One of the biggest sources of pollution in Lake Ontario is industrial and urban runoff. This includes chemicals, heavy metals, and other harmful substances that are washed into the lake from factories, construction sites, and urban areas. These pollutants can have a devastating impact on the water quality of the lake and the health of its ecosystem.

Industrial runoff is a major concern because it often contains toxic chemicals and pollutants that can contaminate the water and harm aquatic life. Factories and industrial facilities release a variety of pollutants into the environment, including heavy metals like mercury and lead, as well as pesticides and other harmful substances. These pollutants can accumulate in the water and sediment of the lake, posing a serious threat to the health of the ecosystem.

Urban runoff is another significant source of pollution in Lake Ontario. When rain falls on paved surfaces like roads, parking lots, and sidewalks, it can pick up a variety of pollutants, including oil, grease, pesticides, and litter. This contaminated runoff then flows into storm drains and eventually makes its way into the lake. Urban runoff can have a negative impact on water quality, as well as on the health of fish and other aquatic organisms that live in the lake.

In order to address the issue of pollution in Lake Ontario, it is important for industries and urban areas to take steps to reduce their impact on the environment. This can include implementing pollution prevention measures, such as installing treatment systems to remove contaminants from wastewater, and adopting sustainable practices that minimize the release of harmful substances into the environment.

By taking action to reduce pollution from industrial and urban sources, we can help protect the health and sustainability of Lake Ontario for future generations. For more information on the sources of pollution in Lake Ontario and what is being done to address the issue, visit Lake Ontario Waterkeeper.

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