Nutrient pollution occurs when excess nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, enter water bodies from sources like agricultural runoff, wastewater, and industrial discharges. These nutrients can lead to harmful algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and create dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive.
The consequences of nutrient pollution can be severe, affecting ecosystems, drinking water quality, and recreational activities. It can also disrupt food chains and harm fish populations, impacting both biodiversity and local economies that rely on healthy water resources. Addressing nutrient pollution requires better management practices and pollution control measures.