POLLUTION AND HOW IT AFFECTS WATER

1 | 2

If you don't think pollution affects your life or are unsure just how, the best place to start is with your drinking water. Pollution of drinking water causes many deaths and much illness among urban residents all over the world. Particularly in developing countries, urban water supplies are often fouled with wastes, and clean water is scarce. A pall of atmospheric pollution hangs over many big cities, both in developed and developing countries. Sanitation design and use of water often play a major role. Water and Sanitation Urbanization can dramatically increase per capita use of freshwater.

The main source of freshwater pollution can be attributed to the discharge of untreated waste, dumping of industrial effluent, and run-off from agricultural fields. Industrial growth and urbanization is increasing the use of synthetic substances that have a serious impact on our freshwater bodies. The main problem caused by water pollution is the effect it has on aquatic life. Dead fish, birds, dolphins, and many other animals often wind up on beaches, killed by pollutants in their habitat. Pollution disrupts the natural food chain as well. Pollutants such as lead and cadmium are eaten by tiny animals. The tiny animals are consumed by fish and shellfish which continue to disrupt higher levels of the food chain. Eventually, humans are affected by this process when they consume seafood that has been poisoned. These bodies of water are highly polluted by humans and in result come right back to hurt us.

Groundwater can be contaminated through various sources, some listed below:

Pesticides: Run off from farms, backyards, and golf courses contain DDT that in turn contaminate the water. Leachate, the rainwater which becomes contaminated as it seeps through a coal pile, mine tailings or landfill can pose a significant threat to aquifers, rivers, lakes and watersheds if left untreated. These chemicals will travel through runoff water and end up contaminating our soil. Excessive use of fertilizers cause nitrate contamination of groundwater which is far above safely levels recommended.

Sewage: Untreated or inadequately treated municipal sewage is a major source of groundwater and surface water pollution in the developing countries. Sewage carries microbial pathogens that are the cause of the spread and disease.

Nutrients: Domestic waste water, agricultural run-off, and other activities that increase the levels of nutrients in water bodies can cause eutrophication. Good agricultural practices can help reduce the amount of nitrates in the soil which will reduce the amount in the water.

Synthetic Organics: In recent years, these synthetic compounds have been showing up more than ever in the aquatic environment. This affects the whole food chain and even humans who eat seafood.

1 | 2