What is the potential environmental impact of a poorly maintained septic system?

A poorly maintained septic system can have serious consequences for the environment, primarily through the contamination of groundwater and local ecosystems. When septic systems are not maintained properly, they can fail to effectively treat wastewater. This failure can lead to the leakage of pathogens, excessive nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, and harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil and groundwater.

Groundwater is a crucial source of drinking water, and any contamination can pose significant health risks to the population, including the spread of waterborne diseases. Additionally, the introduction of excess nutrients can lead to eutrophication in nearby water bodies, resulting in algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels, harming aquatic life and disrupting local ecosystems. As such, maintaining a septic system is vital not only for individual health but also for protecting the environment from adverse impacts.