Causes of Groundwater Pollution

Groundwater typically forms from rainwater that seeps into the earth’s subsurface. Although it can sometimes be difficult to access, groundwater may become polluted by dissolved minerals, engine oils, agricultural chemicals, and waste products. Pollution occurs when these contaminants reach groundwater sources or when water flows through geological layers, dissolving various metals such as iron and manganese, resulting in alarmingly high concentrations of harmful substances. Consequently, the water becomes contaminated and unsuitable for use.

The danger of groundwater pollution lies in its elusive nature, making it harder to detect and manage compared to surface water pollution. This complexity complicates remediation efforts and can allow the effects of pollution to linger for extended periods. Groundwater pollution is closely linked to human activities as increasing population density heightens land use and waste disposal, thereby raising the likelihood of groundwater contamination.

Major Contributors to Groundwater Pollution

Groundwater pollution can result from various sources, with the most significant contributors including:

Oil Tanks: These tanks are used to store petroleum products, oils, or other chemicals. Their risk increases significantly when buried underground, as they can corrode and crack over time, leading to leaks that reach groundwater sources.
Septic Systems: Many homes and buildings not connected to sewage networks rely on alternative systems to collect and dispose of wastewater. Malfunctions or design errors in these systems can lead to the leakage of viruses, bacteria, and household chemicals into groundwater.
Uncontrolled Waste: Numerous hazardous waste collection sites may be unregulated and unknown. If these materials seep into the ground, they can ultimately contaminate groundwater sources.
Landfills: Properly designed landfills aim to prevent leakage that could pollute groundwater. However, cracks in their bottom liners can allow harmful chemical contaminants to seep into groundwater.
Dissolved Chemicals and Salts: Various chemicals are used in agriculture as fertilizers or pesticides, which can seep into the ground during rainfall and reach groundwater. Additionally, salts used to melt snow and ice on roads in winter can eventually contaminate groundwater after melting occurs.
Atmospheric Pollutants: Atmospheric pollutants can also reach groundwater sources, as groundwater is part of the natural water cycle. Thus, pollution in the atmosphere can impact various water sources, including groundwater, over time.

Protecting Groundwater Resources

Addressing and cleaning contaminated groundwater is a complex and costly process; therefore, the impacts of groundwater pollution may persist for many years. It is crucial to implement measures to protect groundwater from pollution. Household practices play a vital role in this effort by ensuring proper waste disposal, minimizing chemical usage, avoiding the discharge of harmful substances into drains, utilizing above-ground storage tanks for fuel, and regularly inspecting sewage systems and nearby wells.

In workplace settings, several actions should be taken to prevent groundwater pollution. These include ensuring the integrity of sewage supplies with routine maintenance, securely closing landfills, carefully storing and handling chemicals, reducing their use when possible, keeping them away from rainwater, and minimizing reliance on pesticides and winter salts that may seep into the ground. Continuous environmental assessments and preliminary emergency response plans are also essential.

Governments bear responsibility for enforcing measures to protect groundwater. This includes establishing regulations and guidelines for land use and development that safeguard underground water reservoirs and wells from pollution risks. Supporting legislation that limits practices contributing to water pollution, promoting community awareness about the importance of groundwater conservation, and considering the potential for groundwater reservoirs in areas designated for construction or development are vital steps for safeguarding these critical resources.