Laundry ponds

Direct infiltration of (treated) wastewater through sand beds and infiltration of sewage water from laundry ponds or septic systems are among the major contamination sources of surfactants into subsurface and groundwaters. Most studies published on this issue were released by research groups from the USA where these treatment techniques have found some use (Table 6.7.3). 

Phosphates are a nutrient for many plants and microorganisms. In the past, the phosphates from used laundry detergents often made their way into rivers, lakes, and ponds, where they caused the growth of plants and microorganisms, which grew so rampant as to choke off the natural supply of dissolved oxygen—a process known as eutrophication. 

Place reusable items in a plastic bag or hamper away from your other personal clothes and away from the family laundry. Place disposables in a separate plastic bag or container. The pesticides remaining on your personal protective equipment, work clothing, and other work items could injure persons who touch them. Do not allow children or pets near them. Do not allow contaminated gloves, boots, respirators, or other equipment to be washed in streams, ponds, or other bodies of water. 

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