Two ways water quality can be negatively impacted include:
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Pollution from Agricultural Runoff: The use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture can lead to runoff during rainfall, carrying these chemicals into nearby water bodies. This can result in nutrient pollution, leading to algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels in the water, harm aquatic life, and make the water unsafe for drinking and recreation.
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Industrial Discharges: Factories and industrial facilities may release contaminants directly into water bodies or through wastewater. This can include heavy metals, chemicals, and other hazardous substances that not only degrade water quality but can also pose serious health risks to humans and wildlife.
These factors can significantly alter the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water, rendering it unsafe for use and disrupting ecosystems.