The categories of water pollution that domestic waste fits into are biodegradable waste,
hazardous and toxic chemical pollutants and PPCPs. Generally, wastewater treatment facilities
are equipped to effectively remove harmful substances generated from biodegradable waste.
The hazardous and toxic chemicals that individuals release into the environment are more
dangerous (and more preventable). Chemicals, such as cleaners, dyes, paints, pesticides and
solvents, which are poured down drains, are a substantial and dangerous form of pollution.
Wastewater treatment facilities are generally unequipped to remove PPCPs from wastewater;
water pollution from PPCPs is a growing concern. For more information about dangerous
pollutants that are found in domestic products, see the Emerging Contaminants fact sheet.