In South Florida, rainwater runoff is a significant source of water pollution. It often carries a mix of contaminants from various sources, including industrial waste, pesticides, and fertilizers from agricultural activities, and urban pollutants like oil and grease from roads. This runoff can infiltrate and contaminate groundwater sources, such as the Biscayne Aquifer, especially in areas with minimal vegetation or impermeable surfaces that facilitate rapid runoff. To mitigate this, strategies like constructing green spaces and permeable pavements are implemented to reduce runoff and promote natural filtration.

Contaminants can also enter the water system through leaching. This occurs when chemicals, spilled or improperly disposed of, seep into the soil and eventually reach the groundwater. Additionally, in areas with older infrastructure, pipes made of materials like lead can corrode over time, releasing harmful substances into the water. This underscores the need for regular infrastructure upgrades and stringent waste disposal regulations to prevent soil and water contamination.

Wastewater from industrial and domestic sources introduces a variety of chemicals into the water system. These can include pharmaceutical residues, household cleaning agents, and other synthetic chemicals. While treatment plants are designed to remove many contaminants, some chemicals may not be fully eliminated, especially those that are not specifically targeted by standard treatment processes. Advances in treatment technology and stricter regulation of industrial effluents are crucial to address these concerns.
• Charcoal (Granular Activated Carbon or GAC): These filters use carbon to trap chemicals as water passes through them.
• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: Reverse osmosis is a process that forces water through an extremely thin barrier that separates chemicals from the water.
• Ion Exchange Resins: Resins are tiny beads that act like powerful magnets that attract and hold the contaminated materials from passing through the water system.

In the water treatment process, chemicals like chlorine and chloramine are used for disinfection. However, if not properly monitored and managed, these chemicals can leave residues in the finished water supply, leading to potential health risks. Ensuring accurate dosing and continuous monitoring of water quality throughout the treatment process is vital to prevent such issues.

Natural filtration systems, such as the percolation of water through soil and rock layers, play a critical role in cleansing water before it reaches aquifers. However, these systems can be compromised by over-extraction of water, physical disturbances like construction, and pollution. This degradation reduces their effectiveness in filtering out chemicals, necessitating enhanced protection and restoration of these natural filtration areas.

Accidental spills and leaks from industrial facilities, sewage systems, or transportation incidents involving chemical cargos pose a significant threat to water quality. These incidents can introduce a large concentration of harmful chemicals directly into water sources. Emergency response plans, stringent safety protocols in handling and transporting chemicals, and regular inspections of facilities are essential measures to prevent and quickly address such incidents.