In April this year, the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province in South Africa was devastated by floods that claimed the lives of over 400 people. Outside of the massive loss of life, the KZN floods caused damage that the Thekwini municipality is still trying to resolve today, including rebuilding infrastructure that was washed away and, more importantly, fixing the heavily affected water and drainage systems. The destruction of the water systems has resulted in sewage polluting the Umbilo river system and the beaches in Durban, KZN’s capital city and main tourist attraction.

Causes of Water Pollution

As mentioned above, faulty water and sewage drainage systems can result in water pollution because raw sewage is left to enter water systems unchecked. Industries and companies dumping their toxic waste into bodies of water also contribute to water pollution, especially when the government does not monitor and regulate this activity. Other bad environmental practices such as deforestation, pesticides used in farming and plastic waste can result in water pollution; the common thread is that human activity is the leading cause of water pollution. 

Conclusion: 

Water is life. The effects of water pollution are apparent; without access to clean, healthy water, all life is threatened. Clean water is becoming scarce; however, it is a fundamental human right and is essential to the plants and marine life that depend on it. Human activity is the leading cause of water pollution so humans can be the ultimate solution to this life-threatening issue. As an individual, you can play your part by supporting organisations focused on resolving environmental problems, participating in river and beach clean-ups, and holding the government accountable for their role in fighting climate change.