Water Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
Water Pollution
Introduction
Water pollution is defined as the alteration of water composition, hindering its natural properties. This global issue stems from the discharge of substances or energy that compromise water quality, impacting living organisms, human health, and ecosystems.
Origins and Types of Pollution
Diffuse Pollution
Originating from widespread sources, diffuse pollution lacks a specific point of origin and affects large areas.
Point Source Pollution
Stemming from a single identifiable source, point source pollution impacts a localized area.
Natural Contamination
Naturally occurring substances in water undergo chemical and biological processes, contributing to the water’s self-purification ability.
Urban Pollution
Domestic, commercial, and service activities generate wastewater containing fecal matter, food waste, and chemicals, contributing to urban pollution.
Agricultural Pollution
The use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture contaminates irrigation water, leading to agricultural pollution.
Industrial Pollution
Industrial activities release diverse materials and energy sources into water bodies, causing industrial pollution.
Anthropogenic Sources
Landfill waste, fuel remnants, industrial leaks, and oil spills contribute to anthropogenic pollution.
Factors and Levels of Contamination
The impact of pollution depends on several factors:
- Type of receptor: Surface water or groundwater
- Quantity and quality of the receptor: Larger volumes dilute pollution, while pre-existing low quality exacerbates the problem.
- Biocenosis characteristics: Presence of organisms capable of degrading organic matter.
- Dynamic or static characteristics: Influence the spread and purification potential of contamination.
Water Pollutants and Their Effects
Water pollutants encompass chemicals, organisms, or energy forms exceeding normal levels.
Overall Impact of Water Pollution
Pollution of Rivers and Lakes: Eutrophication
Erosion carries salts, organic matter, and suspended solids into rivers. Human activities further contribute to pollution, exceeding the rivers’ purification capacity. This leads to:
- Restrictions in water use
- Changes in aquatic life
- Unpleasant appearance and odor
Lakes, being static water bodies, are more susceptible to pollution. Pollutants disrupt the biological equilibrium, causing some species to disappear and others to overgrow. Eutrophication, an increase in primary productivity due to excess nutrients, is a prime example.
Red tides, caused by massive phytoplankton blooms, can occur in coastal areas, impacting fishing and shellfish industries.
Measures to Minimize Eutrophication
- Limit or prohibit domestic and agricultural discharge in sensitive ecosystems.
- Treat wastewater before release.
- Reduce polyphosphate content in detergents.
- Inject pure oxygen into affected lakes and reservoirs.
- Add nitrogen to prevent blue-green algae growth.
Groundwater Contamination
Groundwater faces pollution, depletion, and salinization. Contamination can be localized (point source) or widespread (diffuse).
Overexploitation of aquifers leads to lower water tables and reduced resource availability. In coastal areas, saltwater intrusion can occur, contaminating freshwater resources.