10/2/10 by Gordo

I remember being shocked when I learned that only one percent of water on this earth is available for human consumption. And because of companies dumping chemicals into our water sources, individuals throwing garbage into bodies of water near urban areas, and chemical runoff polluting our groundwater, the amount of clean water available to humans is quickly decreasing. Not only is there less drinking water for us, wildlife are going extinct and ecosystems are being destroyed.

For me, being green used to mean shopping with a reusable grocery bag and driving a Prius. But I have started to take more drastic measures in my everyday life to reduce my consumption and prevent pollution of all kinds, including water pollution. I realize that water is one of our most important resources and although people act like there’s an endless supply of it, the truth is that clean water is becoming scarce because of water pollution and overconsumption. If you are as passionate as I am about making a difference, here are 5 ways you can prevent water pollution at home:

1. Use less water

This might sound simplistic, but decreasing your water consumption is one of the keys to minimizing water pollution. By reducing the amount of water you use, you will reduce the amount of water that flows into sewage treatment systems.
You can decrease your water consumption by taking a shower instead of a bath, letting it mellow if it’s yellow (i.e. don’t flush the toilet every time you urinate), turning the water off while you’re brushing your teeth, and using natural landscaping so you don’t have to water your lawn.

2. Use environmentally-friendly household products

Don’t use household products that contain chemicals. Instead, use green products, like biodegradable soap and all-natural toiletries. To clean your house, stop using bleach and chemical cleaners and use vinegar instead.

3. Apply natural pesticides and fertilizers

The use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers leads to water pollution because contaminated water seeps into ground water and runs off into nearby water sources. Natural pesticides that you can use include insecticidal soap and pyrethrum. Natural fertilizers include wood ash, grass clippings, and animal manure.

4. Don’t litter

Avoid littering in rivers, lakes, and oceans. If you’re really feeling motivated, gather a group of friends and family members to clean up litter on the beach and near other bodies of water. Make sure that you dispose of the litter in an appropriate waste disposal area.

5. Dispose of toxic products with care

Make sure to dispose of toxic products, such as paints, solvents, and polishes, in the proper area. Don’t pour them down your drain. Better yet, avoid toxic products altogether and use environmentally friendly products instead.

As you can see, there are a variety of things that ordinary citizens can do to prevent water pollution. It is everyone’s responsibility to take the steps necessary to lessen water pollution and prevent it from causing further damage to our delicate ecosystems.

Personally, I decided to take an active role in preventing water pollution. While I can’t see the immediate impact of my actions, it feels great to do what’s in my power to make a difference. And the coolest part is that my friends and family members who see me are motivated to do the same. Taking actions to end water pollution empowers both individuals and their respective communities.
If you’d like to learn more about how you can prevent water pollution in your everyday life, stay tuned. We’ll be reviewing several environmentally-friendly products and water conservation methods right here on Green Gordo.

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