Even though we don’t think about it much, the stuff we use around the home can make its way back into our water sources. Chemicals used outside only has one way to go, and that’s down. You might be thinking it will just go away into the dirt, but that is the big problem that we, as homeowners, need to solve because we are potentially introducing pollutants to not only the environment but also our water sources as well.
Pollutants we use and are allowed to soak into the dirt will eventually get washed by the rain, and that can help transport the contaminants to areas where we don’t want it to. So before you do something outside your home that involves chemicals, and other pollutants, you might want to take a step back and consider how that might negatively impact the environment, and ultimately, yourself. Consider these everyday tasks around the home that can potentially lead to pollution and find out how to help minimize the risks of contributing to pollution.
Pets
I know, it’s a little hard to believe but having a pet can lead to pollution. Aside from the fact that pet wastes can carry diseases and harmful bacteria. When uncontained pet waste is allowed to soak in and mix with rain, it can lead to stormwater pollution. This can, in turn, harm you, other people, and even your pet.
What can you do to help minimize the chances of contributing to this problem? You can pick up pet wastes when you’re out for that walk. Place them in a clean bag and dispose of them properly. Around the home, pick them up and discard them properly in bags.
Automotive Repairs and Maintenance
For the DIYers who prefer to fix it themselves, deciding to fix it yourself can cause pollution problems. Cars and other automobiles use are sorts of fluids that is just bad for the environment. Motor oil, for example, is capable of polluting over 200,000 gallons of water with only one quart’s worth of engine oil. Other fluids include radiator fluid, brake fluid, and heck, even washer fluid.
What can you do to help reduce pollution caused by your DIY car maintenance and repairs? Just be careful. Don’t let engine oil spill. When you’re changing the oil, use a pan that is large enough. That way, oil doesn’t go anywhere, but the pot. Once you’re done, use a funnel to carefully pour the old oil into containers that can be closed to prevent spills. When you’re pouring new fluids into the car, remember to use a clean funnel to avoid spills.
If you do accidentally spill something, make sure to clean it up as quickly as possible. The longer you let it sit, the more likely it will make its way into the earth and cause pollution. You might also wish to see some protective cover underneath your work area. A thin sheet of plastic or even cardboard will help.
Washing Outside
Who knew that cleaning your car could lead to introducing pollution into the storm water system (and thus, polluting your very own water sources). Don’t worry; you don’t have to stop washing things outside. There are some things you can do to help reduce the chances of contributing to pollution.
- Use less water.
- Use a broom to clean up whenever possible. Not only will this reduce the chances of pollution, but it will also help save on water.
- Was your car while it’s parked on the grass. This doesn’t stop detergents and such from entering the earth. However, it does help reduce the flow of our stormwater
These are just some examples of the many things that can lead to unknowingly polluting your local water sources. Do you feel strongly that there is some stuff you can do to help prevent further pollution that needs to be on this list? If you do, please make sure tell us about it.