Water is often described as the elixir of life, essential for our survival and well-being.
According to the United States Geological Survey, approximately 115 million individuals, which is over a third of the country’s population, depend on groundwater as their source of drinking water.
However, what happens when this life-sustaining resource becomes a hidden threat lurking beneath the surface? Groundwater contamination, a perilous and often unseen issue, has been quietly affecting communities worldwide, casting a long shadow over human health.
We must ask ourselves: What are the real, tangible consequences of groundwater contamination on the health of individuals and communities? How does it seep into our lives, and what can we do to address this pervasive challenge?
In this article, we will reveal the devastating impact of groundwater contamination, explore the hidden dangers, and seek easy remediation tips that could change the way we view and protect our most precious resource: clean, safe water.
Chemicals That Cause Groundwater Contamination and Their Side Effects on Human Health
Table of Contents
Growing apprehension surrounds groundwater contamination in the United States, mainly because roughly 50 percent of their drinking water is sourced from wells. This concern is amplified by the adverse impacts on human health caused by both pathogenic microorganisms present in groundwater and the harmful chemicals it may contain.
Let’s explore each category of chemicals that can contaminate groundwater in detail:
Heavy Metals
Metals such as lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium are among the most concerning contaminants. These heavy metals can infiltrate groundwater from various sources, including industrial processes, mining activities, and even natural deposits.
Mercury can have adverse effects on the nervous system and kidneys, while cadmium can pose a threat to the kidneys, bones, liver, and blood when exposure levels exceed established safety limits.
Among heavy metals, arsenic is widely recognized as a common cause of poisoning in adults. It also leads to damage to the skin, liver, and eyes, and it may also be linked to the development of cancer. It’s well-established that high arsenic consumption is a known contributor to bladder cancer, but the risk associated with lower exposure levels remains uncertain.
Organic Compounds
Organic compounds are carbon-based chemicals that can contaminate groundwater in different forms:
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs, including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX), are often associated with gasoline and petroleum product spills. They can infiltrate groundwater and, due to their volatility, may release harmful vapors into the air, posing both groundwater and air quality concerns.
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): PAHs are typically found in coal tar and creosote and can contaminate groundwater near sites where these substances are used or disposed of.
- Chlorinated Solvents: Chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), and carbon tetrachloride are common groundwater contaminants resulting from industrial activities.
Organic compounds can pose significant health risks, with certain VOCs like benzene, PCE, and TCE carrying the potential to elevate the risk of cancer when ingested or inhaled in substantial quantities over an extended period.
Moreover, when individuals are exposed to extremely high levels of VOCs, it can result in damage to the nervous and immune systems and harm to the kidneys and liver. Children, owing to their smaller stature and the ongoing development of their brains and bodies, are particularly vulnerable to these adverse health effects.
In fact, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 serves as additional evidence supporting the health risks associated with organic compounds on the human body. Camp Lejeune, a military base located in North Carolina, faced water contamination issues spanning from 1953 to 1987, which exposed millions of individuals to these harmful chemicals.
As reported by TorHoerman Law, a total of sixteen health conditions and symptoms have been associated with exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, underscoring the severity of the side effects caused by organic compounds.
Nitrates and Nitrites
High concentrations of nitrates and nitrites in groundwater can lead to health concerns.
In Iowa and Nebraska, researchers conducted population-based case-control studies to investigate the relationship between nitrate levels in community-supplied drinking water and the incidence of various types of cancer, including stomach, esophagus, bladder, brain, colon, rectum, pancreas, and kidney cancers.
They found that individuals who consumed water with higher nitrate levels and had a diet rich in meat faced an elevated risk of developing colon, kidney, and stomach cancer. This increased risk was associated with the combined dietary pattern that led to greater formation of N-nitroso compounds (NOC).
Microorganisms
Pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa can infiltrate groundwater, often due to faulty septic systems or inadequately treated wastewater.
Consuming water contaminated with these microorganisms can lead to waterborne diseases and pose serious public health risks. Many of the pathogens also cause gastrointestinal diseases.
Leachate from Landfills
Landfills generate leachate containing a mixture of contaminants, both organic and inorganic. These substances may infiltrate groundwater, affecting water quality and the surrounding environment.
The health consequences of consuming leachate-contaminated water are diverse, spanning from sweating and stomach disorders to blood disorders, congenital disabilities, and cancer. The specific effects depend on the various hazardous components present in these leachates.
5 Home Remedies To Deal with Groundwater Contamination
Here are five home remedies to deal with groundwater contamination.
Boiling Water
Boiling water is an effective method to make groundwater safe for consumption by eliminating specific contaminants. It is beneficial for addressing microbial contamination. To utilize this method, bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute.
This method eliminates bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that could be found in the water. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that boiling may not eliminate chemical pollutants, so it doesn’t provide a complete solution for all forms of contamination.
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters are a practical and cost-effective means of improving water quality at home. These filters, commonly found in countertop or under-sink water filtration systems, are designed to reduce various organic contaminants, chlorine, and unpleasant odors.
The activated carbon adsorbs these substances, effectively removing them from the water. To maintain the effectiveness of these filters, it’s crucial to replace the filter cartridges regularly, as they tend to lose their filtering capacity over time.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration systems are highly efficient at removing a broad spectrum of contaminants from groundwater. These systems force water through a semipermeable membrane, which captures and filters out heavy metals, pesticides, and many chemical compounds.
Reverse osmosis systems provide a reliable solution for households looking to ensure their drinking water is free from a wide range of pollutants.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting represents an environmentally conscious method for tackling issues related to groundwater pollution. This method encompasses the gathering and retention of rainwater from your rooftop in containers or reservoirs.
To ensure the collected rainwater remains safe for various non-potable purposes like plant irrigation, cleaning, or toilet flushing, it’s essential to maintain the cleanliness of the collection surfaces and regularly maintain the storage system. While rainwater can serve many household needs, it is not typically recommended for drinking unless appropriately treated.
Examination of Wells and Surrounding Land
Regularly inspect on-site wells and the surrounding land areas to identify potential sources of pollution. Check for signs of leaks, spills, or other contaminants. Test the well water as frequently as the pollution risk demands, which may vary depending on local regulations, nearby activities, and historical land use.
Ensuring the safety and quality of your well water is crucial for your family’s health and the environment.
Plant Native Grasses and Plants
These native species are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions, requiring minimal inputs of fertilizer, pesticides, and herbicides. Their deep root systems can help stabilize the soil, prevent erosion, and improve water infiltration, reducing the risk of groundwater contamination.
By choosing indigenous vegetation, you can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to managing groundwater quality right in your own backyard.
Wrapping Up
Protecting your health and the environment from groundwater contamination is both a duty and a chance to create a positive influence. By adhering to the five essential recommendations for managing home groundwater pollution, you can help foster a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
From proper waste disposal to the thoughtful selection of native plants, these actions help protect your health, preserve local ecosystems, and ensure the availability of clean and safe groundwater for future generations. It’s a collective effort that starts at home but has far-reaching implications for the well-being of our communities and the planet.
