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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by Tort Defenders’ writers and staff and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney.
Water is our most abundant natural resource, and it is also one of the most important. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), each American uses an average of 82 gallons of water a day, and yet 42% of household wastewater is not treated properly, according to the United Nations. Water is vital for the survival of every living thing, so when it becomes polluted it can have devastating ecological effects.
There are many potential sources of water pollution. Though some are natural, many are exacerbated or even caused by human activities. Agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and even accidental oil spills can all lead to water pollution. Understanding the types and causes of water pollution can help you understand where it comes from, and respond appropriately if exposed.
1. Groundwater Pollution
Groundwater pollution is when contaminants get into water stored in aquifers and other underground sources. This type of water pollution has many potential sources, since nearly any activity where chemicals or waste can be released into the environment poses the risk of polluting groundwater. Common causes include industrial waste disposal, septic system leaks, and agricultural runoff.
The exact effects of the pollution depend on the specific pollutant. For example, water that has been contaminated by bacteria or viruses can cause diseases like hepatitis. Water that contains chemicals such as herbicides can cause cancer.
Controlling and preventing this type of pollution requires a concerted effort from a number of parties, depending on the source. For instance, industrial waste requires proper disposal and waste management from those companies. Contamination from septic leaks requires proper maintenance and care of septic systems. Government regulations such as the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act also help to control, reduce, and manage water contamination.
If you suspect your groundwater may be contaminated, it’s a good idea to have it tested, particularly if you use well water. Water filtration systems can also be helpful in avoiding direct use of contaminated water.
2. Surface Water Pollution
Bodies of water on the earth’s surface, such as lakes, oceans, and rivers, can become polluted through industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, sewage, and atmospheric events like acid rain. Surface water pollution can reduce water quality and cause harm to aquatic ecosystems.
Pollution of surface water could potentially be addressed through a combination of stricter regulations on industrial discharge, improved wastewater treatment facilities, and the reduction of pesticides and fertilizer use. It’s also important to support initiatives that promote public education on proper disposal of household chemicals.
3. Suspended Matter
Contamination of suspended matter occurs when small solid particles remain in suspension within water. This comes from soil erosion, construction waste, mining, and algal growth. Some of these sources of pollution could be reduced or minimized with improved construction site management and erosion control measures like vegetated buffers.
Suspended matter in water can harm wildlife and increase the cost of treating water for safe use. Floating particles and substances in water can also reduce the water’s aesthetic value in addition to the damage to the environment.
4. Oil Spillages
Oil spills occur when crude oil or refined petroleum products get released into water bodies. This is often due to oil extraction and refining, shipping or pipeline accidents, or improper disposal of used oil. Preventing and addressing this type of pollution requires measures like improved safety regulations for oil transport and storage, as well as proper disposal and recycling of used oil.
An oil spill can cause damage to wildlife and the overall ecosystem. They can be difficult to clean up, particularly if the source of an oil spill is deep underwater in an area that is not easily accessible.
5. Microbiological Pollution
Water can become polluted by harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms through inadequate sewage treatment or agricultural runoff that contains animal waste. Malfunctioning septic systems and the improper disposal of medical waste can also lead to microbiological pollution.
Microbiological pollution can cause diseases in people and wildlife, including waterborne illnesses such as hepatitis. Like with other sources of water pollution, control requires the cooperation of the types of businesses that could potentially release harmful substances into the environment. These organizations need to exercise proper waste disposal practices in order to reduce damage to the local ecosystem.
6. Chemical Water Pollution
Chemical water pollution is the general presence of synthetic or natural chemical compounds in bodies of water. These can come from accidental spills or improper disposal of chemicals like PFAS forever chemicals, or from harmful substances in agricultural runoff.
Improved regulations can help municipalities control and safely dispose of contaminants that could otherwise make their way into water sources.
7. Thermal Pollution
Water can also become polluted by heat due to a phenomenon known as thermal pollution. This often comes from water used for cooling operations within a power plant or industrial plant. A dramatic shift in water temperature due to thermal pollution can harm wildlife, and lead to depleted levels of oxygen.
The use of renewable energy sources can help to reduce a significant source of thermal pollution. Additionally, more efficient cooling systems in power plants and factories can help to minimize this environmental pollution.
8. Oxygen-Depletion Pollution
When contaminants like fertilizers, sewage, and industrial waste enter a body of water, they can reduce the oxygen level. This is known as oxygen depletion or hypoxia. This type of pollution can have natural sources, but — due to human activity — has increased in recent years, according to the EPA.
High levels of hypoxia can result in “dead zones” where the concentration of dissolved oxygen is too low to support life. In these cases, animals avoid or leave the area, while less mobile creatures may be unable to relocate and suffocate as a result.
9. Water Degradation
Water degradation is a general decrease in water quality due to any type of pollution or contamination. Water quality can become compromised by any of the above factors, resulting in negative health effects on people and the surrounding wildlife.
Low water quality can harm or infect people or animals who come in contact with or drink it. It can also prevent plant life from growing, which can further damage an ecosystem.
Water Pollution Resources
Many organizations exist to offer support, resources, and education regarding water pollution. Some prominent resources include:
- United States Environmental Protection Agency: The EPA provides resources and further information regarding water pollution sources and potential solutions.
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: This NIH page discusses potential waterborne diseases and provides fact sheets regarding the dangers of contaminated water.
- CDC Drinking Water: The CDC provides information regarding safe drinking water, including data, statistics, and resources for training and education.
Water pollution is an issue that requires a concerted effort from organizations, governments, and households to manage. If you suspect water is contaminated, it’s important to take proper precautions, either by alerting authorities or taking steps to get it tested.