Thermal Pollution

Thermal Pollution
What is thermal pollution?
One of the most serious ways that humans change the temperature of waters is through thermal pollution. The raising of the air or water temperature by artificial means is called thermal pollution. Thermally polluted water often undergoes biological changes that make it less valuable for drinking, recreational, habitat and industrial uses.

What causes Thermal pollution?
• Industries, such as nuclear power plants, may cause thermal pollution by discharging water used to cool machinery. The water is taken from the water to cool down the machines and when it is too warm to cool them down anymore, it is returned to the water. This raises the temperature of the water causing thermal pollution.
• Stormwater running off warmed surfaces, such as streets, sidewalks and parking lots causes thermal pollution. When the warmed water goes down the stormwater drain, it is released directly into the stream or dam causing thermal pollution....