Industrial operation activities relative to processed water is a significant source of water pollution, the process produces pollutants that are extremely harmful to environment and the people living in the community. Many industrial facilities use freshwater to carry away waste from the plant and into rivers, lakes, and oceans. This process serve as a conduit for pollutants. Pollutants from industrial sources include:
Asbestos: Is a pollutant that contained a serious health hazard and carcinogenic. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled and cause illnesses such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer, intestinal cancer, and liver cancer.
Lead: Is a metallic element and can cause health and environmental problems. It is a non-biodegradable substance very hard to clean up once its entered the environment. Lead is harmful to the health of many animals, including humans, as it can inhibit the action of bodily enzymes.
Mercury: Is a metallic element that has potential to cause health and environmental problems. It is a non-biodegradable substance so is hard to clean up once the environment is contaminated. Mercury is also harmful to animal health as it can cause illness through mercury poisoning.
Nitrates: The high use of fertilizers means nitrates would be washed of the soil and into rivers and lakes. This process will cause eutrophication, which can be very problematic to marine environments.
Phosphates: The increased use of fertilizers means that phosphates are more often being washed from the soil and into rivers and lakes. This can cause eutrophication, which can be very problematic to marine environments.
Sulphur: Is a non-metallic substance that is harmful to marine life.
Oils: Oil does not dissolve in water, instead it forms a thick layer on the water surface. This process has the potential to stop marine plants from receiving enough light for photosynthesis. It is also harmful for fish and marine birds.
Petrochemicals-petroleum distillates: Are chemicals made from petroleum (crude oil) and natural gas, if spilled into water can be toxic for marine life.
D-E professionals have assisted our clients and will assist your business in developing hazardous waste minimization plans to reduce reporting requirements and yield substantial cost savings. We work with local disposal companies to find the best solution for your waste, and develop a system to ensure all documentation is maintained correctly, example a waste disposal tracking matrix.
Contact us for more information.