Ground Water Pollution Research Paper

Michael Wales

Professor Latimer

ENVI 110

May 29, 2016

Ground Water Pollution The world today has many forms of contaminations, meaning forms of pollution. What is Pollution? Pollution is presence of matter or energy whose nature, location, or quantity directly or indirectly alters characteristics or processes of any part of the environment, and causes or has the potential to cause damage to the condition, safety , health, or humans, welfare of animals , plants, or property. The different types of pollution are: water pollution, air pollution, soil pollution, thermal pollution, radioactive pollution, noise pollution, and light pollution. Water pollution is one of the main pollutions in the world. There are even many forms of types of water

The publics’ growing awareness and worry for controlling water pollution led to sweeping amendments in 1972. In 1972 it was amended and the law then became better known as the Clean Water Act. The Clean Water Act establishes the basic framework for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and putting guidelines on the quality standards for surface waters. The 1972 amendments state that it established the basic structure for regulating pollutant excess waste into the waters of the United States. It gave EPA the authority to apply pollution control programs such as setting wastewater qualifications for industry. It also maintains existing regulations to set water quality guidlines for all forms of contaminants in surface waters. It made it illegal for any person to put any pollutant from a point source into navigable waters, unless under provisions a permit was obtained. It Funds the construction of sewage treatment plants under the construction grants program. Lastly, it recognized the need for planning to fix the critical problems posed by nonpoint source

Groundwater contamination can last for years and be difficult and expensive to clean up. Pollution prevention is the key. Ways one can help out in the home is properly dispose of all waste. Do not just dump chemicals down drains or on the ground. Safely store all chemicals and fuels in a safe area. Try to minimize the use of chemicals. Always follow the directions accordingly and use the proper amount. If you have on-site septic systems try to have them pumped and inspected every five years. If one has on-site wells examine them and surrounding land areas and test wells as often as pollution risk demands. Now if one is at work or in the business world still make sure one is properly disposing of all waste. Try to ensure proper wastewater discharge connections. If at all possible try to eliminate floor drains. Properly use and maintain on-site septic systems also make sure it routine inspections. Also plug and cover waste dumpsters. For businesses that have hazardous waste material, safely store, handle, and use chemicals and fuels. Try to reduce the use of chemicals by trying to substitute the chemicals. It also helps to conduct environmental audits. Make sure one regularly inspects high risk areas. Businesses need to also develop a pollution prevention