It is an established environmental fact, one that climate change advocates clearly agree upon, that water is extremely prone to contamination. Water is sometimes called a universal solvent because many substances are easily dissolved by it. This article lists the most commonly occurring situations that pollute water. Most of them can be mitigated, reversed or avoided with proper rules and regulations in place.

Industrial Waste

One of the major contributors to water contamination is waste from industries and manufacturing facilities. Many industrial sites release toxic water-soluble chemicals into nearby streams, rivers or other bodies of water without concern for nature or the consequences. Although some sites are regulated, the lack of sufficient oversight of proper waste management enables environmental negligence.

Agriculture

Despite serious resistance from the health-conscious community, farmers across the world still use chemicals and pesticides to fertilize their crops and protect them from insects and disease. These chemicals get released into groundwater, then flow into streams and rivers and eventually end up in the ocean.

Sewage Waste

Although many municipalities take precautions through proper treatment of wastewater and sewage, bacteria, pathogens and certain chemicals sometimes linger in the water. When released into fresh water or the sea, these substances cause pollution. In the hot summer, for example, the Colorado river running through Bastrop occasionally gets infected by bacteria. Additionally, bacteria in sewage water breeds diseases, resulting in health issues for both humans and animals.

Marine Waste

Dumping refuse into seawater is a common occurrence in many countries across the globe. Household waste and hazardous materials from businesses are brought to the ocean to be dumped and disposed of, resulting in the pollution of water and the death of various marine species. Some of these discarded items take up to 200 years to decompose.

Oil Spills

Oil spills are another major cause of water contamination. These spills are usually the result of the accidental release of oil, often occurring during transportation by ship. In addition, there are deliberate acts by industries and drilling companies trying to discard waste byproducts. In any case, oil coming into contact with water creates a hazardous situation for both marine life and the well-being of people living around the shores.

Radioactive Waste

Radioactive waste is considered to be the most dangerous of all materials that pollute water, and it should be treated as such. The fact that nuclear materials are almost impossible to eliminate once they are released into the environment makes the matter even worse. If not disposed of properly, nuclear waste can cause irreversible damage up and down the food chain.

Few companies bring to water treatment the expansive insights and services of Parobek Water Solutions. The team of professionals at our firm is deeply concerned about the earth and the people on it. We’re devoted to the practicalities of providing clean water to clients. We share an empowering blend of expertise, experience and techniques to supply them with water that is free from all contamination. If you’re interested in a water treatment system for your home in Austin, TX, contact us today.