TIPS TO REDUCE WATER POLLUTION: (Article written as part of content writing for Bluebase newsletter)

                             

          Most of us have a notion that an economic development without factories, cities, ships, cars and oils is impossible and so do the water pollution. But pollution brings its own cost in the long run even if it doesn’t cost much upfront. Let us follow these simple methodologies to safeguard one of the vital forces of nature:

·        The first and foremost solution is making people aware of the problem. This involves educating people about the harmful consequences of water pollution.

·        Stricter laws need to be enacted and enforced that operate across national and international boundaries, since most rivers, seas and water bodies span across several continents and countries.

·        The best way to tackle water pollution is by making use of “polluter pays principle”. Imposing heavy fines to clean up the pollutant will make the violators to think twice before acting irresponsibly.

·        Avoid using plastic since it is non-biodegradable.  Thrown away plastic often gets accumulated in rivers, lakes and oceans which in turn endangers aquatic life and affects humans who consume them too. It is advisable to use glass or cloth container whenever possible.

·        Never flush away garbage and medical waste in your toilet. They eventually end up in local streams and rivers where they can harm marine and wild life. It is wise to safely dispose them in dustbins.

·        Volunteer yourself in groups that clean up local beaches, rivers, lakes or oceans. Organise clean up drives to encourage people to come forward to clean up their surroundings.

·        Learn about local and national laws for preventing water pollution and join hands with them to fight against factories and energy plants that pollute local water heavily and speak up about the problem.

·        Prevent soil erosion. When soil gets eroded and mix with rivers, chemicals that exist in soil combine with water and kills plant and animal life. The best way to prevent erosion is to keep soil intact by planting plenty of vegetation.

·        Agriculturists must learn to reduce usage of artificial fertilizers and pesticides and try to use bio-fertilizers as much as possible to improve production. This reduces water pollution as well as enhances soil fertility.

·        We must not get carried away by industrial revolution and the urge for economic development. Corporates must make sure that they act with conscience by properly treating their effluents before releasing them into nearest water bodies.

·        Self-realization plays an important role in water pollution control. Each individual must act responsible enough to reduce water pollution by using environment friendly detergents, properly treating sewage water before discharge and economically consuming water.