This month, the Earth Care Committee encourages you to think about your impact on water quality. Commonly used household products that go down the drain can be hazardous to aquatic environments and our own health. Cleaning products, shampoo, sidewalk salts, and pesticides can all harm the ecosystem where we live, as well as the oceans far downstream.
One example is chlorine bleach, which forms toxic compounds when it interacts with other substances in water, harming aquatic life. Chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates in shampoos or laundry detergents pollute water, and anti-bacterial soaps wipe out many helpful microbes and contribute to antibiotic resistance in harmful ones.
The good news is that you can find alternatives that are safer. The non-profit Environmental Working Group has developed a grading system to show whether a product contains compounds of concern. Products can attain EWG’s Verified mark if they meet certain safety standards. You can learn about the program here.
More simply, consider using safe and effective products such as vinegar and baking soda for many of your cleaning needs. Baking soda works as a laundry booster, too! Use products made from plant products as a safer alternative to traditional detergents.
Finally, remember that what you use outdoors ends up in our waterways, too. One cup of salt should be enough for a standard front walk. Or, consider substituting sand or coffee grounds!
And when gardening this spring, know that pesticides are often very harmful to fish and other aquatic life.
Thank you for helping to keep our waters clean!