WATER POLLUTION (PREVENTION) ADVOCACY - STEM11

Summary

Water is an essential resource, yet millions lack access to safe, clean water. Water pollution is a growing global issue, with industrial waste, pathogens, and poor wastewater treatment contributing to illness and environmental harm. Unsafe water causes more deaths than all forms of violence combined, especially among children under five. The video emphasizes that small, mindful actions, such as conserving water, properly disposing of waste, and using eco-friendly products, can help reduce pollution. By taking responsibility and starting locally, individuals can contribute to preserving this vital resource for future generations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Water is a crucial necessity in our lives, yet many people lack access to safe water.
• 😀 Nearly two million tons of industrial and agricultural waste are discharged into the world’s water daily.
• 😀 Less than 1% of Earth’s freshwater is accessible to humans, and pollution is threatening this limited supply.
• 😀 More than 80% of the world’s wastewater flows back into the environment without being treated or used.
• 😀 The major sources of water pollution are factories, farms, and cities, contributing millions of tons of waste to the environment.
• 😀 Waterborne diseases from human and animal wastes are major causes of illness from contaminated drinking water.
• 😀 Unsafe water sickens approximately 1 billion people annually, and water pollution is a leading cause of child mortality under five years old.
• 😀 Water pollution kills more people annually than all forms of violence combined.
• 😀 Wastewater treatment can help remove pollutants from water, but we must also take actions to prevent water pollution.
• 😀 Simple actions like conserving water, using eco-friendly products, and cleaning up litter can significantly reduce water pollution.
• 😀 Water pollution is an ongoing global problem, but we can all contribute by making small changes in our daily habits.

Q & A

Why is water considered a vital necessity for life?

Water is essential for life because it is used every day for various activities such as drinking, cooking, and sanitation. It supports all biological processes and is necessary for the survival of all living organisms.

What is the current global situation regarding access to safe water?

Currently, less than one percent of the Earth's freshwater is accessible for human use, and many people around the world lack access to safe drinking water, leading to health risks and waterborne diseases.

What are the major contributors to water pollution?

Water pollution is mainly caused by industrial waste, agricultural runoff, sewage, and oil spills. These contaminants, including chemicals and pathogens, enter water sources, posing significant health risks.

What is the connection between water pollution and public health?

Water pollution has severe effects on public health, causing illness and death from diseases caused by contaminated water. In fact, waterborne diseases are the leading cause of death for children under five years old.

How much waste is discharged into the world's water daily?

Every day, around two million tons of industrial, agricultural, and other waste are discharged into the world’s water, which is equivalent to the weight of the entire human population.

What role do waterborne pathogens play in water pollution?

Waterborne pathogens, such as disease-causing bacteria and viruses from human and animal waste, are major contributors to water pollution, leading to illnesses and deaths when humans consume contaminated water.

How do developed countries compare in terms of wastewater treatment?

In developed countries, over 95% of wastewater flows back into the environment untreated, which poses environmental and public health risks, despite the advanced infrastructure available.

What are some actions individuals can take to reduce water pollution?

Individuals can reduce water pollution by conserving water, using environmentally friendly household products, not disposing of harmful chemicals or litter down drains, and cleaning up local water sources like rivers and beaches.

What is the significance of starting small in addressing water pollution?

Starting small, such as making conscious decisions in daily life, can lead to significant environmental change. Even small efforts like turning off the tap while not in use or picking up litter contribute to reducing water pollution.

How does water pollution impact the global environment?

Water pollution disrupts ecosystems, harms wildlife, and degrades the quality of water, making it unsafe for human consumption. The accumulation of contaminants in water bodies contributes to broader environmental issues such as climate change and loss of biodiversity.