Water Use
Name the three types of water use (think of our survey)
Indoor, outdoor, virtual
What is the process called when excess nutrients in water bodies lead to dense plant growth and oxygen depletion?
Eutrophication
What happens in the primary treatment step of water treatment?
This stage physically removes solids and sewage through sedimentation and grit removal.
What is virtual water?
Water that is being used indirectly and "hidden" in the product we use every day.
Name one primary source of nutrient pollution that contributes to algal blooms in aquatic ecosystems.
Agricultural Runoff
Name one persistent organic pollutant that has been banned in many countries due to its health effects.
DDT
Name 3 easy ways to reduce water use in your home.
Only flush if you must, Turn the water off when you brush your teeth, only run full loads of dishes in the dishwasher...etc
Why are aquifers vulnerable?
They are susceptible to contamination from surface activities such as agricultural runoff and landfills. Aquifers are also being over-pumped.
What is the primary goal of the Clean Water Act in the United States?
To regulate the discharge of pollutants into U.S waters and ensure water quality standards.
Explain how climate change can contribute to a water shortage.
Climate change can cause more extreme rain and droughts. Heavy rain can cause an increase in flooding and water contamination as a result.
Explain why the Gulf of Mexico has dead zones and why they are seasonal.
Excess nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, from agricultural fertilizers, sewage treatment plants, and other sources, are carried by the Mississippi River into the Gulf. Agriculture is more prominent in warmer seasons and warmer water holds less oxygen.
Describe the concept of integrated pest management (IPM) and its benefits.
IPM combines biological, physical, and chemical tools to manage pests in an environmentally and economically sustainable way, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.