Water is one of the essential substances in our world, and it has been so ever since the evolution of the earth. In fact, many have classified water to be life, and rightly so too, because almost every living thing depends on water to survive. But it is also general knowledge that water is only safe for consumption when it is clean. Now you see why it is disheartening to see that people are generally most responsible for most water pollution around the world.
Water pollution simply refers to the contamination of water sources by external substances that makes them unsafe for drinking and other uses like cooking, cleaning, irrigation, swimming, etc. This article will explain why it is essential to avoid water pollution and possible means to reduce this act.
Common Causes of Water Pollution
The causes of water pollution are numerous and often traced back to contaminations of different forms. Here are some of the commonest reasons why clean water is becoming hard to access around some parts of the world.
- Improper disposal of sewage
- Unauthorized disposal of radioactive waste products
- Rural and urban developments
- Oil spillages
- Chemical wastes from industries.
The PSA Group are specialists in the containment of hazardous spills.
Effects of Polluted Water
Today, we are experiencing a rapid rise in water contamination, leading to a global scarcity of clean water. Like it or not, nobody can survive without clean water. Hence, it is safe to say that the rise of water pollution is indeed doing us more harm than initially projected. Here are some known effects of water pollution.
- Lack of usable water
- Diseases
- Infant mortality
- Food contamination
- Reduced productivity
Proven Ways to Avoid Water Pollution
Finding solutions for this widespread water pollution counts for so much, and it starts with little steps. This is why we have put together a list of ways you can contribute to reducing this activity in your neighborhood.
- Proper disposal of toxic chemicals: Records show that the usage of household solvents, dirt-removal chemicals, and pesticides is at an all-time high. This is not necessarily an alarming stat considering the uses of these chemicals. But how we dispose of them afterward is what matters most, and doing it the right way can help reduce pollution.
- Proper disposal of oil and grease: Many people think it okay to pour home-used oil and grease down the drain, but this is as bad as it gets as far as water pollution is concerned. The best way to get rid of used cooking oils and grease is by submitting them to disposal agencies.
- Do not use harmful cleaners: Cleaning can be tricky without detergents, but do you know that the best detergents to use are phosphate-free ones. This detergent type helps to reduce the risk of water pollution significantly.
- Clear drains and pipes regularly: Sometimes, external particles can get into our pumps and water pipes, reducing the quality of water we get. These particles are also contaminators, and cleaning these water routes regularly will help you get rid of them.
Conclusion
The importance of clean water can never be overemphasized, but its availability is often threatened by pollution. This is why all hands must be on deck to reduce water pollution, and the ways to achieve it are highlighted in this article.
The PSA Group provide a range of environmental management services that include soil and water testing, polluted water transportation and disposal, and much more.
