4.3.5 Urban surface water run-off
Rainwater that runs off road surfaces, roofs, parking areas, etc. carries with it a variety of components (Table 4.1). The bulk of the contaminants can be traced to motor vehicles. Surface water run-off can cause damage to streams, rivers and lakes by degrading the water quality and harming aquatic life. The pollutants present can hinder the growth and reproduction of fish and other creatures, and affect photosynthetic activity. Plant nutrients may contribute to eutrophication.
Pollutant | Likely sources |
Sediment | Construction, road surfaces, emissions from vehicles, industrial sources, vehicle wear |
Copper | Vehicle brake pads, industrial activities, plumbing and guttering |
Lead | Industrial activities and residues from historical activities (plumbing, paint, leaded petrol, sprays), tyre-balancing weights, vehicle brake pads |
Zinc | Vehicle tyres, galvanised building materials, paint, industrial activities |
Hydrocarbons | Vehicle emissions, lubricating oils |
Rubber | Tyre wear |
Detergents | Wash-down areas, domestic discharges (e.g. from car washing), industrial discharges |
Litter | Discarded material (e.g. plastic bags, cups, cigarette ends), windblown materials, illegal dumping |
4.3.4 Domestic and industrial solid waste sites