What are potential consequences of untreated sewage on the environment?

The potential consequences of untreated sewage on the environment include significant harm to aquatic life and public health risks. When sewage is discharged into water bodies without proper treatment, it introduces a high load of organic matter, pathogens, nutrients, and harmful chemicals.

Aquatic environments become polluted, leading to oxygen depletion as bacteria break down the excess organic matter. This process can result in hypoxic conditions, which are detrimental to fish and other aquatic organisms, potentially causing die-offs and disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem.

Moreover, untreated sewage can carry disease-causing microorganisms, posing serious health risks to humans who come into contact with contaminated water or use it for recreational purposes. This can lead to waterborne diseases, impacting public health significantly.

Overall, the consequences of untreated sewage emphasize the need for effective sewage treatment processes to protect both the environment and community health.