The products from a single home seem insignificant, but when countless thousands of homes use similar products and dispose of them down the drain or in the landfill, the combined effect becomes a major problem. Landfills contaminate groundwater with hundreds of pollutants. Waste water treatment does not remove many of the materials we put down the drain so streams are contaminated. Soil and air are also adversely affected.
Chemicals are a way of life in most American homes.
A typical home can contain 100 to 200 products used for cleaning, painting, lubricating, disinfecting, etc. When used according to label directions, most household products pose little hazard to people or to the environment. However, these products may become hazardous when used, stored, or disposed of carelessly. Improper use may cause toxic health effects. Improper storage may harm people or the environment.