Water contamination occurs when hazardous materials, including biological and chemical substances, pollute a water source. The most common types are chemical runoff and waste materials. Industrialized nations have sophisticated purification systems, while developing countries may encounter contaminated water due to animal waste or household chemicals. Drinking polluted water can cause gastrointestinal upset, the spread of diseases, and sometimes death. To avoid contamination, hazardous materials should be disposed of properly, and anyone who witnesses pollution should contact their local environmental agency.
Water contamination is the term used to describe hazardous materials of any kind that pollute a water source. This could include both biological and chemical substances and the water source can be ponds, lakes, seas, oceans or reservoirs used for drinking and bathing by humans. The most common types of water contamination are chemical runoff from homes and businesses, and sometimes human or animal waste materials.
In industrialized nations, water contamination is much less common than in third world and developing countries. This is because sophisticated water purification systems are in place to clean waste materials from the water, disinfect it using chemicals, and then purify it so that it is safe for consumption. Areas that do not have these technologies may encounter contaminated water due to animal waste entering the water supply or household chemicals flowing from the ground into underground wells.
Most sources of water contamination in the industrialized world come from chemical pollution, either from the discharge of chemicals onto the ground or into sewers, or from accidental spills. Oil spills, for example, can occur from wells or ships and can contaminate water miles from the spill site. Industrial plants may also dump waste into water, although this is less common due to stricter government regulations regarding the disposal of hazardous materials.
Any harmful material entering the water could be considered a form of water contamination. Drinking polluted water has been linked to gastrointestinal upset, the spread of certain diseases, and sometimes death in severe cases. Parasites can also be present in dirty water supplies. When visiting developing countries, it is encouraged that tourists bring bottled water from another location to avoid drinking from local supplies.
Anyone who believes water contamination may be a problem in their area or who witnesses water pollution should contact their local environmental agency. Humans and animals should avoid contact with contaminated water, including for use in bathing or irrigation systems. Typically, if the water in a particular area is temporarily unsafe, a notice will be sent to the public.
To avoid water contamination that occurs from runoff into street or sidewalk drains, it is important to dispose of hazardous materials properly. Household cleaners should not be poured down drains unless they are specifically designed for that purpose, which is the case with toilet or shower cleaners. Engine oil, dead batteries and acid must be taken to the appropriate facilities for disposal. They can be found by contacting your local environmental agency or a retailer that sells the product in question.
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