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Topsoil runoff from farm, central Iowa (2011). Water pollution in the United States is a growing problem that became critical in the 19th century with the development of mechanized agriculture, mining, and manufacturing industries—although laws and regulations introduced in the late 20th century have improved water quality in many water bodies. [1]
A large percentage of individuals living throughout America receive drinking water from such sources in which don't meet regulations for safe water to use. [10] Pollution from nitrogen and phosphorus in freshwater not only harms ecosystems but also costs Americans money, according to Kansas State University researchers. These pollutants, often ...
Anthropogenic air pollution has affected the United States since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. [75] According to a 2024 report: "39% of people living in America—131.2 million people—still live in places with failing grades for unhealthy levels of ozone or particle pollution."
The wilderness area sits in two watersheds: the Great Lakes, which flows to the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Lawrence Seaway; and the Rainy River, which makes its way to the Atlantic Ocean via the ...
The Clean Water Act, enacted in 1948 under a different name and restructured in 1972, regulates water pollution in the United States. Its purpose, in part, is to restore and maintain the nation ...
Water pollution may affect either surface water or groundwater. This form of pollution can lead to many problems. One is the degradation of aquatic ecosystems. Another is spreading water-borne diseases when people use polluted water for drinking or irrigation. [3]
NRDC stated that the chemical has now been detected in 26 states, and that 26 million people may be affected by perchlorate in their drinking water. [99] Pursuant to a court order, EPA plans to issue proposed and final rules for perchlorate, by 2025 and 2027, respectively.
Congress enacted the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, better known as the Clean Water Act (CWA). [21] The CWA established a national framework for addressing water quality, including mandatory pollution control standards, to be implemented by the agency in partnership with the states. [22]