What happens to hazardous materials that are poured down the drain?

When hazardous materials are poured down the drain, they can travel through the sewer system and into the environment, where they can pose a danger to human health and the environment. These materials can contaminate the water that we drink, swim in, and fish from, and they can also contribute to air pollution. They also damage wastewater and water treatment infrastructure.

Here are some specific examples of the harmful effects of hazardous materials that are poured down the drain:

Cancer: Many hazardous materials are carcinogens, which means that they can cause cancer. When these materials are poured down the drain, they can enter the drinking water supply and pose a risk to human health. For example, benzene, a chemical that is used in paints, cleaners, and detergents, has been linked to leukemia.

Birth defects: Some hazardous materials can cause birth defects if they are ingested by pregnant women. For example, lead, a metal that is found in batteries, paint, and plumbing fixtures, can cause brain damage, hearing loss, and other developmental problems in children.

Neurological disorders: Some hazardous materials can damage the nervous system. For example, mercury, a metal that is used in thermometers, batteries, and fluorescent light bulbs, can cause neurological damage such as memory loss, tremors, and coordination problems.

Skin and eye irritation: Some hazardous materials can cause skin and eye irritation if they come into contact with them. For example, acids, such as hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid, can cause burns and irritation to the skin and eyes.

Environmental damage: Hazardous materials can also damage the environment when they are discharged into water bodies. They can kill fish and other aquatic life, pollute the air, and damage water treatment plants.

For these reasons, it is important to properly dispose of hazardous materials. Many communities have hazardous waste collection facilities where residents can drop off these materials for proper disposal. Hazardous waste should never be poured down the drain or otherwise disposed of in a way that could introduce it into the environment.