USE A CLEAN
DETERGENT
Over half the
phosphates in our lakes and streams come from detergents.
BACKGROUND.
Phosphates,
chemical compounds containing phosphorus, are found in most detergents.
Manufacturers use them because they soften water and prevent dirt particles
from being re-deposited on clothes.
Unfortunately,
there are severe ecological side‑effects: As phosphates empty into
streams and lakes, they cause "algae bloom”, they fertilize algae to the
point where it grows out of control. When the algae dies (in its natural
cycle), the bacteria that cause it to decay‑a process requiring huge
amounts of oxygen‑use up the oxygen needed by other plants and marine
life to survive. The result: Lakes and streams can die.
DETERGENT
DATA
You may be
using a high‑phosphate detergent without realizing it. Look on the side
of your detergent box. It will list the amount of phosphorus "in the form
of phosphates." But that's not the phosphate content; to get the actual
amount, multiply the percentage of phosphorus by 3. For example: 8% phosphorus
= 24% phosphates.
Phosphates
aren’t necessary. Many powdered detergents are made with different formulas‑less
than 0.5% phosphates for areas where phosphate use is regulated, and higher
percentages where it isn't.
SIMPLE THINGS
TO DO
Use a little less detergent. According to
Consumer Reports magazine, manufacturers recommend more detergent than
necessary.
Use a low‑phosphate,
or phosphate‑free detergent.. Liquid detergents are generally phosphate‑free.
Use a
substitute. If your water is soft, soap powder will work as well as a
detergent. If your water is hard, you can try a combination of soap and washing
soda. But don't try it until you get more details.