Water pollution is the corruption of water bodies, such as lakes, beaches, rivers, streams, oceans, aquifers and groundwater. It is a form of environmental degradation which develops when pollutants are being released into water bodies. Water pollution is a major issue in our world, caused by human beings; it threatens the health and well being of humans, plants, and animals.
At first, we humans were not aware that our habit of throwing rubbish would lead to the death of sea animals. How’ you ask? When we throw our rubbish on the ground (our glad wrap, chips packets...etc.), our rubbish ends up being swept up into our water drains, which leads to the ocean. The rubbish goes down the drain, flows into the ocean and sea animals swim by mistaking the rubbish we throw away, for food. When the animals swallow the trash, it gets stuck in their airways, preventing them from breathing properly. It also stays in the sea animals stomachs preventing them from digesting food, worst case scenario, they starve to death. Therefore, water pollution destroys the habitats of fish species and other animals.
It is not only our litter that is harming sea life, but other forms of toxic waste that is being released into the water.
The death of sea animals can also be caused by cow feces, also known as cow poop, which washes into rivers. Farmers put pesticides on their crops, which the rain washes into rivers. We have also been putting chemicals down our drains. Chemicals such as paint, cleaning products, oil and solvents. Putting chemicals in our drains has the same result as when we litter, the fish end up dying. If our sea animals die, our food chain collapses, this could even lead to the end of the world, is this what you all want?.
If water pollution continues at the same rate, fishing industries will be put out of business and be severely damaged. Eventually fish will not be bought or be sold at seafood shops, which is bad news for seafood/fish lovers and for fishing industries. People could lose their jobs, which could also lead to the loss of money for the employees and the fishing companies. Imagine the lives we are ruining by killing the innocent yet delicious fish, but we can make a difference to prevent this from happening.
The contamination of water also affects humans, and our world. Serious diseases can spread to humans and animals as a result of sea or river pollution. Some areas of the world survive on one source of water, and if that water gets polluted, they have no choice but to use that water. This can lead to dehydration, cancer, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach aches, etc. In some other nations, fishing is a key source of revenue for their economy.
New Zealand is one of the many countries with a large amount of polluted water bodies. Due to this issue in our country, we as New Zealanders are collaborating to make a difference in the world, as well as Nz. There are many water supported charities that raise money to give water and encourage others to conserve, and to stop water pollution. One of the most popular water charities are the Water for all campaign. Their main focus is to Work together to end poverty and injustice, I couldn’t of stated it better. But charities aren’t the only way that we show that we care for our water. Schools/colleges/universities in Nz create and share data they have learnt on varieties of environmental pollution. They share information using their blogs, websites, posters and sometimes they take it to the press, all this to spread news world wide. Adults and children are helping to revive Papatuanuku (mother earth). But to be able to do this, we have to start small and start off making Aotearoa a livable and safe environment.
Water pollution affects almost all living aspects on earth. This could all be prevented by doing right by our environment; pick up rubbish, do not put chemicals down drains, plant trees and be water efficient. Many lives are put at risk because of water pollution. Lets work together to reduce water pollution on earth so that animals, humans, plants and trees may live in peace and harmony. Think about your selfless actions, and the lives you are putting at risk, whether you are not aware of it, the fault lies upon you!.
