| Commercial businesses conduct activities that can generate water pollution. Below is a list of some of the different categories of businesses that can be part of the solution to stormwater pollution. Use of best management practices (BMPs) can help businesses prevent pollution from runoff.
Automobile service shops or salvage yards generate a variety of pollutants including metals and toxic chemicals. Motor oil, antifreeze, oil filters and cleaners can all be potentially harmful to the environment if not recycled. Also, washwater from cleaning vehicles and equipment may contain significant quantities of oil and grease, suspended solids, heavy metals, and organics, as well as pollutants from detergents. These pollutants can be toxic to living organisms, including fish and people who ingest them. Oil and grease contain hydrocarbon compounds, some of which can injure or kill aquatic life even at low concentrations. (Learn more)
Landscaping companies can pollute if they do not use pesticides, fertilizers and motorized equipment properly. Lawn care specialists should test the soil before applying fertilizers to make sure they use the proper type and amount of fertilizer. Pesticides can kill beneficial insects and pollute waterways if they wash off pavement into storm drains. (Learn more)
Restaurants should not dump food waste, grease or other products onto pavements or down into the drain. Any chemicals or food oil spilled should be absorbed by kitty litter and disposed of in the trash. (Learn more)
When working with construction, take proper precautions to prevent sediment from washing into waterways. (Learn More)
Car wash facilities must meet guidelines for preventing chemicals from being discharged into storm drains. The proper drainage is essential to a car wash establishment. (Learn More) |
