One of the goals of Streamwatch is reducing human impacts on Sydney’s waterways through community education and encouraging cultural change. Today, we’ll explore how small actions can help safeguard our waterways and reduce pollution.
We can all make a difference with simple actions to reduce pollution in our waterways. Every little bit counts.
Stormwater Runoff Pollution
Did you know that stormwater drains carry pollutants like litter, garden debris, and soap directly into our waterways?
What You Can Do:
- Avoid anything going into stormwater drains, including pet waste, swimming pool backwash, or even hosing gum leaves from the driveway.
- Be mindful when gardening. Collect and reuse garden debris instead of washing it down the drain.
Chemical & Oil Pollution
Disposing of chemicals, oils, and grease down drains directly introduces toxins into our waterways. These pollutants can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and contaminate our water sources.
What You Can Do:
- Never pour chemicals, oils, or grease down the drain. Store them properly and dispose of them at designated collection points.
- Fix car oil leaks promptly to prevent pollution.
Litter & Pet Waste Pollution
Litter and pet waste contaminate waterways with bacteria, pathogens, and harmful substances to aquatic life like anti-worm and flea treatments.
What You Can Do:
- Always pick up after your pets.
- Properly dispose of litter and recycle correctly and chat to neighbours about it.
- Participate in local cleanups to remove litter from parks and waterways.
- Encourage your workplace or school to adopt a local waterway for regular cleanups.
Excessive Fertiliser & Pesticide Use
Overuse of fertilizers and pesticides causes nutrient pollution and toxic runoff, which can lead to algae overgrowth and water quality degradation.
What You Can Do:
- Use fertilisers and pesticides sparingly, or opt for natural alternatives.
- Plant native species that require less fertilizer and water.
Community Awareness is Key
Without awareness, effective pollution prevention is difficult. We can all help spread the word.
What You Can Do:
- Advocate for waterway protection. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about how to reduce pollution.
- Support local Landcare groups individually or as part of a team.
- Join Streamwatch programs to learn more about local waterways and help reduce their degradation.
- Spread the word about Streamwatch to others, for example, forward our e-news on to a friend.
Get Involved!
Let’s work together to make a lasting positive impact on Sydney’s waterways. Together, we can protect our waterways for future generations.
For more on urban impacts on water quality, visit these resources:
- Water Quality Australia: waterquality.gov.au
- Bureau of Meteorology: bom.gov.au
