In the stream examined, there were a few different factors of pollution found.
- Littering: is the action of carelessly disposing trash and waste. It may clog up streams, cutting off the healthy flow of streams. The litter may also contain toxins that poison marine life. Organisms may get trapped in object, making it harder for them to swim, escape and survive.
- Salt: salt is used to melt snow and ice. This past winter, Brampton received a lot of snow, thus requiring tons of road salt to eliminate any snow or ice on the streets and sidewalks. When it rains, the salt gets washed down to the streams and contaminates the water, killing any organisms that are sensitive to salt.
- Recreation: an example of recreation is walking a dog. The dog's feces contribute to the contamination of the stream.
- Cars: the gasoline and oil that leaks from the car gets washed down with the rain to pollute the stream with its toxins.
Actions that we can take:
It is often easier, and less expensive to prevent a problem from developing at the first place, rather than trying to fix it after;
- Clean Up local stream area with friends/ class: Take actions with your school, by asking your teachers to help you out. Make clubs, or go as a class to a near by stream and clean up the litter.
- Teach community members: Spreading the word about biodiversity and the human impacts of it may encourage people to change their lifestyle in a positive way. Which will prevent them from harming the biodiversity streams?
- Combine trips by car pooling: When going somewhere, such as school try car pooling. Fewer cars means, less greenhouse gas emission, and improved air quality. Walk, ride a bike or carpool.