Water Pollution Teaching Resources

Overview of Water Pollution

Water is something that is often taken for granted. We have easy access to clean water in our houses. We only realize how important water is when there is a drought or when there is no clean water. Water pollution plays a big role in our everyday lives without us realizing it. We might have enough clean water now, but, in the future, we could struggle to find safe and clean water to sustain ourselves.

Water pollution can happen in many different ways. For example, looking at the Flint Michigan Water Crisis, the pollution and shortage was brought about because of money. The city wanted to find a cheaper source of water and switched their provider to the Flint River. The corrosion of pipes lead to lead seepage in the river, which was their drinking water. The results of the pollution in the river lead to health problems. The residents experienced high blood levels of lead, which is especially harmful to women and children, that can cause learning disabilities.

The effects of water pollution are great such as health issues and environmental degradation. Other examples of what can contribute to water pollution are agricultural pollution, oil pollution, as well as groundwater and surface water. Imagine what the world would look like if water pollution was allowed to increase without attempts to control it.