Groundwater is water that is stored beneath the ground in spaces between rocks and soil. It is an important source of drinking water and is also used for farming and because it moves slowly, pollution can stay underground for many years.
Storage Tanks
Storage tanks hold fuel, oil and chemicals. As they get older, they can crack or rust. If they leak, dangerous liquids can soak into the ground and pollute the groundwater.
Septic Tanks
Septic tanks collect wastewater from homes that are not connected to sewers. If they are damaged or not maintained properly, bacteria, viruses and chemicals can leak into the soil and contaminate groundwater.
Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste from factories or old industrial sites can contain harmful chemicals. If it is not stored safely, these chemicals can slowly reach the groundwater. Groundwater remediation, like the examples seen here, //soilfix.co.uk/services/groundwater-remediation, is then needed to remove the pollution.
Landfills
Older landfills or damaged landfill liners can allow polluted liquid to escape. This liquid can carry harmful substances through the soil and into underground water supplies.
Chemicals and Road Salt
Fertilisers, pesticides and road salt can be washed into the ground by rain. Over time, these chemicals can build up in groundwater and affect both the drinking water and wildlife. Groundwater should always be protected from pollution.
Air Pollution
Air pollution can also affect groundwater. Chemicals released into the air can fall with rain, soak into the ground and eventually reach underground water. This is another reason why protecting the environment is important for keeping groundwater clean.
