Water pollution is a serious global issue that threatens the health of humans, animals, and our environment. Unfortunately, water pollution has become an increasing problem in many parts of the world due to industrialization and population growth. And thanks to the cyclical way H2O moves between our ecosystems and our supply of drinking water, this epidemic of pollution can have a very direct impact on the safety of water in our homes. Knowing water pollution facts helps us to understand why it’s important to protect our water sources from contamination, both by reducing pollution and by filtering the water that enters our homes.
1. Only 12% of Oil in the Oceans Comes from Oil Spills
Oil spills have long been a major source of water pollution. However, water pollution facts show that only 12% of the oil contaminating the world’s oceans actually comes from oil spills. The rest is caused by land-based sources such as urban runoff and disposal of industrial waste into water sources, making it difficult to curb this type of pollution and ensure water safety.
2. Millions of Marine Animals Die from Water Pollution Each Year
Not only does water pollution affect water quality, but it also has devastating effects on aquatic life. More than a million marine animals die each year due to plastic pollution alone, not even taking other water contaminants into account. Pollutants like nitrogen and phosphorus can even create “dead zones” in water sources, where fish cannot survive.
3. There Are 500 “Dead Zones” in the World’s Oceans
Water pollution has dramatic effects on our ecosystems and biodiversity. One of the most noticeable impacts is the formation of “dead zones,” which are areas where sea life and coral reefs have been utterly destroyed due to water pollution. Shockingly, there are currently more than 500 dead zones across the world’s oceans, with new ones being discovered every year.
4. Less than 1% of the World’s Water Is Drinkable
When it comes to water pollution facts, one of the most alarming is that less than 1% of the world’s water supply is drinkable. This includes both surface and groundwater sources that are safe for human consumption. This water scarcity creates a major issue for many parts of the world, particularly in developing nations where water sources are often contaminated by industrial and agricultural runoff.
5. 1 in 3 People Can’t Access Clean Water
Clean water is essential for human health and well-being. Yet water pollution has made it increasingly difficult to access safe drinking water. According to the World Health Organization, around a third of the world’s population does not have access to clean water, and this number is expected to increase as water pollution worsens. Altogether, that’s more than 2 billion people without a safe, clean water source.
6. Water Pollution Caused 1.4 Million Human Deaths in 2019
When people can’t access clean, safe drinking water, this forces many to rely on contaminated water sources just to survive. This can cause exposure to dangerous heavy metals, chemicals, and potentially lethal bacteria and diseases, such as cholera. As The Washington Post reports, this can lead to a devastating loss of life, such as the more than 1.4 million people who died from water pollution in 2019.
But this isn’t only an issue in areas without sufficient infrastructure. In many cases, people may also continue to use everyday water sources without knowing that they are potentially dangerous.
7. Millions of Americans Live with Contaminated Water
In the United States, water pollution remains a serious issue. Millions of homes in America have water that is contaminated with lead, arsenic, and other hazardous substances — and many residents may not even realize that they’re subject to an unsafe water source. This contaminated water can cause chronic health problems for those who drink it or are exposed to it, such as skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues, and even cancer. And authorities are now raising the alarm around dangerous chemicals called PFAS, which may be widespread in American water systems.
How to Ensure Clean Water in Your Home
Water pollution facts can be overwhelming, but there are ways to ensure that water in your home is safe and clean. Start by checking for water contamination warning signs such as an odd smell or taste, discoloration of water, or particles suspended in the water. That said, not all contaminants can be perceived by our senses. That’s why water testing is so important. Fortunately, there are free resources to get your water checked and find out about the best solutions for your home and budget.
Protect Your H2O with The Science of Water
Access to clean drinking water should be a basic necessity for all families around the world. But with so many threats to water safety, it’s tough to be sure that the water in your home is of peak purity. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of water quality and do what you can to ensure that your family is drinking clean, safe water.
At The Science of Water, we assess and install water filtration systems to meet your unique needs. Using filtration technology backed by NASA and the EPA, our advanced water systems purify your water supply to the highest standard. Whatever you’re looking for in a water filtration system, we can help you enjoy tap water in your home that’s clear of contaminants and safe to drink.
We even offer free water quality testing and consultations. When you need answers about the safety of your local water supply, our technicians can assess your situation for waterborne threats and recommend the perfect filtration system to suit your needs and budget.
Don’t settle for dirty tap water that tastes terrible and risks your health. Get your water tested today to protect your household with pure, clean water that can be relied on. For more information about The Science of Water or to book your free water test, just get in touch with our team today!