The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), says that Nonpoint Source (NPS) Pollution is not like normal pollution from industrial and sewage treatment plants. It can be produced from many different sources and it is caused by rain or snow moving over and through the ground. The runoff picks up natural as well as human pollutants and takes them to lakes, rivers, wetlands, and coasts. These are delicate natural systems that are altered greatly by humans and chemicals.
There are so many ways that you can personally prevent NPS pollution, here are just a few. Households can make a difference in these problems by using porous pavement for driveways or sidewalks. In addition, it is helpful to the environment to use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly, to reduce pollutants added to runoff. Picking up after pets and storing chemicals properly is an important part in making a change. Likewise, drivers should be responsible and make sure their cars are not leaking. Never wash your car on grass or gravel to prevent runoff. You can keep litter, pet waste, leaves, and debris out of street gutters and storm drains because these go directly to natural areas. You should apply lawn and garden chemicals sparingly and follow the directions too. It is advised to dispose of oil, antifreeze, paints, and chemicals properly. When fluid, oil, paint, or grease are spilt, be sure to clean them up! Also, if we plant proper ground cover then we can control soil erosion. Furthermore, encourage your local government officials to develop construction erosion, as well as sediment control, ordinances to your community. When purchasing cleaners and detergents it is advised to choose ones that are low in phosphates, to reduce the amount of nutrients dumped into natural water ways. Be aware that many chemicals commonly used are toxic, please select less-toxic alternatives. With a great variety of ways to make a modification, there is no reason you cannot be part of the solution.
Nonpoint source pollution is a growing problem that must be resolved promptly. Changing our lifestyles is the first step to seeing a drastic difference. We could fix this problem if we all work together! Always remember the impact that you have on the environment. There are so many small changes that everyone can participate in to make a huge transformation. Some states are making initiatives to produce alterations in pollution, but it will take a while to see drastic difference throughout the nation. Help save our ecosystems.
Helpful Resource: http://Environmental Protection Agency <http://water.epa.gov/polwaste/nps/dosdont.cfm>.