Chemicals in water

A dysfunctional waste-water collection and treatment system ensures that rivers, and lakes such as the Bellandur are completely polluted and virtually lifeless, says water expert S. Vishwanath

This effluent is created by us. Photo: Special Arrangement

A little bit of detergents, a little bit of phenyl from each of the 1.5 million homes in Bangalore adds up to one frothy river, the Vrishabhavathy, and another called the Ponnaiyar. A dysfunctional waste-water collection and treatment system ensures that rivers, and lakes such as the Bellandur are completely polluted and virtually lifeless.

One small way to start, that makes a difference, is by using less of detergents for washing our clothes. Most detergents in India use phosphates which is a water softening agent. Phosphate is also a limiting nutrient for water and more of it leads to algal bloom and the eventual death of water bodies. By replacing detergents with phosphate-free ones, a big difference can be made. There are one or two phosphate-free detergents that are available and those should be selected for cleaning clothes.

Indian alternative

Soapnut or ‘ritha' based washing powders, liquids which are eco-friendly and do much less harm to water are now slowly entering the market. This is an Indian alternative and seems to do an equally good job of cleaning clothes without harming the environment. They can easily be used even in washing machines. Buying and using these products will do much to save our rivers and lakes. Scouting the Internet will lead you to these products. One of them which is soapberry based is even available on the web and, on paying for the product, is delivered free to the house.

Reduce detergents

We also need to lessen the use of detergents in our kitchens too. Again, many products which are soapnut based should be possibilities. Shampoos can be replaced by the old shikakai powder. Even partial substitution will help.

Those who have grey-water reuse systems will also find that using alternatives such as soapberries, soapnuts and shikakai will help improve the treated water quality as well as reduce smell.

Insofar as phenyl is concerned a partial substitution with effective micro-organism-based solutions will be a help. They have no chemicals and also introduce ‘good' bacteria to the house.

Small steps such as can make a difference to our rivers and groundwater without inconveniencing our daily chores. That is being water-wise.

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