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The importance of water -

The importance of high quality water cannot be overstated: water sustains life itself, and entire ecosystems depend on it for their survival.

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The problem -

Unfortunately, the water in many communities is becoming increasingly polluted. And people don’t always pollute their water knowingly, either.

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None the wiser -

In many cases people do not understand that their actions may be increasing water pollution and that they should really be doing things differently.

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Taking action -

In this gallery, we take a look at what individuals and families can do to prevent water pollution from their homes and workplaces. Not all of these tips are things that everyone must do, but there is something in here that everyone definitely can do.

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Avoid antibacterial soaps -

First up: avoid antibacterial soaps and cleaning products. Many antibacterial products contain a pesticide that is known to be harmful to marine life.

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Avoid antibacterial soaps -

If you are concerned about germs, fear not! Normal soaps and cleaning products will do the job just as well as antibacterial products.

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Don’t flush medicines -

As tempting as it may be, it is important that you do not flush any unwanted or unused medicines down the drain or down the toilet.

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Don’t flush medicines -

Not only does flushing meds pollute our water, it exposes us to chemicals! Be sure to drop off your unused medicines at a drug take back site, location, or program.

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Keep storm drains clear -

Just as you usually wouldn't put anything other than water down your drains at home, be sure not to throw anything down a storm drain that does not belong there.

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Keep storm drains clear -

As tempting as it may be to throw something, or empty a liquid, down a storm drain, it is important that you avoid this, since storm drains carry water to local waterways.

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Fix your car leak -

Leaking cars often get left out of the conversation when it comes to water pollution. But a car that leaks can pollute water just like anything else.

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Fix your car leak -

If you have a car that leaks, take it to the mechanic. You might also put a liner in your driveway to collect oil and other materials.

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Avoid pesticides -

If you are into gardening, try to be careful about the products you use on your plants and vegetables. Pesticides are a definite no-go.

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Avoid pesticides -

Chemical fertilizers, too, should be avoided wherever possible. A natural fertilizer, such as compost, is a much better bet if you’re looking to reduce water pollution.

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Choose non-toxic products -

When it comes to choosing which products to use around the home, it will come as little surprise to hear that non-toxic products are best.

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Choose non-toxic products -

There are plenty of non-toxic cleaning products on the market, so be sure to look out for these the next time you're out shopping.

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Pick up after pets -

Not only is it pretty antisocial to let your pets defecate in the street and not clean it up, it’s also very harmful to water quality.

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Pick up after pets - If you have a dog, be sure to clean up after it when you take it for a walk. The world will thank you, and not just because it keeps the water clean!

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Don’t pave your property -

This one is less obvious. If you are in the process of renovating, consider not paving your property.

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Don’t pave your property -

Pavement does not allow water to soak into the ground, meaning that it runs into drains, causing sewage systems to overflow and pollute rivers.

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Clean your well -

Again, this one is probably only relevant for a handful of people. But for those who do have a well, be sure to get it tested and cleaned on a regular basis.

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Clean your well -

It can be easy to let this task fall by the wayside, but it is important because bacteria can build up in wells, increasing water pollution.

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Educate yourself -

If you are looking to educate yourself further about water quality, you might like to read your local water quality report.

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Educate yourself -

Reading this report will mean that you are up to speed on the water quality in your area, and you can tailor your actions accordingly.

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Clean a local water source -

If you are looking for a group activity to enjoy during the warmer months, why not gather your friends and family and go to clean a local water source?

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Clean a local water source -

You could plan a picnic and hold a contest with a prize for the person who collects the most debris from the local river, for example.

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The reality -

Of course, we cannot beat water pollution on our own. It takes a team effort, but every small thing you can do helps.

Sources: (Express) (Days of the Year)

See also: Light pollution and its harmful effect on wildlife

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