Effects of stormwater pollution
Effects on plants and animals
Stormwater pollution can kill plants and animals that live in the water. For example:
- sediment in the water reduces light penetration and affects photosynthesis, the process that allows plants to use light as their source of energy
- when green waste decays in water it uses up oxygen, taking vital oxygen away from plants, fish and other aquatic animals
- soil makes waterways cloudy and can suffocate fish by clogging their gills
- litter clogs waterways and causes toxicity as it breaks down. It affects the health of birds, fish and other animals and plants that live in the waterways.
Effects on humans
Stormwater eventually feeds into our waterways. Healthy waterways mean a healthy future for the environment and the economy — and for us. For example:
- bacteria and viruses in stormwater can pose a health risk to humans. It can be dangerous to swim immediately after rain
- ugly pollution destroys the visual amenity of our waterways
Page last updated: 24 February 2008