Clean, shiny cars are a source of pride for many of us. However, have you ever stopped to consider the environmental impact of your car washing routine? Traditional car washes and washing vehicles at home might seem harmless, but they contribute significantly to water pollution. In this blog, we will explore how runoff water from both traditional car washes and car washes at home can harm the environment.
Traditional car washes often use a cocktail of harsh chemicals and detergents to remove dirt, grease, and grime from vehicles. These chemicals can contain harmful substances like phosphates, ammonia, and surfactants. When these substances are rinsed off cars, they can end up in storm drains and eventually make their way into rivers, lakes, and oceans if not treated and recycled.
Many people prefer to wash their cars or get their car washed at home, thinking they are saving money and resources. However, they often use household soaps and detergents that are not designed for environmental compatibility. These cleaning agents can contain harmful phosphates, surfactants, and other chemicals. When these chemicals mix with the wash water, they become water pollutants. At-home car washes often lack proper drainage systems to contain and treat the runoff water. As a result, the contaminated water flows into storm drains, which lead directly to natural water bodies.
Runoff water contaminated with chemicals, oils, grease, and sediments can flow directly into storm drains or local water bodies, carrying pollutants that can harm aquatic ecosystems, disrupting the balance of life in rivers, streams and oceans. . In some cases, runoff water can find its way into groundwater sources, contaminating drinking water supplies.
While keeping your car clean is important, it’s crucial to be mindful of how you do it. To minimize environmental impact, It’s time to trade in traditional car washes and at-home washes for a more sustainable and eco-friendly waterless option.