How to Prevent the Spreading of Toxic Waste
The reasons for preventing pollution through the spread of toxic waste range from environmental impacts to human health concerns to loss of aesthetic value. Toxic waste often introduces non-natural compounds into the environment for which it has no mechanism for adaptation. Even when natural chemicals such as cyanide or aluminum are introduced, they can be in more lethal forms. Some chemicals can accumulate in the environment or plant and animal tissues, compounding their effects. The best solution is prevention, with a multifaceted approach.
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Instructions
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Identify the source. A complicated issue facing pollution clean-up efforts is nonpoint source pollution (NSP). Unlike other readily identified sources, NSP occurs when precipitation washes over contaminated sites, bringing toxic waste into our waterways. Sources of toxic waste include agricultural runoff, urban waste from runoff from impervious surfaces like roads, and runoff from sewage facilities and treatment centers. To prevent NSP, overall regulation of possible toxins is required.
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Modernize treatment centers. A U.S. Geological Survey study revealed that trace levels of pharmaceuticals began showing up in U.S. drinking water. The cause was linked to the taking of prescription drugs. Not all drugs are fully absorbed by the human body. Residual amounts end up in water sources. Dated water treatment facilities were not equipped to filter this matter. Modernization of current facilities can help filter out these drugs and prevent their spread through drinking water systems.
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Encourage and develop sustainable agricultural practices. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency identified agricultural runoff as the main contributor to water pollution. Millions of tons of pesticides and fertilizers are applied to agricultural lands each year. Sustainable agricultural practices seek ways to minimize their use and their impact on the environment. Simple practices such as crop rotation or systematic application of pesticides can lessen the amount of toxins in the environment.
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Decrease our dependence on fossil fuels. Dependence on fossil fuels encourages the spread of toxic waste on two fronts. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are converted by the energy of the sun plus moisture in the area. The result is acid rain. Acid rain acidifies lakes and streams, causing plant die-off and fish kill. Fossil fuels also harm the environment in a more direct way. Coal mining destroys natural resources, often releasing toxic waste directly into the environment. Cleaner, renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind power can mitigate the effects of fossil fuels.
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Tips & Warnings
The complexity of the issues of toxic waste require different prevention techniques depending on the source and the degree of toxicity. Identifying the source is an essential step in this process. Knowing the nature of the threat provides the means of effecting a solution. Prevention is possible at the individual level. Taking steps to reduce your own use of toxic products contributes. We all have a stake in the health of the planet.
Toxic waste clean up can be costly and take years to accomplish.
