some places, is worsening.

One of the primary consequences of agricultural runoff is the proliferation of harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms are often triggered by a combination of factors, including warm temperatures, slow water circulation, and excessive nutrients. HABs can produce toxins such as microcystin, which can cause adverse health effects in humans and animals. In Australia, a bloom containing potentially carcinogenic microcystein was found in Lake Hume, coinciding with census data revealing higher-than-average cancer rates in a nearby town.

Algal blooms can also have economic impacts. For example, blooms in Greece, Italy, and Spain have been estimated to cost these countries $355 million (300 million euros) annually. In Australia, a massive bloom in 2016 covered more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) of the Murray River, impacting tourism and recreation.

To address the issues of agricultural runoff and algal blooms, various strategies have been proposed. These include implementing agricultural conservation practices, such as crop rotation and cover crops, to reduce nutrient runoff. Additionally, there is a need for improved risk communication and management, especially in vulnerable populations, to ensure people can make informed decisions about their health and safety when interacting with affected water sources.

Sewage treatment plant breakdowns

Sewage treatment plants are an essential part of maintaining water quality in Australia. However, breakdowns can occur, leading to water pollution. While modern treatment plants have backup systems to prevent major pollution incidents, occasional breakdowns do happen.

One of the main causes of sewage treatment plant breakdowns is the incorrect disposal of items by households and industries. For example, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, baby wipes, and so-called "flushable wipes" can cause blockages in sewage systems, leading to potential breakdowns. Additionally, toxic chemicals and oils disposed of by industries can contaminate waterways, even in small quantities.

To prevent breakdowns, regular maintenance of sewage treatment plants is crucial. Homeowners with treatment plants are advised to service them every three months, as required by government legislation. This maintenance should be carried out by qualified technicians who can identify and fix minor issues before they become more serious and costly to repair.

Furthermore, the choice of cleaning products used by households can impact the health of sewage treatment plants. Homeowners are advised to use biodegradable and septic-safe products that are low in sodium and phosphorous. Avoiding bleach, chlorine, and antibacterial products can also help maintain the balance of beneficial bacteria in the system.

By following these maintenance and product choice guidelines, Australians can help reduce the risk of sewage treatment plant breakdowns and minimize water pollution.

Oil spills and plastic pollution

Plastic pollution, which also floats on the ocean surface, is a similar threat to oil spills, and is also largely caused by the fossil fuel industry. Plastic is derived from crude oil, and the production of plastic creates air and water pollution, with severe health consequences for local communities. Plastic pollution is poorly mapped, meaning that waste entering the ocean from land often goes unaccounted for. Every year, 11 million metric tons of plastics enter the ocean, and plastic has been found in over half of all seabirds and all species of sea turtles.

In Australia, plastic pollution is a significant issue, with Australians using around 3.9 billion plastic bags a year. Much of this plastic pollution ends up in the sea through stormwater drains. Globally, 100,000 marine mammals die each year as a result of plastic pollution, including whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions.

To reduce plastic pollution, a transition to a circular economy is needed, with industries providing and using packaging based on circular economic models. This would put pressure on polluters to take responsibility and reduce plastic pollution.

Frequently asked questions