Water Pollution

Causes of Water Pollution

Agricultural

Sewage and Wastewater

Oil Pollution

Radioactive Substances

Transboundary Pollution

Farm runoff

Pesticides and fertilizers

Nutrient pollution

Domestic sewage

Industrial discharges

Stormwater runoff

Oil spills

Everyday vehicle emissions

Land-based sources

Uranium mining

Nuclear power plants

Military weapons testing

Categories of Water Pollution

Where is the Pollution Coming From?

Point Source Pollution

Industrial discharges

Leaking septic systems

Oil spills

Nonpoint Source Pollution

Agricultural runoff

Stormwater runoff

Transboundary Pollution

Type of Water Being Impacted

Groundwater Pollution

Aquifer contamination

Contaminants leaching from landfills

Impact on drinking water

Surface Water Pollution

Rivers, lakes, and streams

Nutrient pollution

Impact on aquatic life

Ocean Water Pollution

Contaminants carried from land

Marine debris

Ocean acidification

Effects of Water Pollution

On Human Health

Waterborne pathogens

Disease transmission

Chemical pollutants

Lead contamination

On the Environment

Eutrophication and dead zones

Algal blooms

Marine debris and harm to wildlife

Ocean acidification

Preventing Water Pollution

With Your Actions

Reduce plastic consumption

Properly dispose of chemicals and nonbiodegradable items

Maintain your car

Eco-friendly landscaping

Medication disposal

Pet waste cleanup