Are You Polluting Your Own Tap Water?
Greentips: May 2003
Clean drinking water is a luxury we often take for granted. Yet, despite the most advanced sanitation and purification equipment, some seemingly harmless everyday practices can contaminate our water supply. Here are a few ways to be more careful:
1.) Avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers in your lawn or garden, which can be washed out by rain (known as runoff) and end up in nearby lakes and streams. If you do use chemicals, use the minimum amount needed.
2.) Use porous materials (such as wood, brick, and gravel) for decks, patios, and walkways. Unlike concrete, these materials soak up rain and help reduce runoff.
3.) Seek natural alternatives to cleaning products that contain toxic chemicals. If you buy commercial cleaning products, purchase those labeled "biodegradable" or "non-toxic." Avoid products containing chlorine bleach.
4.) Dispose of toxic waste properly. For example:
- Never pour motor oil, antifreeze, solvents, paint thinners, or other chemicals on the ground, into sewers, or down the drain.
- Use mercury-free or rechargeable batteries.
- Never pour unused medicines down the sink or toilet.
Ask your local government about recycling and disposal programs for toxic waste. Also, think ahead before purchasing toxic materials so you can avoid having to dispose of the leftovers.
5.) Incorporate water-efficient plumbing, appliances, and practices in your home. If you own a septic system, maintain it properly-septic system failures are a major source of groundwater pollution and can cause waterborne illnesses.
6.) Buy organic food whenever possible. Agriculture is the single biggest source of water pollution, but organic food crops are grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
7.) Volunteer with a community organization that monitors your watershed or participates in waterfront clean-up projects.
Now that you know how to protect your water supply, you should also know how to be sure the drinking water coming out of your faucet is safe. If you are connected to a public water supply, you have the legal right to request a yearly water quality report describing the source of the water, which contaminants are tested, and how the water is treated to reduce or eliminate these contaminants.
If you use well water or are connected to a private water supply, it is your responsibility to have your water tested regularly. If you have small children, test your water-regardless of the source-for lead, a contaminant that can cause neurological problems. Lead is present in some household plumbing and can contaminate your water even if the water supply is clean.
