July 7, 2008--Eco-friendly car wash (Environmental News Network)
Most people are thinking about saving money or getting a fantastic tan as they proudly soap up automobiles on their driveways, hose in hand. But the truth is that home car washing is one of the more environmentally unfriendly chores we perform. When we home wash, the run-off water goes untreated into storm drains, and eventually ends up in rivers, streams and wetlands. The dirty water may contain soap, detergent, residue from exhaust frames, gasoline or motor oil. Car washing soap often contains phosphates, which spur the growth of algae. Excess algae, in addition to smelling bad and impacting water quality, uses oxygen needed by fish and other animals in the water.
To view the full article, visit the Environmental News Network. For a copy of the original article contact the WIP at (970) 247-1302 or stop by the office at 841 East Second Avenue in Durango.