What is Water Pollution?
The term ‘water pollution’ generally refers to changes in water quality usually as a result of human activities. It is the contamination of any body of water with materials that are considered harmful to human health and to the environment.
Sources of Water Pollution
- Untreated sewage.
- Surface run-off containing pesticides or fertilizers.
- Surface run-off containing spilled petroleum.
- Surface run-off containing silt.
- Discharge of contaminated and or heated water from industries.
- Excess nutrients added by run-off containing detergents.
- Underground storage tank leakage, leading to soil contamination and eventually groundwater contamination.
Effects of Water Pollution
- Spreads diseases.
- Affects vital body organs.
- Causes toxic build-up in the food chain.
- Kills aquatic life.
- Causes algal bloom.
- Causes flooding.
- Threatens sea birds.
- Reduction of water quality & loss of use of water sources.
How can you help prevent Water Pollution
- Dispose of wastes properly. Do not throw wastes into drains and rivers.
- Do not use excess fertilizers.
- Clear clogged drains. This will prevent flooding and the breeding of mosquitoes.
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