A water purification plant can remove microbes that cause disease. They can treat waste water that leaves homes and factories. This is done in a wastewater plant. The water is filtered, and chlorine is added to kill microbes that still may be in the water. The water is now clean and safe to return to rivers, lakes or streams.
Communities can pass and enforce laws that protect water.
These laws help keep pollution from water that is used for drinking or recreation. Discuss ways that individuals can keep water clean and safe. Discuss individual responsibility for keeping water clean and safe. Phosphates can harm plants and animals that live in water. Check the label on a soap product before buying it to make sure it is low in phosphates.